Our People
The Team to Support You.
Your discerning needs demand a high level of care and attention. Experience a better approach to wealth management with a nationwide team dedicated to delivering on our promise of enhancing your financial life.
Leadership
Michelle Knight
Nicole E. LaChapelle
Steve Reder
Kristin Fazio
Joseph E. Powers
Don MacKenzie
Venkat Patla
Carlos Sotero
Rick Winter
Chief Executive Officer & Chief Economist
Michelle Knight
Michelle Knight serves as the chief executive officer of the firm. Previously, she was the president and chief economist for Ropes Wealth Advisors, the family office division of RWA Wealth Partners. As CEO, she is responsible for day-to-day management of the firm and executing its long-term strategic plan. As the firm’s chief economist, she’s responsible for apprising clients of global economic and market activity. Michelle is a frequent contributor to Financial Advisor magazine and Private Asset Management magazine, and she has been quoted in Bloomberg, Thomson Reuters, the Boston Business Journal, Forbes and The Boston Globe.
In the past, Michelle served as chief investment officer for Ropes Wealth and chief economist for Ropes & Gray LLP. She was chief economist and managing director of fixed income for Silver Bridge Advisors (now Boston Private Wealth) and head of fixed income at Atlantic Trust (now CIBC Wealth). Before joining Atlantic Trust, Michelle was an analyst and assistant portfolio manager at J.P. Morgan Investment Management in New York.
Michelle earned an MBA, an MSF and a B.A. from Boston College, where she graduated summa cum laude and held the distinction of Presidential Scholar. In 2009, the Boston Business Journal1 named her one of its 40 Under 40 in recognition of her accomplishments as a corporate and civic leader.
Michelle is a Boston College trustee and Investment Committee member, Boston Latin School vice chair of the Board of Trustees and Investment Committee member, Dedham Country Day School trustee and Investment Committee chair, Rosie’s Place trustee and Investment Committee member, trustee and treasurer of the Leventhal Map & Education Center of the Boston Public Library, and Investment Committee member for the endowment of the Archdiocese of Boston. She is a volunteer and member of the Boston Economic Club, the Boston College Alumni Association and Council for Women, the Boston Children’s Hospital League, and the Catholic Schools Foundation Inner-City Scholarship Fund. Michelle also teaches religious education at Holy Name Church in West Roxbury, serves as the treasurer of Holy Name Cub Scout Pack 3, and is a parent volunteer with the Guild of St. Irene at St. Sebastian’s School in Needham and the Parent Association of Dedham Country Day School.
Michelle resides in West Roxbury, MA, with her family, including three sons who are the joy of her life.
1 The 40 Under 40 list is compiled by the Boston Business Journal. Annually, the Boston Business Journal seeks nominations to recognize 40 of Boston’s best and brightest young professionals. Nominees are evaluated based on their achievements, innovations and leadership skills in their fields as well as their civic involvement and accomplishments. It is not known how many nominees were considered in 2009. Winners in any particular year cannot win the 40 Under 40 recognition again. No fees were paid by any individual or third party in order for an individual to be nominated or selected for this recognition. The results of the list should not be interpreted as reflecting the approval or disapproval of the advisor’s services by clients, and the recognition is not intended to be indicative of or a promise of future performance.
President of Family Office
Nicole E. LaChapelle
Nicole LaChapelle serves as RWA’s President of Family Office and brings over 15 years of client service experience and expertise to this role, working together with her team of client service officers, specialists, and administrators to design and deliver the solutions that will best position clients to achieve their goals as they navigate their personal financial journey. Nicole is a member of RWA’s Business Oversight Committee and is a key contributor to the firm’s business development and strategic planning initiatives. Nicole also continues to lead several of the firm’s long-standing client relationships, seeking to deliver an exceptional client experience along the way.
Prior to her current role, Nicole was the Client Service Director for RWA. Before joining RWA, Nicole spent more than 10 years with Ropes & Gray LLP, initially as an estate settlement administrator and subsequently as Manager of Client Services. She began her career with MFS Investment Management as a retirement plan specialist.
Nicole earned an MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business. Her undergraduate degree in business administration, with a minor in economics, was also awarded by Boston University. She received her paralegal certificate from Northeastern University in 2008.
In 2017, Nicole was the recipient of Ropes & Gray’s prestigious ACE award (Acclaiming and Celebrating Excellence) for her tremendous individual contributions and leadership to the Private Client Group and RWA.
Nicole serves on the Board of Advisors for the South Boston Neighborhood House (“The Ollie”), and enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as well as traveling as often as her schedule permits.
President of Private Wealth
Steve Reder
Steve Reder serves as President of Private Wealth for RWA Wealth Partners, where he oversees the implementation of financial plans for RWA clients. In this role, he leads our team of wealth advisors and shapes the advice, guidance and caring support our clients receive. He also works directly with clients, solving complex financial planning problems and helping to integrate personal financial plans with investment, tax and estate planning. By leveraging his extensive experience, analytical skills and deep empathy, Steve enhances the experience of all our clients.
Previously, Steve was a vice president at Goldman Sachs, where he had a joint role as region manager of Goldman Sachs Personal Financial Management and head of FinLife, Goldman Sachs’ white-label wealth management offering. He joined Goldman Sachs through the acquisition of United Capital Financial Advisors, where he was a founding partner of FinLife, a business he initially launched while president, COO and CCO of Lenox Wealth Management. Prior to this, Steve held various positions with PNC Bank and PNC Investments.
Steve holds a B.S. in accounting from the University of Cincinnati.
He lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his family, including two children who are the love of his life. Steve enjoys traveling with his wife, rooting for the Bengals and Reds, and spending time with family and friends.
Chief Compliance Officer
Kristin Fazio
Kristin Fazio serves as chief compliance officer and principal of RWA Wealth Partners. As a key member of the firm’s leadership team, Kristin provides thoughtful advice around strategic decisions, risk management, business efficiencies, and business development, and she is responsible for leading and overseeing the firm’s compliance program. She works closely with functional leaders with the goal of providing the highest level of fiduciary care and service to our clients.
Prior to her role at RWA Wealth Partners, Kristin was the chief compliance officer of Ropes Wealth Advisors since the firm opened its doors in 2015, where she was responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and monitoring the firm’s compliance program; integrating industry best practices; and leading in-house compliance education efforts across the firm. She was a vital contributor to the firm’s strategic initiatives and a member of the Investment Policy Committee and Business Oversight Committee. Before joining Ropes Wealth Advisors, Kristin served as the chief compliance officer for Silver Bridge Capital Management LLC and the director of risk management for Silver Bridge Advisors LLC (collectively “Silver Bridge”). Prior to joining Silver Bridge, Kristin was a senior consultant at Navigant Consulting, Inc.
Kristin graduated cum laude from the Wallace E. Carroll School of Management at Boston College with a B.S. in economics and business administration.
Kristin resides in Marblehead, MA, with her husband and five children. Outside of work, she serves as coordinator, Uber driver, and cheerleader for her kids as they navigate their adolescent years. During the winter, she cherishes spending weekends in the White Mountains with her family.
Chief Investment Officer
Joseph E. Powers
Joseph (JP) Powers serves as chief investment officer for RWA Wealth Partners, where he’s responsible for overseeing and implementing the firm’s overall investment strategy. In this role, he leads the investment team in making asset allocation decisions and directing investment and manager selection on behalf of all clients. JP also works directly with clients, apprising them of global economic and market activity and its implications for their specific and customized investment strategies. JP leverages his analytical abilities to drive key elements of the firm’s investment technology platform, including researching and implementing new systems and software to continually improve the efficiency of the investment trading platform and enhance the client experience of performance reporting.
JP chairs the Investment Policy Committee and is also a member of the Business Oversight Committee.
Previously, JP was portfolio manager and director at Ropes Wealth Advisors. Prior to Ropes Wealth, he was the director of fixed income for Silver Bridge Advisors (now Boston Private Wealth). As director of fixed income, JP focused on fixed income portfolio construction, research, and trading in both the taxable and tax-exempt fixed income sectors. Before joining the fixed income team, JP spent several years supporting the company’s equity research efforts as an analyst for the technology, telecommunications and consumer staples sectors while overseeing the firm’s equity trading desk. JP began his career with State Street Corporation.
JP earned an MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business and a B.S. in business administration from the University of New Hampshire. He was the winner of the Sandra A. F. Harper award from the BU Questrom program, which honors the student who best exemplifies community contribution and leadership within the graduating class.
JP resides in Dover, MA, with his wife and young son, and he enjoys sports, travel, and spending time with his family and friends. He divides his time between Boston and New Hampshire whenever possible.
Chief Financial Officer
Don MacKenzie
Don MacKenzie is the chief financial officer of RWA Wealth Partners. He joined the firm in August 2024 and is partnering with the CEO and the leadership team to grow the business organically and through acquisitions.
Don has demonstrated expertise in professionalizing operations, building teams and supporting growth-oriented leadership. His experience spans various industries, including manufacturing, distribution, financial services and business services companies. Don has a proven track record of optimizing financial infrastructure, improving operations, building, mentoring and leading strong teams in fast-paced, demanding environments.
Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Don held various executive positions in private-equity-backed companies in business services, technology, healthcare and professional services. He spent several years managing two international venture capital firms. Prior to his first operating company role, Don held management positions with Big Four CPA firms in the UK and US. Throughout his 35-year career, Don has been responsible for finance and many other functions, including HR, marketing, sales, IT and operations.
Don earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and is a UK chartered accountant with over 30 years of membership in the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Chief Marketing Officer
Venkat Patla
Venkat brings a wealth of branding expertise cultivated in both agency and corporate environments with substantial experience in financial services and wealth management marketing. He joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2023 to elevate the brand and overall client experience.
In his prior role as the senior creative director at Edelman Financial Engines, he led the brand strategy that transformed the company’s image into a bold, modern wealth management brand.
At UBS he led the marketing for private wealth management, the client digital app and numerous other initiatives across all business units.
Venkat holds a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Osmania University and an M.S. in advertising and communications from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Chief Technology Officer
Carlos Sotero
Carlos serves as chief technology officer of RWA Wealth Partners. He joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2023 to lead its technology and digital transformation strategy. Previously, Carlos was CIO of Allstate Identity Protection. He spent most of his career at Motorola Solutions, where he held technology leadership and engineering roles in healthcare/wellness, global sales and public safety solutions.
