This is the space where most financial professionals start touting their college degrees, years in the industry, and certifications.  Usually, it’s followed by a mention of their family and a ‘unique’ hobby (which is always golf and/or traveling).  While some of that may be useful, I would rather first share why I am a planner to begin with…Don’t worry, I will include all those facts about myself later so you know I have the experience (and golf handicap) required.

For me, entering the world of financial planning was my big leap of faith. After nearly a decade in the banking industry, I was one small step away from Senior Vice President at one of the nation’s largest banks. On the surface, I was making good money. I was presenting at meetings with the CEO and Board of Directors. I had just obtained what is considered by many the ‘gold standard’ of financial accreditations, the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter. But internally, I was deeply struggling with the meaning behind the work I was performing.  I couldn’t find fulfillment in simply helping the corporation improve its bottom line.  After a close friend approached me with a question about understanding their equity compensation, I finally had my ‘ah-ha’ moment. I was thrilled with the sense of accomplishment that came from explaining the overly complex world of finance in a manner that my friend could actually understand and put into practice.

With the unbelievable support (and a big push) from my wife, I decided to make the jump into financial management. During a stint at another firm, which helped me pick up the intricacies of the industry that could only be obtained through practice, I started to look for how things could be done in a better way.  My values did not align with the firm’s views. My pursuit is not to collect any/all assets from clients or to earn an exorbitant amount of money at all costs.  On the contrary, my goal is to help people understand their finances, make them feel comfortable with where they stand in life and guide them toward their goals. It is to move beyond the transaction and build real relationships. I am a huge believer that taking this approach will produce better results for my clients, myself, and even the image of advisers and my industry. It was after taking the time to reflect on this when I start my own firm. It was amazing to take control and do thing in a manner I truly believed in, but I missed the team dynamic. After nearly three of being solo, I connected with Zach and knew he was not only a personality match but was the perfect counterbalance to my strengths - the new Reach Strategic Wealth was formed.

Now as promised….the facts.

- Graduate of Western New England University with a major in Finance

- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder

- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

- 10+ years experience at HSBC, State Street, Santander, and Citizens Bank

- Wife: Staci and Daughters: Hadley and Hannah

- 16 handicap…I have 2 little girls at home. What did you expect?

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