Dave Welling has done it all. From working in executive leadership roles at Charles Schwab and Black Diamond to managing director and co-general manager of SS&C Advent.
“I found a home in an industry that connected with things that are deeply important to me,” the CEO of Colorado-based Mercer Advisors says.
Welling has a guiding compass that points outwards. For him and Mercer, he says that compass points towards their clients and providing the best services possible.
He recalls one of his earlier career highlights, working at Charles Schwab and watching Chuck Schwab make decisions that were difficult. “He would be quiet for 55 or 56 minutes and at the end, he said, ‘There’s only one decision. It’s this because that’s what’s right for the client.’”
Welling reflects that it was great validation of “an organization who could build a great company and still be very client and employee centered.”
“My mission and purpose, as a leader, is to build an organization that's very successful, but to not lose touch of staying client focused,” Welling says. “To do the right thing for clients and build an environment where the team loves to come to work every day. It just seems a lot easier to be successful with clients who love you and [have] people working there who can grow and be successful.”
Welling’s mission and purpose and his guiding compass are just a few reasons why he’s being recognized as an InvestmentNews Awards 2024 Excellence Awardee, with the winners announced on June 20 at 583 Park Avenue, New York City in a glitzy, red carpet ceremony. Click here to register to attend.
Welling is quick to highlight he’s very proud of the work the Mercer team has accomplished for their clients and the industry.
“I've had the opportunity to sit in different parts of this industry, which I think gives me a unique perspective on what we're trying to build and how important it is for us to not only be big, but to do things the right way,” Welling says.
Rajesh Markan earlier this year pleaded guilty to one count of criminal fraud related to his sale of fake investments to 10 clients totaling $2.9 million.
From building trust to steering through emotions and responding to client challenges, new advisors need human skills to shape the future of the advice industry.
"The outcome is correct, but it's disappointing that FINRA had ample opportunity to investigate the merits of clients' allegations in these claims, including the testimony in the three investor arbitrations with hearings," Jeff Erez, a plaintiff's attorney representing a large portion of the Stifel clients, said.
Chair also praised the passage of stablecoin legislation this week.
Maridea Wealth Management's deal in Chicago, Illinois is its first after securing a strategic investment in April.
Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.
Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.