Carlos has over 25 years of experience in technology with a track record of successfully implementing flexible technology architectures to enable business outcomes. He is known for scaling for growth while reducing costs, expanding revenue and building highly effective teams.
Carlos is a veteran of the USMC. He holds an MBA and a B.S. in management information systems and finance from the University of Arizona. He resides in Scottsdale, AZ with his wife and two sons.
Chief People Officer
Rick Winter
As chief people officer of RWA Wealth Partners, Rick Winter is responsible for implementing transformational human resource strategies that support the firm’s present and future goals. In this role, Rick works to ensure the firm’s human resource and workforce operations departments run smoothly, and he is responsible for talent strategy, compensation and incentive programs, payroll, benefit and retirement planning, training and career development, performance management programs, employee relations, and managing all human resources and workforce operations personnel. Additionally, Rick advises senior management on the implications of legal issues related to human resource policies. He takes a leadership role in developing an engaging culture that enables employees to grow and succeed within the organization. Rick brings a demonstrated history of strong leadership, business strategy, team building, employee relations, and training and development skills, collaborating with owner-operator, private equity, and public companies.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2024, Rick held various executive positions leading the human resources function for companies in the e-commerce, food manufacturing, real estate, and retail sectors.
Rick earned a B.S. from Florida International University and his M.B.A. with a leadership focus from Southern New Hampshire University. In 2017, he completed the Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School.
Private wealth team - leadership
Steve Reder
Andrew Busa
Megan Higgins
Rawson Hubbell
Bob Johnson
President of Private Wealth
Steve Reder
Steve Reder serves as President of Private Wealth for RWA Wealth Partners, where he oversees the implementation of financial plans for RWA clients. In this role, he leads our team of wealth advisors and shapes the advice, guidance and caring support our clients receive. He also works directly with clients, solving complex financial planning problems and helping to integrate personal financial plans with investment, tax and estate planning. By leveraging his extensive experience, analytical skills and deep empathy, Steve enhances the experience of all our clients.
Previously, Steve was a vice president at Goldman Sachs, where he had a joint role as region manager of Goldman Sachs Personal Financial Management and head of FinLife, Goldman Sachs’ white-label wealth management offering. He joined Goldman Sachs through the acquisition of United Capital Financial Advisors, where he was a founding partner of FinLife, a business he initially launched while president, COO and CCO of Lenox Wealth Management. Prior to this, Steve held various positions with PNC Bank and PNC Investments.
Steve holds a B.S. in accounting from the University of Cincinnati.
He lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his family, including two children who are the love of his life. Steve enjoys traveling with his wife, rooting for the Bengals and Reds, and spending time with family and friends.
Director of Financial Planning
Andrew Busa
Andrew Busa serves as the director of financial planning at RWA Wealth Partners. In this role, Andrew collaborates closely with RWA Wealth Partners’ wealth advisors to design tailored strategies that address each client’s distinct financial needs and goals. He has particular interest in behavioral finance and effective planning for the different stages of life.
Andrew joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2018. He began his financial career as a portfolio analyst at Wingate Wealth Advisors and subsequently decided to focus exclusively on personal financial planning.
Andrew graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a B.S. in economics and earned an M.S. in personal financial planning from the College for Financial Planning. He holds the Master Planner Advanced StudiesTM designation, is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, and also holds a Certified College Financial Consultant credential.
Andrew resides with his wife and dog, Dante, in Woburn, MA. He enjoys playing guitar, reading, and spending time with his friends and family.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Director of Private Wealth Client Service
Megan Higgins
Megan started her career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2007. As the director of client service, she is responsible for managing the client service team and ensuring quality control and continuity of policies and procedures to deliver top-notch service to clients. Megan also has the Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM (CRPC®) designation. She lives in Norfolk, MA, with her husband and her Australian shepherd, Basil. Megan likes outdoor activities such as running or kayaking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Director of Estate and Trust Services
Rawson Hubbell
Rawson has over 25 years of experience working with executives, business owners and retirees on issues around wealth transfer, trusts and estate planning. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners as Director of Estate and Trust Services in 2023, Rawson was a private wealth strategist at a large national financial services provider, where he worked with many of the firm’s largest clients on similar planning issues.
He obtained his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 1999, an M.A in Asian studies and a J.D. from Washington University, and a B.A. in economics from Middlebury College.
One of Rawson’s proudest professional achievements was his early facility with a potent tax-saving strategy using intentionally defective grantor trusts. This guidance helped save his clients hundreds of millions of dollars in transfer taxes while enabling them to make impactful donations to their chosen philanthropic causes.
Rawson is a 20-year rider in the Pan-Massachusetts Challenge and is actively involved with the Epiphany School in Dorchester, MA, where he has served as treasurer and a member of the board of trustees. He enjoys cycling, tennis and pickleball—all with friends, and especially with family.
Head of Tax Services
Bob Johnson
Bob has 15 years of experience in the tax and accounting services field. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Bob served as a tax director for Marcum LLP, a national CPA firm, providing tax compliance and planning for a wide range of clients, with a particular focus on the real estate industry.
He finds his work especially rewarding when he can help make clients’ tax preparation as painless as possible, given that it’s not always an experience people look forward to.
Bob is a CPA and a member of the MassCPAs and AICPA. He received a master’s in taxation (MST) from Bentley University and a B.A. in accounting from Assumption College.
Advisors
Christopher Hagan
Stephen Johnson
Joshua Jones
Elizabeth Kesselman
Robert Lepson
Dina Milne
Todd Peters
John Puetz
Bradley Sharp
Rick Winters
Kari Wolfson
Ryan Christensen
John Kennedy
Diana Linn CFP®, CDFA®
David Mastroianni, CFP®, AWMA®
Jeff Menning
Michael Russo
James Verity
Matthew Wyllie
James Altschuler
Cody Carlson
Ryan Collette
Ryan Drews
Brennan Foust
Laura Hearn
Stephen I. Lee
Fran Lee
Catherine Ocampo
Tim Mazanec
Matthew Shumaker
Geoffrey Turner
Alden Witman
Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Christopher Hagan
Christopher (“Chris”) Hagan is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. In his role, Chris meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his clients’ investment objectives; and provides ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations and individual client financial goals.
Chris joined RWA Wealth Partners upon its acquisition of Kobren Insight Management (Kobren) in 2011. Prior to joining Kobren in 2009, he worked at Fidelity Investments in both San Francisco and Boston as the director of executive services, educating and guiding corporate executives on equity compensation exercise strategies.
Chris is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Chris earned an MBA from the University of San Francisco and a B.A. from Saint Michael’s College. He also holds a Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM (CRPC®) designation and the Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFCTM) designation.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Chris Hagan was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2013-2025 The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the Wealth Advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Stephen Johnson
Stephen (“Steve”) Johnson is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Steve provides personalized financial guidance to clients to help them achieve their long-term financial objectives. By working closely with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners, Steve provides a comprehensive and coordinated approach to managing and growing his clients’ wealth. His goal is to provide holistic advice that not only addresses immediate financial needs but also plans for the future, offering peace of mind and financial security for generations to come. Steve is also a portfolio manager for RWA Capital, a division of RWA Wealth Partners. In his role as portfolio manager, Steve manages fundamental and quantitative investment strategies.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2014, Steve spent 14 years at Charles Schwab, most recently as a private client consultant overseeing individual clients’ planning, portfolio design and allocation strategies. Steve has been quoted by Boston magazine, The Boston Globe, USA Today and The Washington Post. He is also a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Steve graduated from the University of Vermont with a B.A., earned a J.D. magna cum laude from the University of Maine School of Law, and is admitted to the Massachusetts Bar. He is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.
Steve is an avid baseball fan and enjoys spending time with his family. He resides in Leicester, MA, with his wife and daughter.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Steve Johnson was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2012 to 2015 and 2018 to 2024. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Joshua Jones
Joshua (“Josh”) Jones is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Josh has been passionate in helping clients achieve their financial goals since 2005. He specializes in recommending suitable investment strategies and providing comprehensive financial planning solutions to help individuals, families and institutions make smart financial decisions to help secure their future.
Josh is a multi-year winner of Boston magazine’s Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
A graduate of the University of Vermont, Josh earned a B.A. in political science with a minor in business. He is also an alum of Phillips Exeter Academy.
Josh resides in Princeton, MA, with his wife and three sons. Outside of the office, Josh enjoys the outdoors and spending time with his family.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Josh Jones was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2013 to 2020 and 2022 to 2023. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Elizabeth Kesselman
Elizabeth (“Liz”) Kesselman is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. She has more than 25 years of financial services experience focusing on individuals, multigenerational families, foundations and retirement plans, and she offers expertise in the area of equity compensation. In her role, she meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements her clients’ investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations and individual client objectives. Liz and her team work closely with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to provide clients with a comprehensive and seamless experience.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2004, she served as vice president at Fisher Investments, where she provided tailored financial solutions to clients. Additionally, she held the role of regional vice president at Pioneer Investment Management, working directly with clients to meet their financial needs.
Liz earned her B.A. from Bates College and attended Phillips Academy Andover. She holds the Equity Compensation Associate (ECA) designation and was named to Forbes’ list of Top Women Wealth Advisors in 2020 and Forbes’ Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.*
*The Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors and the Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State selection process was conducted by SHOOK Research. A fee was not paid to be placed on these lists. The awards do not consider portfolio performance and do not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor are they indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on these awards, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Robert Lepson
Robert (“Bob”) Lepson serves as a partner and senior wealth advisor with RWA Wealth Partners. He has more than 30 years of experience helping individuals and families define their fiscal goals and make smart financial decisions. Bob is passionate about financial planning and has extensive experience in retirement income planning, risk-controlled portfolio design and charitable giving strategies. He partners with experts across the firm to provide clients with holistic wealth management services to help obtain the best possible outcomes.
Prior to joining the firm, Bob was vice president and regional planning consultant at Fidelity Investments, where he helped steer clients through the complexities of financial planning. He also worked for Fidelity Investments Life Insurance as a branch insurance specialist, where he provided clients with education and guidance on various life insurance products.
Bob is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Advisor award.* In addition, he has been featured in prominent publications such as The Boston Globe, Financial Advisor magazine, and The Wall Street Journal. Bob has also hosted an online finance forum on Boston.com.
Bob earned a B.A. from Brandeis University in American studies, and he is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, a NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor and a member of the Financial Planning Association.
