National Director, Planning | Foundation & Institutional Advisory

Christopher Clarkson

Advisor Headshot

Drawing Up a Blueprint to Better the World

Leading the Wealth Strategies team in the western US has taught me a lot. Complex investment and tax strategies are certainly important—as a means to achieve the dreams investors have for themselves, their families and their communities.

What has inspired you to stay at Bernstein for as long as you have?

I’m proud to have been with Bernstein for over 25 years. To be honest, I would have left decades ago if Bernstein accepted anything less than absolute integrity. The firm has always placed its clients’ interests before its own, and it always will—because that is who we are. I’m also impressed by the firm’s unwavering support for diversity and inclusion, another reason we stand out in our industry. When I meet with a client or professional, no matter their race, gender or sexual orientation, I can assure them that Bernstein “walks the walk” in creating an inclusive work environment, impactful investment strategies and public advocacy to allow everyone to thrive and succeed.

Share one of your most memorable professional accomplishments with us.

While I help clients solve a wide variety of wealth planning problems, I’m particularly passionate about partnering with nonprofits and business owners. As a member of Bernstein’s Endowment and Foundation Advisory Services team, I work with donors and nonprofits nationwide to ensure their finances are best positioned to fulfill their mission. Similarly, I’ve advised business owners at every stage, from start-up to sale, and harnessed Bernstein’s research and expertise to help them achieve their vision for success. Most of all, I love it when the planning we do for business owners, especially those who are considering a sale, enables them to channel their energy and resources into charitable endeavors. Helping business owners truly make a difference in the world gives my work depth and purpose.

What passions do you pursue outside of work?

I believe all children deserve access to an education that extends beyond the classroom. Accordingly, I’ve spent six years on the board, including two as president, of a nonprofit that raises funds for public high school extracurricular activities, arts and athletics programs. I want every student to find the sense of belonging and community that I found on my high school baseball team. Whether kids are interested in sports, music, performing arts or any other extracurricular activity, they should have the opportunity to pursue their passion and share it with others. I’m also a life-long baseball fan, with two daughters who played high-school softball, which has made me equally passionate about women’s softball. In my free time, you can often find me watching the Dodgers or a UCLA college softball game.