What has inspired you to stay at Bernstein for as long as you have?
We are all about people at Bernstein. In an industry that is always evolving, with markets that are constantly changing and clients who are diverse and unique in so many ways, there has been one constant in my career: the incredible people I work with every day. It’s these exceptional colleagues who enable our firm to stand out in a highly competitive industry. We provide bespoke solutions for those with the enviable dilemma of material wealth and its corresponding complexity. In addition, I believe 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 and my family.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of being an advisor to your clients?
In addition to my responsibilities to the growth and infrastructure of our business, I also continue to serve as an advisor to wealthy families across the country. As a trusted advisor, 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 confidence. I try to demonstrate on a daily basis my emotional commitment and dedication to their collective 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 they need, offer a calming perspective when challenging circumstances arise and inspire confidence so they know there is someone in their corner who cares. Being a trusted resource 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.