Bob resides in Brookline, MA, with his wife and their Siberian husky, Luna. He has two adult children.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Bob Lepson was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2015 to 2025. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Dina Milne
Dina Milne is a partner and senior wealth advisor with RWA Wealth Partners. She works closely with clients to recommend suitable investment strategies and helps develop customized financial plans that are designed to address each client’s unique situation. Dina and her team collaborate closely with experts within the firm with the goal of always providing clients unparalleled service and an exceptional overall experience.
Before joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2014, Dina lived in Canada and worked as an account manager at the Royal Bank of Canada and as a financial advisor at Edward Jones. Her diverse background includes extensive international experience, as she has lived and worked abroad in New Zealand, Italy and Egypt. Prior to her career in the financial services industry, Dina taught primary and secondary students in the United Arab Emirates.
Dina earned a B.A. in political science from the American University in Cairo, Egypt. She is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and a member of the Financial Planning Association. She is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Dina enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. She resides in Hudson, MA, with her husband.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Dina Milne was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2022 to 2025. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Todd Peters
Todd Peters is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. In his role, Todd meets with current and potential clients to establish and implement investment and financial planning strategies based on their unique goals. Using his expertise to analyze each client’s financial picture through a holistic framework, Todd assesses specific needs and strategically plans for their near- and long-term time horizons.
Todd began his career in the financial services industry in 1982 and joined RWA Wealth Partners through its acquisition of Kobren Insight Management in 2011. Prior to joining Kobren Insight Management in 1993, he spent six years as a registered representative for Fidelity and four years as a compliance specialist with Financial Services Corporation.
Todd earned his B.A. in finance from the University of Toledo. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) certification and is a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society Boston.
Todd resides in Wellesley, MA, with his family.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
John Puetz
John Puetz is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. John works primarily with high-net-worth individuals and families, helping them achieve their financial goals by providing comprehensive wealth planning solutions in close coordination with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners.
John joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2023 upon the acquisition of his firm, LeJeune Puetz Investment Counsel, which he cofounded in 1997.
John graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a B.S. in business administration, concentrating in accounting. He earned an M.S. in management with a concentration in finance from the J. L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.
He lives in Traverse City, MI, with his wife, son and daughter. He is active in the Catholic community, serving on many boards and committees in the area. He also enjoys Notre Dame football, golfing and other outdoor activities in northern Michigan.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Bradley Sharp
Bradley (“Brad”) Sharp is a partner and senior wealth advisor with RWA Wealth Partners. He has been working with high-net-worth individuals and families for over 25 years. Brad brings a deep understanding of the intricate financial planning needs unique to clients with substantial wealth. He partners with our investment team to manage clients’ wealth holistically, with a focus on growth and preservation. By collaborating closely with our tax team, Brad also integrates customized solutions for complex tax planning needs.
Prior to joining the firm in 2008, Brad spent 12 years at Fidelity Investments, including as vice president and senior account executive in the private client group where he oversaw client relationships totaling more than $1.4 billion.
Brad earned a B.A. in economics from Colorado State University. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, a member of the Financial Planning Association, and a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Brad lives with his wife and two children in Waban, MA. He enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Brad Sharp was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager in 2012, 2013, 2015, and each year from 2017-2024. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the Wealth Advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor
Rick Winters
Frederick (“Rick”) Winters is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Rick leverages more than two decades of experience to deliver comprehensive financial planning solutions for individuals and families with complex planning needs. With his team, Rick meets with clients to review their financial planning needs and communicate the firm’s investment strategies. He takes great pride in helping clients reach their long-term financial goals.
Rick joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2001, previously having worked at American Express Financial Advisors. He is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Rick earned his B.S. in business administration with a concentration in marketing and finance from Marist College. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, received a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠ designation and holds an Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorSM credential. He is also a member of the MA Financial Planning Association.
Rick supports Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay and NephCure Kidney International. He resides in Concord, MA, with his wife, son and daughter. In his spare time, Rick enjoys cooking, indoor rock climbing, coaching his daughter’s softball team, running, golfing and skiing. Originally from New Jersey, he is happiest when spending time with his family at the Jersey Shore.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Rick Winters was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2014 to 2024. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Kari Wolfson
Kari Wolfson is a partner and senior wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Kari plays an integral role in helping individuals and families build, sustain, and transfer their wealth according to their specific goals and needs. With a deep commitment to personalized service, Kari works closely with her clients on various aspects of financial planning, including philanthropy and next-generation planning, to ensure each client’s wealth strategy aligns with their unique values and goals.
Kari joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2011 after relocating to the Boston area from Chicago, where she previously worked as a registered client service associate for Astor Capital Management.
Kari earned her B.S. in finance from DePaul University. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and earned her Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorSM designation. She is a member of the Financial Planning Association. In addition, Kari is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Kari resides in Needham, MA, with her husband, two sons, and their sheepadoodle, Bauer. She enjoys traveling and cheering on her children at their sporting events and also cheering on her home team, the Iowa Hawkeyes.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Kari Wolfson was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2022 to 2025. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Ryan Christensen
Ryan Christensen is a partner and wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. He is responsible for maintaining client relationships, recommending suitable investment strategies, and developing tailored financial plans. He provides comprehensive wealth planning in coordination with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners.
Ryan joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2012 and has held the positions of account executive, account manager and client service associate. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Ryan was a registered representative at New England Financial Group, LLC.
Ryan received a B.S. in finance from Roger Williams University, where he played on the lacrosse team all four years. He is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
When he’s not at the office, Ryan is out on the golf course, in the boxing gym, or at home in Marion, MA, with his wife and their two daughters.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Ryan Christensen was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2021 to 2025. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
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John Kennedy
John Kennedy serves as a wealth advisor for RWA Wealth Partners. John plays an integral role in understanding and servicing our clients’ individual planning needs. He is passionate about guiding clients through financial decisions to help best position them for the future. John partners with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners, as he strongly believes that all facets of a client’s financial life should be addressed.
Prior to joining the firm in 2009, John was a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley, where he worked with individuals to develop and implement personalized financial plans and investment solutions. He also worked at Fidelity Investments for more than eight years supporting registered investment advisors.
John is a U.S. Navy veteran and graduated from Syracuse University with a B.S. in finance. He sits on the board of directors for RIVMA Companion Animal Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides access to compassionate veterinary care for low-income pet owners.
John resides in Providence, RI, with his wife and dog, and the occasional foster dog.
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Diana Linn CFP®, CDFA®
Diana Linn is a partner and wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. She works closely with clients to recommend suitable investment strategies and helps develop customized financial plans that are designed to address each client’s unique situation. Diana is passionate about helping women navigate the financial complexities of divorce, providing invaluable support during what is often a highly stressful and challenging time.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners, Diana cultivated her expertise in client service while working at Income Research + Management and Windhaven Investments.
Diana graduated from Virginia Tech with a B.S. in biology and chemistry. Diana is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and holds the Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® certification. She is a multi-year recipient of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Diana is an avid runner and enjoys teaching group fitness classes and spending time with her family. She resides in Framingham, MA, with her husband and two sons.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Diana Linn was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager in 2023 and 2025. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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David Mastroianni, CFP®, AWMA®
David Mastroianni is a partner and wealth advisor with RWA Wealth Partners. He works with clients to develop a cohesive strategy to help meet their most complex financial needs and goals. David is passionate about financial planning and fostering strong, personal relationships. David collaborates closely with experts within the firm and is dedicated to providing clients the highest level of service and an exceptional experience.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2014, David gained valuable knowledge in previous positions as a registered representative with John Hancock Financial Network, as an investment consultant at FactSet Research Systems, and as a financial associate with LPL Financial.
David graduated from Babson College and earned a B.S. in business management, concentrating in finance. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and holds the Accredited Wealth Management Advisor™ designation. David is an active board member of the NexGen committee of the New England chapter of the Financial Planning Association. He has also served as a guest lecturer at various colleges and universities. In 2023, David is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
In his spare time, David enjoys traveling, cooking, admiring vintage cars and cheering on his favorite Boston sports teams. He resides in the Charlestown neighborhood of Boston with his wife and their dalmatian, Santino.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. David Mastroianni was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager in 2023-2025. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the Wealth Advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Jeff Menning
Jeffrey (“Jeff”) is a partner and wealth advisor for RWA Wealth Partners. Jeff works directly with clients to gain a clear understanding of their complex financial needs in order to implement investment solutions designed to meet their long-term financial goals. Jeff and his team collaborate with experts across the firm to provide comprehensive solutions and a seamless experience. He takes great pride in helping clients accomplish their long-term financial goals.
Jeff began his career in the financial services industry in 1997. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, he held positions at Fidelity Investments and Ameritrade, where he helped high-net-worth individuals and families achieve their financial objectives. Jeff is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.
Originally from Chicago, he now calls Costa Mesa, CA, home, where he lives with his wife, son, and their beloved standard poodle, Charlie. Beyond cherishing family time, he finds joy in hiking, reading, paddle boarding and exploring new destinations.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Michael Russo
Michael (“Mike”) Russo is a Partner and Wealth Advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. In his role, Mike provides comprehensive wealth planning in coordination with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners. With a deep commitment to personalized service, Mike implements each client’s investment objectives by providing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and long-term financial goals.
Mike graduated from Hobart College with a B.A. in Economics and played four years of collegiate hockey. He is also a 2025 recipient of Boston magazine’s Five Star Wealth Manager award. *
Mike is a lifelong Massachusetts resident and currently resides in South Boston, MA, with his fiancé. Outside of work he enjoys hiking, playing hockey, and spending time with his family and Goldendoodle.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. The award was issued on 2/1/2025 for the time period 4/10/24 through 10/31/24. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the Wealth Advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page.
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James Verity
James (“Jamie”) Verity is a partner and wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. He works closely with individuals and families to implement personal and comprehensive financial planning solutions. Jamie is passionate about providing guidance and support tailored to seniors, including managing health care costs, estate planning, understanding retirement options, and addressing the emotional and social aspects of aging.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2005, Jamie was a vice president and investment center manager for Charles Schwab. He also served clients as a registered representative at Olde Brokerage.
