What has inspired you to stay at Bernstein for as long as you have?
It’s practically self-explanatory, but we are all about the people at Bernstein. In an industry that is always evolving, markets that are always changing and clients who are diverse and unique in every way, there has been one constant in my career: the incredible people I work with every day. In a city that’s as dynamic and globally diverse as Miami, it’s these people who enable our firm to be uniquely positioned in a highly competitive industry. We truly provide bespoke solutions for those who call Miami their permanent or temporary home. Also, the caliber of intellect, integrity and compassion at Bernstein is unparalleled. Those I have been lucky enough to call colleagues and friends have made Bernstein more than just a firm for me. This firm is a family for me and my family.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of being an advisor to your clients?
As an advisor to wealthy families, overseeing our Miami practice, I’m always looking to make an impact. In my book, impact is defined in many ways, including helping an entrepreneur explore the complexity of a business sale, working with a multigenerational family to define their personal meaning of wealth—or strategizing and exploring new ideas and challenges with colleagues. However, the most fulfilling impact I’ve experienced comes from providing each client or colleague with peace of mind and confidence. I demonstrate on a daily basis my emotional commitment and dedication to their success. Clients and colleagues are not alone on this journey—and they are well aware of it. Every day, I make sure I am ready and available to provide the consistent advice my clients and colleagues need, offer a calming perspective when challenging circumstances arise, and inspire confidence so they know there is someone in their corner that cares. Being someone others can rely on drives me every day.
Who has been the most influential person in your life?
My father was a relatively simple man with just a few pleasures and philosophies. He didn’t say much and wasn’t exactly full of emotion. That said, when it comes to who I am today in terms of the way I approach family members, friends, colleagues and my clients (many of whom have become friends), I think about the basic concepts he instilled in me. Some of the traits that defined my father are as follows: hard work, relentless pursuit of a better self, thirst for knowledge and exploration, owning your responsibilities and, most of all, doing right by people. Perhaps it’s no accident that a firm I have called home for most of my professional career operates in exactly the same way. My father would be pleased.