What organizational accomplishment are you most proud of this year?

One of the accomplishments I'm most proud of this year is our success in attracting new talent to Alesco Advisors. We've brought in several key hires across various departments, all of whom bring fresh perspectives and specialized expertise.

What are your expectations for the banking and finance industry in Rochester over the next year?

The increased adoption of technology and automation, in Rochester and elsewhere, will undoubtedly persist, offering firms the ability to streamline processes and increase operational efficiencies. While these tools are valuable for handling repetitive tasks and analyzing vast amounts of data, they fall short when it comes to delivering the nuanced decision-making and personalized service that clients expect from a trusted investment advisor.

What have your clients been most concerned about this year?

Election years often bring heightened uncertainty, and this year has been no exception. At Alesco, we've been having meaningful conversations with our clients about the potential impact election outcomes could have on their portfolios. While elections certainly influence policy direction, history shows that market performance is rarely determined solely by election results. Instead of reacting to short-term political developments, our investment philosophy focuses on building resilient portfolios designed to withstand a wide range of market conditions.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

Always put your clients first.

What book that you've read recently would you recommend to others and why?

"Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes" by Morgan Housel. The magic of the book is Housel's ability to illustrate how looking at the past is the most effective way to plan for the future.