Bernstein Deepens Commitment to Growth Markets

Promoted talent to lead Tampa and San Diego markets 

NEW YORK, January 23, 2024 — Bernstein Private Wealth Management (Bernstein), a unit of AllianceBernstein L.P. (NYSE: AB), today announced the promotions and appointment of Managing Directors in two key markets: Blake Poole in Tampa and Kristine Wexler in San Diego. Poole and Wexler, who were also named Principals of the firm acknowledging their excellence in client service, acquisition, and leadership, will be responsible for overseeing private wealth advisory, operations, and growth of the business in their respective regions.

The appointments come as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to be best positioned to support the changing face of wealth, the fastest-growing wealth markets in the United States, and emerging geographies of their ultrahigh-net-worth clients.

“I am thrilled to announce the promotions of Blake Poole and Kristine Wexler to Managing Directors. Their extensive experience and proven track record of success both within and outside of the firm will be invaluable as we continue to grow our presence in these vital and rapidly evolving markets,” said Rick Meyers, Head of Client and Advisory at Bernstein. “Kristine and Blake have demonstrated a passion for the sophisticated white-glove client experience that sets Bernstein apart in the marketplace, and I am confident that they will take their regions to new heights.”

Bernstein’s Tampa office is one of the fastest-growing markets for the firm. The office has served Central Florida for over 20 years. Poole brings with him 15 years of experience, including over five years of Bernstein tenure. Prior to Bernstein, Poole served at the Kraft Heinz Company and J.P. Morgan’s Private Bank. A fifth-generation Floridian, he is very active in his community and serves on the boards of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation, Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative, and the Florida Venture Forum. Poole attended Davidson College and received a master’s from the Harvard Kennedy School. “It’s an honor to be leading an office in my home state. There is a palpable buzz in Central Florida with the incredible growth and economic opportunity that has evolved over the last four years,” said Poole. “We are very committed to the region, our best-in-class team is poised for exceptional growth, and I am looking forward to the road ahead.”

San Diego has a team of 15 experienced client-facing professionals including five advisors with a combined tenure of 54 years. Wexler, with more than 24 years of wealth management experience, joins the San Diego office from Bernstein in Chicago where, as an advisor, she had a special focus on female wealth creators. Prior to Bernstein she was at Bessemer Trust in New York and Chicago. Wexler is an active member of Chief and is an animal lover—she was formerly on the board of PAWs Chicago, has two dogs and a cat, and is looking forward to becoming actively involved in an animal nonprofit in San Diego. Wexler attended Syracuse University and received her MBA from the University of Chicago. “I am delighted to be leading our talented team in San Diego,” said Wexler. “We are primed for further growth, and I am energized by the many opportunities that our region holds. For example, with the defense, life sciences, and biotech sectors thriving locally, we are uniquely positioned to address the complexities facing industry executives, entrepreneurs, and their families. My team and I are excited to be at the center of these conversations and decisions today and as our clients look to build a more purposeful future.”