What inspired you to join Bernstein?
More than 15 years ago when I joined Bernstein, I knew immediately that I had found my place. At the firm, I knew I could grow and prosper as a person and professional. Bernstein’s approach to integrated investment management has always been about more than just managing client money. As a firm, we are enthused by the opportunity to work with our clients, their professionals and our internal advisory groups as one integrated team. Bernstein has truly become a global boutique firm that is always innovating and evolving to keep our clients at the cutting edge of investment management. The end goal is for them to achieve their specific goals. I came to the firm to start my career, however, when I discovered what makes Bernstein special, I decided this is where I want to stay and build my career.
Tell me about the types of clients you work with.
I help people with significant wealth plan for the future. Every one of my clients has a complicated financial life, which is why they rely on me to be the leader of their financial plan. My role entails figuring out what their specific problems are and finding the right solutions for them and their families. Some financial obstacles I help my clients overcome include maximizing the sale of a business or a practice, and all of the details that come along with that sale; navigating charitable giving and how to make gifts as meaningful as possible to both the client and organization; and the most effective way to build wealth for generations to come. When I am asked by my clients to work with the next generation, I know that I did my job well. It is a great honor to be asked and I believe it happens because I am devoted to diligently attending to my clients.
What passions do you pursue outside of work?
My wife Robin and I have an 11-year-old son Ezra and a two-year-old daughter Sybbie. When I am not launching model rockets with my two young children or playing in the kitchen, I spend my time riding my bicycle. I am a competitive cyclist who trains and competes in both mountain bike races and road racing. Speaking to that hobby, a quote that I really, truly live by, and which I believe applies to both family, training and work, is “It never gets easier, you just get faster” by Greg LeMond, a former professional road racing cyclist. This quote has taught me endurance, discipline and that in order to stay in the game you must love it.