Jamie earned a B.A. in business with a minor in economics from Plymouth State University. He holds a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® designation and is a multi-time winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Jamie resides in Medford, MA, with his wife and children. In his free time, he enjoys spending time in New Hampshire with his family.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. James Verity was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2013 to 2024. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Matthew Wyllie
Matthew (“Matt”) Wyllie is a partner and wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Matt plays a key role in helping clients achieve their financial goals by providing personalized advice and strategies. His approach involves regularly meeting with clients to assess their financial planning needs and implementing investment strategies that align with their objectives. Matt takes pride in building strong relationships with his clients. His dedication to understanding each client’s financial picture enables him to provide customized advice designed to achieve their financial goals.
Matt joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2005 after serving as a financial planner with American Express/Ameriprise Financial, where he worked with individual clients to implement personal and comprehensive financial planning solutions. He is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Matt graduated from Bryant College with a B.S. in business administration with a concentration in finance. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and also earned his Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorSM designation.
He lives with his wife and daughter in Acton, MA, along with their lovable Redbone coonhound, Charlie.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Matt Wyllie was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2022 to 2025. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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James Altschuler
James (“Jim”) Altschuler is a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Jim provides comprehensive wealth plans in coordination with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners, and he is responsible for developing customized solutions to help individuals and families realize their near- and long-term financial goals.
Jim joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2022 upon the acquisition of his firm, Altschuler Financial Services, where he’d served as the chief investment officer since 1994. Prior to that, he held several positions in the accounting field and started his career at Arthur Andersen as a tax accountant.
He earned a B.S. in accounting from Bryant University and holds a CPA designation. Jim is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.
He and his wife reside in Lexington, MA. He enjoys spending time with his family and playing tennis with his wife.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Cody Carlson
Cody Carlson is a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners based in Chicago. In his role, Cody provides comprehensive and customized wealth plans to clients. He works in close collaboration with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to help clients achieve their unique long-term goals.
Prior to joining the firm in 2022, Cody spent more than five years at Fidelity Investments, where he was a relationship manager and most recently a financial consultant. In these roles, he created and implemented financial plans and deepened client relationships.
Cody graduated from Eastern Illinois University, where he earned a B.S. in finance. Cody obtained his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification in 2022.
In his free time, Cody enjoys trail running, archery, fishing, and spending time with his friends and family. He was born and raised in the Chicagoland area, where he currently resides.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Ryan Collette
Ryan Collette serves as a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. In his role, Ryan meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his clients’ investment objectives; and provides ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations and long-term financial goals.
Prior to joining the firm in 2015, Ryan was employed as a financial advisor at Wescom Financial Services and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith.
Ryan earned his B.S. in finance from Chapman University.
Ryan resides in Mission Viejo, CA. Outside of the office, Ryan enjoys hiking, camping, paddle boarding, and snowboarding with family and friends.
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Ryan Drews
Ryan Drews serves as a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Ryan has more than 18 years of industry experience working with clients on customized financial planning and investment management solutions. In his role, he meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his clients’ investment objectives; and provides ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations and targeted financial goals.
Prior to joining the firm in 2023, Ryan held positions with several firms, including director of investments and financial planning at Carrera Capital Advisors and vice president, financial consultant with Charles Schwab. Ryan also spent over six years with Fidelity Investments as a vice president, financial consultant.
Ryan earned his doctorate in business administration in finance from Liberty University, where he focused on behavioral finance. Additionally, he holds an MBA and MSF from Walsh College and also earned a B.A. in economics from Oberlin College. Ryan is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.
In his free time, Ryan enjoys spending time with his wife, son and three daughters, as well as coaching in local sports leagues for his kids. He also teaches graduate-level coursework in finance at Walsh College.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Brennan Foust
Brennan Foust is a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. Brennan provides comprehensive financial planning to individuals and families in coordination with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners. Brennan plays an integral role in helping clients build, sustain, and transfer their wealth according to their specific goals and needs. Brennan began his career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2019 as a relationship manager, where he was responsible for delivering individualized and comprehensive financial planning solutions. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Brennan worked as an investment analyst at Stevens Foster Financial Advisors, a Minnesota-based advisory firm.
Brennan graduated from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management with a B.S. in finance. He obtained his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification in 2024.
Brennan currently resides in San Francisco with his wife, Diana, and is an avid sportsman who particularly enjoys soccer, golf and cycling.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Laura Hearn
Laura Hearn serves as a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. In her role, Laura meets with current and potential clients to establish and implement investment and financial planning strategies based on their unique goals. Using her expertise to analyze each client’s financial picture through a holistic framework, Laura assesses specific needs and designs plans for their near- and long-term time horizon.
Laura graduated with a B.S. in economics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and has obtained the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) certification through the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Always up for an adventure, Laura is an avid world traveler. She has slept in a tent in the Okavango Delta in Botswana, dived with sharks off the coast of South Africa and steered a dog sled in Arctic Finland. When not working, Laura loves exploring urban Chicago on walks with her dog, Ruthie, and spending time with her large extended family. She also enjoys art and interior design.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Stephen I. Lee
Stephen I. Lee is a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners, where he regularly meets with clients to implement and review financial planning and investment strategies.
Stephen began his career in wealth management in 2001 and has a broad range of experience in banking, insurance, investments and advisory services. He is passionate about helping his clients navigate key financial challenges by taking a comprehensive approach to planning.
Stephen graduated from the University of California, Irvine, with a B.A. in economics and earned his MBA from the USC Marshall School of Business. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and a member of the Financial Planning Association of Orange County. He earned his Certified Wealth Strategist® designation in 2024.
Stephen is a 7-time World Champion and a 2-time National Champion in bicycle motocross racing. He resides in Irvine, CA with his family.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Fran Lee
Francis (“Fran”) Lee is a wealth advisor for RWA Wealth Partners. In this role, Fran meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements his clients’ investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations and individual client objectives. He brings over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and works closely with individuals and multigenerational families. Fran and his team collaborate with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to provide clients with a personalized, seamless experience.
Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Fran served as regional director at Avantax Investment Services, where he helped grow the firm’s client base and expanded its services to meet the needs of high-net-worth individuals. He previously held the position of vice president at Fidelity Investments, where he gained extensive experience working in both retail and institutional settings.
Fran received a B.A. from Stonehill College and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. He resides in Milton, MA, with his wife and three daughters. Fran enjoys spending time with his family while staying actively involved in the local community.
*The Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the Wealth Advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Catherine Ocampo
Wealth Advisor
Tim Mazanec
Timothy (“Tim”) Mazanec serves as a wealth advisor for RWA Wealth Partners. Tim focuses on assisting clients with their financial priorities and investment management needs. He believes that a well-crafted financial plan fosters communication and connection within families. Tim takes pleasure in educating clients about their financial situation and collaborating with them to refine and grow their wealth plans over time.
Tim started his career in wealth management in 2014 at a large national firm. He initially joined the financial services industry in 1994, helping to develop the Treasury and Foreign Exchange groups at Investors Bank & Trust. Tim was a regular commentator in the financial press, appearing more than 200 times on Bloomberg TV.
Tim earned his Master Planner Advanced StudiesTM designation from the College for Financial Planning and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. He also holds the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor SM and Chartered Market Technician® designations. He earned a B.S. in finance and management from Northeastern University.
Tim enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. He can often be found playing sports with them or watching them compete. He and his family live in Cambridge, MA.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Matthew Shumaker
Matthew (“Matt”) Shumaker is a wealth advisor at RWA Wealth Partners and began his financial services career with the firm in 2017 as a client service associate. Matt is responsible for developing customized financial solutions to help individuals and families realize their goals and providing comprehensive wealth planning in coordination with our investment team, tax professionals and estate planners. Matt is especially attuned to the unique needs of each client and is dedicated to providing clients with exceptional service.
Matt graduated cum laude from Stonehill College with a B.S. in finance and business administration. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.
Matt grew up in Milford, CT, and currently resides in Boston. Outside of work, he enjoys playing golf and basketball and traveling around the world.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Geoffrey Turner
Geoffrey (“Geoff”) Turner serves as a Wealth Advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. In his role, Geoff meets with clients to gain a clear understanding of their complex financial needs in order to design and implement customized wealth plans. He works closely with our investment team, tax professionals, and estate planner to help clients achieve their unique long-term goals.
Prior to joining the firm in 2010, he worked at Fidelity Investments and was a 401(k) specialist assisting with nonprofit retirement accounts.
Geoff is a graduate of Plymouth State University where he earned a B.S. in Marketing. He is also a 2025 recipient of Boston magazine’s Five Star Wealth Manager award. *
Geoff resides in Winthrop, MA with his wife and children. He enjoys cheering on Boston sports teams and spending time in New Hampshire with his family.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. The award was issued on 2/1/2025 for the time period 4/10/24 through 10/31/24. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the Wealth Advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page.
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Alden Witman
Alden Witman serves as a Wealth Advisor at RWA Wealth Partners. In his role, Alden meets with current and potential clients to gain a clear understanding of their complex financial needs in order to design and implement customized financial plans and provide ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market conditions, tax considerations, and individual client objectives.
Alden joined RWA Wealth in 2019. He started his career in the financial services industry with UBS in 2012 before moving to The Harvest Group as a wealth management advisor.
Alden graduated from Quinnipiac University in 2004 with a B.S. in Economics. He earned his Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorSM designation in 2015 and has been a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional since 2016. He is also a 2025 recipient of Boston magazine’s Five Star Wealth Manager award. *
He lives in Wrentham, MA, with his wife, Stephanie, and sons Henry and Ford.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. The award was issued on 2/1/2025 for the time period 4/20/24 through 10/31/24. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the Wealth Advisors’ future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Vanessa Carter-Witt
Michael Dillaire
Colbey Gilford
Ryan O’Shaughnessy
Connor Ronan
Senior Relationship Manager
Vanessa Carter-Witt
Vanessa Carter-Witt is a senior relationship manager at RWA Wealth Partners. Vanessa works closely with our wealth advisors, investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to design and implement comprehensive and customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial needs and long-term goals. She also has a particular interest in helping clients navigate the complexities of aging in place and has earned the Certification for Long-Term Care designation.
Prior to joining the firm in 2017, Vanessa worked for Everhart Advisors as a retirement plan services specialist and assisted clients with 401(k) fee reviews and plan transitions. Previously, she was a registered representative with Mid Atlantic Capital Company.
Vanessa graduated from the University of Dayton with a B.S. in finance. She obtained her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation and holds the Certification for Long-Term Care credential.
