What’s the best way for people to put their wealth in perspective?
The answer to this dilemma goes beyond numbers, commas and decimal points. Clearly the amount of wealth an individual or family has is important. However, it is their priorities and goals that make their fortune far more impactful than numbers on a bank statement. My team and I partner with clients to help them determine, at a foundational level, their priorities pertaining to their wealth. To do this, we start with a discovery process where we figure out if their goals include philanthropy, family legacy, impact investing or lifestyle ambitions. Our clients and their goals are very diverse, which makes my profession extremely interesting. To assume any of them fit into a “cookie-cutter” template would be a dangerous mistake! Therefore, to really get to know my clients and their complexities, I ask them a deep line of questions and truly listen. Once I fully understand what’s important to them, recommendations can be made accordingly.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of being an advisor to your clients?
I find that I am at my best, and most fulfilled, when I’m educating a client about possible solutions to solve a specific problem. Our clients face all sorts of challenges such as when is the right time to retire, how much should they spend when they do, what is the most effective way to provide philanthropic donations and, most importantly, figuring out the right path to make the greatest impact with their wealth. Bernstein’s industry-leading research enables my team and me to provide provocative advice and potential solutions for our clients. By using the firm’s extensive, cutting-edge resources, my clients are informed, assured that they are spending their wealth wisely, and ahead of the curve. Plus, I believe the more intricate, unique and client-specific the advice, the better the result. This is why I look at each client’s situation like a complex puzzle that needs solving. Every piece, big or small, is taken into account.
What passions do you pursue outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy cycling, spinning, reading and sports. Exercise is extremely important to me in order to maintain both mental and physical health. Nothing is better than riding my bike on the open road to clear my head and just let my brain wander. Sometimes I think about my next trip, the new restaurants I want to try—or I don’t think at all and just take in the scenery. I also try to read at least one new book every month from fiction thrillers by authors like Tom Clancy to the biographies of our country’s Founding Fathers. Getting lost in a good book is a great way to spend an afternoon plus, I studied history in college and still love reading about it. Having played organized baseball throughout college, I can watch just about any baseball game and have a good time. The strategy of the game intrigues me the most of any other sport.