Vanessa is an Ohio native but currently resides in Canton, MI. She enjoys spending time with her wife and twin boys.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Michael Dillaire
Michael (“Mike”) Dillaire is a senior relationship manager at RWA Wealth Partners. Mike works closely with our wealth advisors, investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to design and implement comprehensive and customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial needs and long-term goals. He is also a key resource in the firm to assist clients with equity compensation issues.
Mike joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2021 after holding positions at Fidelity Investments as a financial representative and JPMorgan Chase, N.A., as a private client banker and relationship banker.
Mike earned a dual bachelor’s degree in business administration with concentrations in finance and criminal justice from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and holds the Equity Compensation Associate (ECA) designation.
Mike resides in Arlington, MA, with his rescue dog, Rosco.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Colbey Gilford
Colbey Gilford is a relationship manager at RWA Wealth Partners. Colbey works closely with our wealth advisors, investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to design and implement comprehensive and customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial needs and long-term goals.
Prior to joining the firm in 2020, Colbey held positions as a financial planning associate at Merino Wealth Management in Chicago and as a retirement services intern at Millennium Trust Company in Oak Brook, IL.
Colbey graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a degree in agricultural and consumer economics with a concentration in financial planning. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.
In his free time, Colbey enjoys traveling, trying new foods and spending time with his 10 siblings. He currently resides in Houston, TX.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
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Ryan O’Shaughnessy
Ryan O’Shaughnessy is a relationship manager at RWA Wealth Partners. Ryan works closely with our wealth advisors, investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to design and implement comprehensive and customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial needs and long-term goals.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2019, Ryan worked for Citizens Bank for more than four years and held the positions of universal banker, licensed banker and premier advisor, assistant vice president. In these roles, he assisted clients with lending and customer problem-solving.
Ryan graduated from Stonehill College with a B.S. in business administration.
He resides in his hometown of Lowell, MA, and enjoys attending concerts and traveling.
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Connor Ronan
John (“Connor”) Ronan is a relationship manager at RWA Wealth Partners. Connor works closely with our wealth advisors, investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to design and implement comprehensive and customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial needs and long-term goals.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2020, Connor was a wealth management associate at UBS Private Wealth Management and One Charles Private Wealth, where he worked with financial planners and helped with client onboarding and issues.
He graduated from Bentley University with a B.A. in finance and minors in actuarial sciences and history.
He currently resides in Brooklyn, NY, and his hobbies include playing hockey, skiing, surfing and golfing.
MoreClient Services
Matthew Dakoyannis
Holly Dumlupinar
Jessie Farris
Diana Henao
Kia Jeffery
Elaine Keratzides
JJ Leahy
Maryse Magbagbeola
Kristen Manjikian
Komal Patel
Karrie Pettiglio
Private Wealth Client Officer
Matthew Dakoyannis
Matt Dakoyannis joined RWA Wealth Partners as a client service associate in 2022 after serving as an intern in 2021. He graduated magna cum laude from Stonehill College in 2022 with a B.S. in business administration and finance. At RWA Wealth Partners, Matt is responsible for assisting portfolio executives in onboarding new clients as well as maintaining relationships with current clients. Matt enjoys reading, exercising, spending time with friends and family, and cooking. He grew up in Stoneham, MA, where he continues to reside today.
Private Wealth Sr. Client Officer
Holly Dumlupinar
Holly Dumlupinar is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Wealth Partners. Holly is passionate about connecting with her clients on a personal level. She works closely with our wealth advisors, investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to design and implement comprehensive and customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial needs and long-term goals.
Holly has worked in the financial services industry since 2012. Previously, she served as a relationship manager at Citi Personal Wealth Management and First Republic Bank. Prior to joining the financial services industry, Holly provided crisis management counseling in her hometown of Monterey, CA.
Holly earned a B.A. in psychology from San Francisco State University.
She lives in Charlestown, MA, with her husband and two daughters and enjoys exploring New England and visiting friends and family on the West Coast.
More client services administrative associate
Jessie Farris
Private Wealth Client Officer
Diana Henao
Diana joined RWA in 2025 as a client service associate and is responsible for assisting the advisory team in meeting client needs. She’s spent more than 20 years in the financial services industry and has extensive experience working with individual clients, institutional clients and advisors over that time. She earned her BS in business with a focus in finance from UMass Boston. Originally from Colombia, Diana now lives in Saugus, MA—she has two children and enjoys spending time with family and traveling.
Private Wealth Client Officer
Kia Jeffery
Kia joined RWA Wealth Partners in August 2021 as a Client Service Associate. She is responsible for the coordination and resolution of a variety of service and reporting requests between the client, the relationship management team, and custodians. Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners, Kia was a Client Service Associate on the Relationship Management Team within a Boston-based investment company. Kia graduated from Northeastern University in 2015 with a B.S. in Business Administration and a minor in Psychology. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her young nieces.
Private Wealth Sr. Client Officer
Elaine Keratzides
Elaine has obtained diverse industry experience by having worked in various operational and financial positions for Charles Schwab, Hewlett Packard and Levi Strauss. Elaine earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics at San Francisco State University and her MBA degree from the University of San Francisco. In her current position at RWA Wealth Partners, Elaine supports wealth advisors and custodians in the onboarding process of new clients, which includes establishing new accounts and fulfilling client service requests.
Elaine, a native San Franciscan, currently resides in San Rafael. In her free time, Elaine enjoys and supports her son’s basketball team as well as the summer league teams. Elaine enjoys walking, playing tennis and spending quality time with friends and family.
Private Wealth Client Officer
JJ Leahy
JJ started his career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2023, where he works closely with clients to ensure their service needs are met. Prior to that, JJ worked as an enterprise sales and strategic account management professional for over six years. JJ graduated from Stonehill College in 2014, receiving his B.A. in American studies with a focus in communication and cinema studies. Outside of work, he is an aspiring average golfer, film buff and avid sports fan.
Private Wealth Client Officer
Maryse Magbagbeola
Maryse originally joined RWA in 2018 and came back to the firm in 2025. As a client service associate, she works closely with clients to coordinate a variety of service and reporting needs between the client, the advisory team and the account custodian. She was an assistant manager at TD Bank prior to joining the firm. Maryse earned a B.A. in business management at Regis College while minoring in economics and international relations. She later acquired her M.S. in management from Emmanuel College. A mom of two little girls, Maryse is passionate about dancing and interesting food. She also speaks fluent French and Swahili.
Private Wealth Sr. Client Officer
Kristen Manjikian
Kristen Manjikian is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. She works closely with our wealth advisors, investment team, tax professionals and estate planners to design and implement comprehensive and customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique financial needs and long-term goals. Kristen is dedicated to providing her clients with exceptional service.
Kristen joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2021 after working at Armstrong Advisory Group for 15 years as a financial planner. In this role, she offered administrative and operational support to a group of advisors and clients.
She graduated from Bentley University in 2007 with a B.S. in finance and currently is pursuing the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation.
Kristen lives in Waltham, MA, and enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
More Private Wealth Client Officer
Komal Patel
Komal joined RWA in 2025 as a client service associate. She works closely with the advisory team to make sure client needs are met. She’s been in the wealth management industry for five years, and prior to that, her experience includes working for an international diamond distributor as well as roles in the banking and insurance industries. Komal holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Veer Narmad South Gujarat University and speaks Hindi and Gujarati. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and son.
Deputy Director of Private Wealth Client Service
Karrie Pettiglio
Karrie joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2018. She is responsible for coordinating client service and reporting needs with the relationship management team, operations group and custodian. She graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in economics from Nichols College in 2014.
Custodial Referral
Matthew Batzel
Jeremy D. Witbeck
Regional Vice President
Matthew Batzel
Matthew (“Matt”) Batzel serves as a regional vice president at RWA Wealth Partners and is a member of the business development team. Matt introduces clients and prospective clients to wealth advisors and provides information about RWA Wealth Partners’ investment strategies to the custodian referral channel.
Matt began his career in the financial services industry in 2006 through the educational division of Investools, where he helped clients better understand options, forex and futures trading. Prior to his work in the financial industry, Matt served in the U.S. Army.
In his free time, Matt enjoys playing golf and spending time with his wife and three children. Matt loves being outdoors. He is also very passionate about and involved in the Special Olympics.
More Partner, Business Development Vice President
Jeremy D. Witbeck
Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Jeremy worked as a Portfolio Manager for a Los Angeles area investment firm where he built customized portfolios for high net worth clients. Jeremy meets directly with clients and prospective clients to communicate RWA Wealth Partners’ investment strategies and review all financial planning needs.
Jeremy graduated from the University of Arizona, where he earned his BS in accounting. Additionally, he is a graduate of California Lutheran University, where he earned his MBA in financial planning. Jeremy has an extensive background in the financial service industry and holder of the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation and is a Certified Financial Planner™ professional.
In his free time, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his wife and sons and playing basketball and softball in local leagues. He also teaches graduate-level coursework for the California Institute of Finance at California Lutheran University.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
MoreEstate/Trust Services
Rawson Hubbell
Director of Estate and Trust Services
Rawson Hubbell
Rawson has over 25 years of experience working with executives, business owners and retirees on issues around wealth transfer, trusts and estate planning. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners as Director of Estate and Trust Services in 2023, Rawson was a private wealth strategist at a large national financial services provider, where he worked with many of the firm’s largest clients on similar planning issues.
He obtained his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 1999, an M.A in Asian studies and a J.D. from Washington University, and a B.A. in economics from Middlebury College.
One of Rawson’s proudest professional achievements was his early facility with a potent tax-saving strategy using intentionally defective grantor trusts. This guidance helped save his clients hundreds of millions of dollars in transfer taxes while enabling them to make impactful donations to their chosen philanthropic causes.
Rawson is a 20-year rider in the Pan-Massachusetts Challenge and is actively involved with the Epiphany School in Dorchester, MA, where he has served as treasurer and a member of the board of trustees. He enjoys cycling, tennis and pickleball—all with friends, and especially with family.
Tax and Bill Pay
Christopher Hernandez
Michael Heng
Michelle Indeck
Justin Lin
Judy Ludwig
Nick Milliman
Nicolette Shaw
Tax Associate
Christopher Hernandez
As a tax associate for RWA Wealth Partners, Chris Hernandez is responsible for the preparation and timely filing of highly complex federal and state individual and fiduciary income tax returns, charitable returns and tax estimates. Chris’ experience in law and wealth management prove especially valuable for our wealth services team, as Chris helps with the analysis needed to draft tax reports, prepare gift tax returns, perform gift tax planning projections, and undertake complex calculations of various tax scenarios when assisting clients and their fiduciaries with strategic tax planning.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2024, Chris was an associate at The Colony Group, a wealth advisory and business management firm. In this role, Chris was responsible for high-net-worth clients’ tax planning, preparation and tax controversy work, as well as client investments, retirement planning and financial advising. He also held several legal positions during and after attending law school.
Chris graduated cum laude from New England Law Boston, where he earned his J.D. and certificates in tax law and compliance as well as risk management. Chris holds a B.A. from Montclair State University. He is admitted to the Massachusetts bar and the United States Tax Court.
In his free time, Chris is a national-level weightlifter who also coaches a large team of weightlifters. He enjoys skiing, fly fishing and traveling to regions with arctic climates.
Senior Tax Associate
Michael Heng
Mike started his career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2023. He handles tax compliance and planning for high-net-worth individuals.
Mike has worked in public accounting since 2017, with a focus on compliance and tax planning for high-net-worth individuals and trusts. He also has experience with investment partnerships.
He graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a B.S. in business administration. Mike earned an M.S. degree in accounting with a tax concentration from Bryant University. He also holds the certified public accountant (CPA) license.
In his free time, Mike enjoys gathering with friends and family, working out, traveling, playing billiards and dining at new restaurants. He grew up in Rhode Island and lives in Malden, MA, with his pomsky, Zuko.
Tax & Family Office Manager
Michelle Indeck
Tax Associate
Justin Lin
Justin got his start at RWA Wealth Partners as a tax associate in 2024. Prior to joining the firm, he spent two years working for a tax and family office firm. He holds a B.S. in business administration with a focus on finance and accounting from Northeastern University.
He enjoys helping people build and refine their tax strategy and plan for retirement, and he loves exploring the range of options to help them reach their goals.
When he’s not at work, Justin is rooting on the Boston Celtics, playing chess or spending time with his bich-poo, Roxy.
Vice President of Planning and Taxation
Judy Ludwig
Judith (“Judy”) Ludwig serves as vice president of planning and taxation. In her role, Judy works closely with high-net-worth individuals, multigenerational families and trusts. With decades of experience, she brings a deep understanding of the intricate financial planning needs unique to these clients, and she partners with our investment team to manage wealth holistically. She has contributed articles to The Boston Globe and has been quoted in The Wall Street Journal.
Judy began her career as a systems analyst with Fortune 500 and 100 companies before joining Laventhol & Horwath, where she was the manager of personal financial planning. In 1987, Judy and her husband, Joseph, founded Tandem Financial Services, Inc. She served as vice president and was responsible for the Personal Financial Planning and Tax Services side of the business. In 2003, they sold the firm to Braver PC, a public accounting firm, and the name was changed to Braver Wealth Management, LLC (BWM). In 2017, BWM was sold to Adviser Investments, LLC (now RWA Wealth Partners, LLC).
Judy earned a B.A. in mathematics from Douglass College, Rutgers University, and a certificate in accounting from Bentley College. Judy is a certified public accountant and holds a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation, Personal Financial Specialist credential, and Accredited Estate Planner designation. She is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Judy has been president of the Norfolk/Plymouth Estate and Business Planning Council and served on the board of directors of the National Association of Estate Planners.
Judy enjoys traveling, reading, baking, and spending time with her family, including her five grandchildren. She resides in Sharon, MA, with her husband.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Judy Ludwig was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2012 to 2013 and 2016 to 2022. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Senior Tax Associate
Nick Milliman
Nick began his career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2023. He focuses on tax planning and compliance for our valued wealth advisory clients.
A public accountant since 2017, Nick closely follows every change in the tax code to help clients, keeping them on track to achieve their financial goals.
He graduated from Northeastern University with a B.S. in accounting.
In his free time, Nick likes playing and watching football, basketball and baseball, and he’s a devoted long-distance runner. He also enjoys reading quarterly reports and proxy statements from public companies. Nick grew up in Norwalk, CT, and lives in Brookline, MA.
Tax & Family Office Manager
Nicolette Shaw
Nicolette joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2017. She manages tax & family office clients’ day-to-day needs and requests to provide efficient processing of transactions, transfers, onboarding and more. She is responsible for the coordination and resolution of a variety of service and reporting requests between the client, the wealth management team, and custodians. Nicolette graduated from Framingham State University with a B.A. in sociology and lives in Boston. In her free time, she loves to travel, golf and volunteer with Boston Cares.
Family Office team - leadership
Michelle Knight
Nicole E. LaChapelle
Joseph E. Powers
Francis J. Sennott
Jacqueline L. Rahn
Meredith Doucette
Katherine Livingston
Sharon J. Phelan
Sophia S. Flaxen
Chief Executive Officer & Chief Economist
Michelle Knight
Michelle Knight serves as the chief executive officer of the firm. Previously, she was the president and chief economist for Ropes Wealth Advisors, the family office division of RWA Wealth Partners. As CEO, she is responsible for day-to-day management of the firm and executing its long-term strategic plan. As the firm’s chief economist, she’s responsible for apprising clients of global economic and market activity. Michelle is a frequent contributor to Financial Advisor magazine and Private Asset Management magazine, and she has been quoted in Bloomberg, Thomson Reuters, the Boston Business Journal, Forbes and The Boston Globe.
In the past, Michelle served as chief investment officer for Ropes Wealth and chief economist for Ropes & Gray LLP. She was chief economist and managing director of fixed income for Silver Bridge Advisors (now Boston Private Wealth) and head of fixed income at Atlantic Trust (now CIBC Wealth). Before joining Atlantic Trust, Michelle was an analyst and assistant portfolio manager at J.P. Morgan Investment Management in New York.
Michelle earned an MBA, an MSF and a B.A. from Boston College, where she graduated summa cum laude and held the distinction of Presidential Scholar. In 2009, the Boston Business Journal1 named her one of its 40 Under 40 in recognition of her accomplishments as a corporate and civic leader.
Michelle is a Boston College trustee and Investment Committee member, Boston Latin School vice chair of the Board of Trustees and Investment Committee member, Dedham Country Day School trustee and Investment Committee chair, Rosie’s Place trustee and Investment Committee member, trustee and treasurer of the Leventhal Map & Education Center of the Boston Public Library, and Investment Committee member for the endowment of the Archdiocese of Boston. She is a volunteer and member of the Boston Economic Club, the Boston College Alumni Association and Council for Women, the Boston Children’s Hospital League, and the Catholic Schools Foundation Inner-City Scholarship Fund. Michelle also teaches religious education at Holy Name Church in West Roxbury, serves as the treasurer of Holy Name Cub Scout Pack 3, and is a parent volunteer with the Guild of St. Irene at St. Sebastian’s School in Needham and the Parent Association of Dedham Country Day School.
Michelle resides in West Roxbury, MA, with her family, including three sons who are the joy of her life.
1 The 40 Under 40 list is compiled by the Boston Business Journal. Annually, the Boston Business Journal seeks nominations to recognize 40 of Boston’s best and brightest young professionals. Nominees are evaluated based on their achievements, innovations and leadership skills in their fields as well as their civic involvement and accomplishments. It is not known how many nominees were considered in 2009. Winners in any particular year cannot win the 40 Under 40 recognition again. No fees were paid by any individual or third party in order for an individual to be nominated or selected for this recognition. The results of the list should not be interpreted as reflecting the approval or disapproval of the advisor’s services by clients, and the recognition is not intended to be indicative of or a promise of future performance.
President of Family Office
Nicole E. LaChapelle
Nicole LaChapelle serves as RWA’s President of Family Office and brings over 15 years of client service experience and expertise to this role, working together with her team of client service officers, specialists, and administrators to design and deliver the solutions that will best position clients to achieve their goals as they navigate their personal financial journey. Nicole is a member of RWA’s Business Oversight Committee and is a key contributor to the firm’s business development and strategic planning initiatives. Nicole also continues to lead several of the firm’s long-standing client relationships, seeking to deliver an exceptional client experience along the way.
Prior to her current role, Nicole was the Client Service Director for RWA. Before joining RWA, Nicole spent more than 10 years with Ropes & Gray LLP, initially as an estate settlement administrator and subsequently as Manager of Client Services. She began her career with MFS Investment Management as a retirement plan specialist.
Nicole earned an MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business. Her undergraduate degree in business administration, with a minor in economics, was also awarded by Boston University. She received her paralegal certificate from Northeastern University in 2008.
In 2017, Nicole was the recipient of Ropes & Gray’s prestigious ACE award (Acclaiming and Celebrating Excellence) for her tremendous individual contributions and leadership to the Private Client Group and RWA.
Nicole serves on the Board of Advisors for the South Boston Neighborhood House (“The Ollie”), and enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as well as traveling as often as her schedule permits.
Chief Investment Officer
Joseph E. Powers
Joseph (JP) Powers serves as chief investment officer for RWA Wealth Partners, where he’s responsible for overseeing and implementing the firm’s overall investment strategy. In this role, he leads the investment team in making asset allocation decisions and directing investment and manager selection on behalf of all clients. JP also works directly with clients, apprising them of global economic and market activity and its implications for their specific and customized investment strategies. JP leverages his analytical abilities to drive key elements of the firm’s investment technology platform, including researching and implementing new systems and software to continually improve the efficiency of the investment trading platform and enhance the client experience of performance reporting.
JP chairs the Investment Policy Committee and is also a member of the Business Oversight Committee.
Previously, JP was portfolio manager and director at Ropes Wealth Advisors. Prior to Ropes Wealth, he was the director of fixed income for Silver Bridge Advisors (now Boston Private Wealth). As director of fixed income, JP focused on fixed income portfolio construction, research, and trading in both the taxable and tax-exempt fixed income sectors. Before joining the fixed income team, JP spent several years supporting the company’s equity research efforts as an analyst for the technology, telecommunications and consumer staples sectors while overseeing the firm’s equity trading desk. JP began his career with State Street Corporation.
JP earned an MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business and a B.S. in business administration from the University of New Hampshire. He was the winner of the Sandra A. F. Harper award from the BU Questrom program, which honors the student who best exemplifies community contribution and leadership within the graduating class.
JP resides in Dover, MA, with his wife and young son, and he enjoys sports, travel, and spending time with his family and friends. He divides his time between Boston and New Hampshire whenever possible.
Senior Director of Family Office Financial Planning
Francis J. Sennott
Francis (“Frank”) Sennott serves as Senior Director of Family Office Financial Planning for RWA Family Office, where he counsels wealthy families, corporate executives, professionals, and closely held business owners on personal financial matters. In his role, Frank designs and implements financial plans, coordinates relationships with clients’ advisors, including attorneys, accountants, lenders and insurance brokers, develops investment objectives for clients’ qualified and nonqualified investment portfolios, and develops and presents financial planning seminars to corporate clients.
Before joining RWA, Frank served as a Financial Planner for Ropes & Gray LLP for over thirteen years. Before his many years of service with Ropes & Gray LLP, Frank accumulated over 15 years of experience in areas including financial planning, estate and insurance planning, personal income tax, and the design and implementation of executive benefits. Frank provided these and other services to a wide variety of clients through service in senior positions with Westport Worldwide, The Brown Company, KPMG Peat Marwick, George Beram & Company, and the Weston Financial Group, among other organizations.
Frank earned his MBA and BS from Boston College and a JD from George Washington University. He is a member of the Shaw Society at Boston College and serves on its Legacy Giving Committee. Frank is an adjunct faculty member at Northeastern University where he teaches a course on financial planning in the graduate tax program. He is a past contributor to Benefits Quarterly magazine, Benefits and Compensation International magazine, and the American Society of CLU and ChFC’s Business and Compensation News and Views newsletter.
Frank resides in Westwood with his wife and is a proud father to a son and daughter in their twenties. He is a long-time season-ticket holder for the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston College football teams.
Head of Family Office Fiduciary Services
Jacqueline L. Rahn
Jacqueline (“Jacqui”) Rahn is Head of Family Office Fiduciary Services for RWA. In this role, Jacqui is responsible for providing subject matter expertise on fiduciary and trust administration matters. Jacqui partners with both internal and external trustees, estate planning attorneys, and other tax and investment professionals to tailor creative trust solutions to complex matters.
Before moving into to her current role, Jacqui served as Fiduciary Services Director and as a Senior Client Officer for RWA. Previously, she was a trust administrator for Ropes & Gray LLP. Prior to joining Ropes, Jacqui worked as an attorney for five years.
Jacqui earned a JD from Boston University School of Law and a BS in finance and economics from the University of Delaware.
Jacqui lives in Norfolk with her husband and their two young children.
Co-Head of Family Office Tax Services and Senior Tax Accountant
Meredith Doucette
As Co-Head of Family Office Tax Services and Senior Tax Accountant of RWA Tax Solutions, Meredith Doucette is responsible for the preparation and timely filing of federal and state individual and fiduciary income tax returns, charitable returns, and tax estimates of the highest complexity. In addition, Meredith prepares and timely files other related tax returns, including non-profit, employment, and gift returns; prepares tax estimates and tax information documents; and performs complex calculations of various tax scenarios to assist and work with both clients and their fiduciaries on strategic tax planning.
Meredith joined RWA Tax Solutions in 2023. Prior to joining, Meredith spent nearly 8 years as a Tax Advisor at Loring, Wolcott & Coolidge where she assisted clients with their individual, fiduciary and not-for-profit tax needs. She began her career at Grant Thornton as a tax team member in their private wealth services group.
Meredith earned both a Master of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration at Northeastern University. She is a Certified Public Accountant1 and a member of the Massachusetts Society of CPAs. Her undergraduate degree in psychology was awarded by Wheaton College (MA).
Meredith resides in Newton with her husband and enjoys baking, gardening and jigsaw puzzling. She is a dedicated volunteer and supporter of Cake4Kids, a non-profit organization that provides free custom homemade birthday cakes to at-risk and underserved youth.
1 CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT (“CPA”) is a designation is granted by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”). To earn the CPA designation, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree, meet minimum experience levels, and pass the Uniform CPA Examination. Additionally, CPAs must meet annual continuing education requirements and adhere to a rigorous Code of Professional Conduct. CPAs are licensed and regulated by their state boards of accountancy.
Co-Head of Family Office Tax Services and Senior Tax Accountant
Katherine Livingston
As Co-Head of Family Office Tax Services and Senior Tax Accountant for RWA Tax Solutions, Katherine (“Katie”) Livingston is responsible for the preparation and timely filing of federal and state individual and fiduciary income tax returns, and tax estimates of the highest complexity, including the gathering and analysis of all information needed to complete these returns and to determine the lowest lawful tax burden for the client. In addition, Katie also prepares and timely files other related tax returns, tax estimates and tax information documents, and performs complex calculations of various tax scenarios to assist and work with both clients and their fiduciaries with strategic tax planning.
Katie joined RWA Tax Solutions in 2023, having spent more than four years with Ropes & Gray LLP, most recently as Senior Income Tax Accountant. She began her career in public accounting, working in the Private Client Service group of BDO, USA LLP where she prepared complex 1040s for high net worth individual clients.
Katie is a graduate of Emmanuel College with BS in Accounting. She is an Enrolled Agent1 and is able to represent clients before the Internal Revenue Service. Katie resides in Walpole and enjoys reading in her spare time.
1 An Enrolled Agent has earned the privilege of representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service by either passing a three-part comprehensive IRS test covering individual and business tax returns, or through experience as a former IRS employee. Enrolled Agent status is the highest credential the IRS awards. Individuals who obtain this elite status must adhere to ethical standards and complete 72 hours of continuing education courses every three years.
Chief of Business Administration
Sharon J. Phelan
Sharon Phelan, CFP®1 serves as the Chief of Business Administration and focuses on innovative services and strategic initiatives that support the RWA team as we strive to deliver an integrated client experience. Sharon possesses considerable organizational abilities and applies these talents to drive key elements of our technology platform, including researching and implementing new technology enhancements in an effort to continually improve the accuracy and efficiency of our operations and client servicing.
Before joining RWA, Sharon worked as a trust client service assistant and then as a financial paraplanner for Ropes & Gray LLP. Sharon previously worked at Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch with some of the industry’s largest financial advising teams, gaining extensive knowledge in investments, portfolio management, and personal, high-touch client servicing.
Sharon earned a BA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, a member of the Financial Planning Association of Massachusetts, and earned her certificate in Financial Planning from Boston University’s Center for Professional Education.
Sharon lives in South Carolina and spends as much free-time as possible in Maine, and is a dedicated volunteer and supporter of Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for foster children in the Greater Boston area.
1 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or CFP® certification is granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (“CFP Board”). Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university and three years of full-time personal financial planning experience. To receive CFP® certification, candidates must complete a CFP Board Registered Program or hold an accepted designation, degree or license; pass the CFP® Certification Examination; and agree to be bound by CFP Board’s Standards of Professional Conduct. In addition, a CFP® professional must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. More information about CFP® certification is available at https://www.cfp.net.
Chief of Data Analytics & Trust Operations
Sophia S. Flaxen
Sophia Flaxen serves as Chief of Data Analytics at RWA Family Office and RWA Wealth Partners, where she is responsible for managing the operational and business needs for the organization. In this capacity she manages key technology vendor relationships, financial reporting, business analysis, finances and budgeting, and overall business operations. Sophia also works with and supervises a team of operations administrators and specialists responsible for establishing new accounts, processing cash and asset transfer requests, reconciling account positions and cash, assessing fees, and administering various other client service requests. Sophia is also a member of the Business Oversight Committee of RWA.
Prior to joining RWA, Sophia spent almost 20 years working at Ropes & Gray LLP in trust administration and technology strategy. She previously led the Trust Services area for the Private Client Group, managing a team of trust administrators and assistants. Sophia headed up the group’s conversion to SEI in 2006 and to a new performance measurement platform in 2013. More recently, she was responsible for vendor management, client reporting and business analysis for the department.
Sophia earned a BA (Hons) from Oxford University and completed law school in England at Middlesex University (Common Professional Examination) and Nottingham Trent University (Legal Practice Course). Sophia has served as a board member and Secretary of SEI’s BSP Client Advisory Group and is an active contributor to the SEI Boston User Group. Sophia resides in Melrose with her husband and three children, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends (here and in the U.K.) and escaping occasionally to a ski house in Vermont.
Portfolio Management
Terrence C. Tedeschi
Daniel L. Almeida
Shruti Bansal
James J. Danna
Jeremy Lehrer, CFA®, CPWA®, CAIA®
Jennifer K. Loveless
Christopher A. Newton
Michael J. Stevens
Portfolio Manager, Director of Manager Research
Terrence C. Tedeschi
Terrence C. Tedeschi serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director of Manager Research at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In his role, he meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements his clients’ investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Terrence performs equity security analysis on behalf of our clients and is a key contributor to the trading and analysis of individual equity securities, especially as it relates to concentrated client positions. As a key member of the Investment Policy Committee, Terrence plays an integral role in RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection effort, and he is responsible for all aspects of performance analysis for RWA’s key investment strategies.
Previously, Terrence was an equity trader and member of the Asset Allocation Committee for Boston Private Wealth, a subsidiary of Boston Bank & Trust. In his role, he was responsible for the trading of all client accounts invested within the firm’s proprietary equity strategies with the responsibility to minimize portfolio drift and ensure adherence with any specific client restrictions or requests. Terrence began his career at US Bank as a portfolio administrator within the Corporate Trust Services division.
Terrence earned a BS in Finance from Bentley University, where he was a member of the golf team. Terrence currently resides in Milton with his wife and two young children. An accomplished golfer, Terrence enjoys all sports, travel, music, and spending time with his family and friends.
Portfolio Manager, Director of Strategy Implementation
Daniel L. Almeida
Daniel Almeida serves as a Portfolio Manager, Director of Strategy Implementation at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team and Investment Policy Committee. In his role, he meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his client’s investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Daniel performs equity security analysis on behalf of clients especially as it relates to concentrated positions and is a key contributor to the individual fixed income management process from portfolio construction to execution. Daniel plays a key role in helping the firm meet its best execution requirements, as well as with RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection efforts.
Prior to joining RWA, he was an equity trader for Boston Private Wealth and member of the firm’s Best Execution Committee. In this role, he was responsible for trading all client accounts invested in the firm’s proprietary equity strategies, while focusing on portfolio drift and specific client requirements. Daniel began his career at Boston Private Bank & Trust as a client service associate.
Daniel graduated magna cum laude from Johnson & Wales University, where he was a member of the Silver Key Honor Society, with a BS in Business Management and Business Administration. Daniel earned CFA Level I and is a CFA Level II Candidate.
An avid hockey player and former college goalie, Daniel plays in a number of competitive men’s hockey leagues. Daniel resides in Foxboro with his wife and four children, and enjoys sports, travel, the outdoors, and quality time with his family and friends.
Portfolio Manager & Director
Shruti Bansal
Shruti Bansal serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In her role, she meets with current and potential clients to discuss RWA’s investment philosophy and process. For each client, she helps establish and implement an appropriate investment objective, typically customized within the broader wealth management architecture of the client. Shruti is actively involved in equity security analysis on behalf of clients and manager due diligence across all asset classes. She plays an integral role in RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection effort, and is a member of the Investment Policy Committee.
Shruti brings over 20 years of experience in investment and portfolio management, where she has worked closely with high net-worth clients to provide proactive and unbiased investment advice grounded in intensive and independent research. Her research background covers all asset classes, especially hedge funds, private equity, venture capital, private real estate, and other alternative strategies. Shruti has held various positions at multi-family registered investment advisers, single family offices, pensions, foundations, and insurance companies and has been responsible for thought leadership as well as investment policy and capital allocation decisions.
Shruti earned her BS in Economics from Montclair State University. She is a CFA®1 charter holder and is a member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society Boston. Shruti was born and raised in India and moved to the United States after high school to attend undergraduate college. Shruti volunteers as an Investment Committee member of Rosie’s Place, the first women’s shelter in the U.S., which opened in 1974.
She lives with her husband and two children in Newton, where she is actively involved in the school PTO board. She is busy writing a recipe book which she hopes to publish one day. Apart from creating recipes, she loves growing her own fruits and vegetables in the summer and enjoys hiking and spending time with her family and friends.
1 Chartered Financial Analyst® or CFA® designation is a professional certification offered by the CFA Institute. In order to earn the CFA® designation, candidates must complete a series of three exams, possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or have equivalent education or work experience as well as 4 years of qualified, professional work experience. CFA® charterholders are also obligated to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards governing their professional conduct. More information about the CFA® designation is available at CFA Program (cfainstitute.org).
Portfolio Trading Senior Officer
James J. Danna
James (“Jim”) Danna serves as Portfolio Trading Senior Officer for RWA Family Office. In his role, he is responsible for the creation, execution, and oversight of client investment portfolios in conjunction with the Portfolio Managers, preparing and inputting trades with brokers and custodians. Working closely with the Client Officers and Portfolio Managers, Jim plays a critical role in managing cash flows for the clients of RWA. He also coordinates and monitors the trading and implementation process of the separate account managers that RWA has engaged. Jim is a member of the firm’s Investment Team and the Investment Policy Committee, contributing key reporting elements for Investment Policy Committee.
Prior to RWA, Jim was with Ropes & Gray since October 1990, spending the first decade of his tenure in the firm’s Finance Department, where he held the positions of Billing Clerk, Senior Billing Clerk, Staff Accountant, and Senior Accounting Representative. He joined the Private Client Group in 2001 where he held positions of Control Specialist and Trust Distributions Specialist before becoming one of the firm’s Portfolio Traders in 2009.
Portfolio Manager & Director
Jeremy Lehrer, CFA®, CPWA®, CAIA®
Jeremy Lehrer serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In his role, Jeremy meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his client’s investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Jeremy’s breadth of experience in financial services helps shape his commitment to providing exceptional client service.
Previously at Matthews Asia, Jeremy helped investment advisors like RWA better understand investment opportunities in Asian and Emerging Markets. At Charles Schwab, he helped investors understand research resources for their separately managed account platform. As an emerging market debt intern at a Japanese bank in the late nineties, Jeremy observed (but did not directly cause) the Asian Financial Crisis.
Jeremy graduated with a BA in Asian Studies and Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and holds a Masters of Pacific International Affairs from the School of International Relations and Pacific Studies at the University of California, San Diego. He has earned the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst®, Certified Private Wealth Advisor ® and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst ® designations.
Jeremy lives with his wife in San Francisco and Sonoma, CA, and enjoys world travel (53 countries and counting), audiobooks, and the occasional glass of wine.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Portfolio Manager & Director
Jennifer K. Loveless
Jennifer Loveless, CFP®1, serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team with a specialty in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. In her role, Jennifer meets with current and potential clients to establish and implement investment and financial planning strategies based on their unique goals. Using her expertise to analyze each client’s financial picture through a holistic framework, Jennifer can better assess their specific needs and successfully plan for their near- and long-term time horizon. Jennifer is also a member of the Investment Policy Committee and contributes to RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection process.
As an ESG specialist, Jennifer coordinates directly with the CIO to conduct research and due diligence on third party managers for the firm’s ESG platform. She also is a key contributor to RWA’s ESG thought leadership and education pieces.
Prior to joining RWA, Jennifer was a Wealth Advisor for Boston Private Wealth and its predecessors, Banyan Partners and Silver Bridge Advisors. In this role, she was responsible for investment management and ongoing financial planning for her clients. Jennifer began her career as an Operations Analyst at Brown Brothers Harriman.
Jennifer graduated with a BS in Business Administration from Boston University and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. She is a Board Member of The Harvard Kent Leadership & Scholarship Partnership, Inc., an organization whose mission is to sponsor and fund programs at the Harvard-Kent Elementary School in Charlestown, MA that enhance the educational opportunities and experiences for children who attend this school.
In her free time, Jennifer is a dedicated volunteer with Year Up, Inc., Junior Achievement, and the MSPCA. She resides in Charlestown and enjoys hiking with her dog, Louie, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
1 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or CFP® certification is granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (“CFP Board”). Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university and three years of full-time personal financial planning experience. To receive CFP® certification, candidates must complete a CFP Board Registered Program or hold an accepted designation , degree or license; pass the CFP® Certification Examination; and agree to be bound by CFP Board’s Standards of Professional Conduct. In addition, a CFP® professional must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. More information about CFP® certification is available at https://www.cfp.net.
Investment Analyst
Christopher A. Newton
Christopher (“Chris”) Newton serves as an Investment Analyst at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team and Investment Policy Committee. In his role, Chris works with the Investment Team on the formulation of the investment philosophy and process, assists Portfolio Managers with the implementation of client investment objectives, and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Chris performs attribution analysis on behalf of clients, especially as it relates to concentrated positions, and is a key contributor to the investment process and manager due diligence efforts in support of Portfolio Managers and the CIO.
Previously, Chris worked at AEW Capital Management as a member of the Real Estate Securities group. In this role, he was responsible for providing client reporting as well as review and analysis of investment portfolio information. Chris began his career in financial services at Brown Brothers Harriman.
Chris graduated with a BA in Economics from Trinity College, where he was a Summit Scholar. He is a CFA®1 charterholder and is a member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society Boston.
Chris resides in Melrose with his wife and enjoys golf, reading, and spending time with his family and friends.
1 Chartered Financial Analyst® or CFA® designation is a professional certification offered by the CFA Institute. In order to earn the CFA® designation, candidates must complete a series of three exams, possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or have equivalent education or work experience as w ell as 4 years of qualified, professional work experience. CFA® charterholders are also obligated to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards governing their professional conduct. More information about the CFA® designation is available at CFA Program (cfainstitute.org).
Portfolio Manager & Director
Michael J. Stevens
Michael Stevens serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In this role, he meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his client’s investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Michael performs equity security analysis on behalf of clients and is a key contributor to the trading and analysis of individual equity securities and options, especially as it relates to concentrated client positions. Additionally, he oversees all aspects of trading and our third-party brokerage relationships to help ensure best execution for our clients. Michael plays an integral role in RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection effort, and is a member of the Investment Policy Committee.
Prior to joining RWA, Michael was an investment analyst at Foster Dykema Cabot & Co., Inc., a high-net-worth registered investment adviser and multi-family office in Boston. He was responsible for all trading and supported the firm’s research efforts in equity, fixed income, and liquid alternatives. Prior to that, Michael was employed by Silver Bridge Capital Management LLC as Head Trader and a key contributor to the firm’s investment team, with focus on U.S. Large Cap equity and liquid alternative investment strategies. Michael also served on the Asset Allocation Committee at Silver Bridge Capital Management. Michael began his career at Fidelity Investments, within the Pricing and Cash Management Services group, providing operational support and accounting to institutional investment advisers.
Michael earned a BS in Finance from Syracuse University. He is a member of the Inner-City Scholarship Fund Professional’s Team, notably organizing visits for Greater Boston high school students to RWA to discuss career paths and college planning. Born and raised in Milton, Michael lives there with his wife and three daughters, and coaches youth soccer and basketball for the town. Michael also serves on the board of St. Mary of the Hills Church in Milton. Michael is an Eagle Scout, enjoys music and being outdoors, especially boating and skiing, and most importantly, spending time with his family and friends.
Financial Planning
Winfield C. Grimm
Olivia Allen
Blake M. Russell
Director of Family Office Financial Planning
Winfield C. Grimm
Winfield (“Win”) Grimm serves as Director of Family Office Financial Planning for RWA Family Office. In this role, Win is responsible for designing and implementing financial plans for our individual and family clients, and he works closely with other members of the Family Office Financial Planning team. Win is a key firm resource on our chosen financial planning software, eMoney, and uses this technology to maximize our clients’ connectivity to their wealth and retirement goals. Win also partners with RWA’s investment and client service professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that various aspects of their wealth management plans are implemented.
Prior to joining RWA in 2015, Win was as an Assistant Financial Analyst at AIG and as a Finance Co-op at L-3 Communications. At AIG he researched and analyzed small insurance companies for AIG to reinsure, as well as reviewed process records using statistical analysis to locate errors. At L-3 he worked in accounts payable, maintained airfare, tax and freight spreadsheets and performed inventory matching on a daily basis.
Win earned an MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business and a BS in Business Administration from Northeastern University. Originally from Martha’s Vineyard, Win currently resides in Boston, though he goes back to the island as often as he can. He enjoys playing pickup basketball, estate sales, and paddle boarding.
Financial Planning Associate
Olivia Allen
Financial Planning Associate
Blake M. Russell
Blake Russell serves as a Financial Planning Analyst for RWA Family Office. In this role, Blake works closely with the Director of Family Office Financial Planning to prepare financial projections, implement financial plans, address client needs, and maintain client relationships.
Prior to joining RWA, Blake worked as an intern at 1st Financial Bank USA working in their finance department and with their loan group. Blake updated management information reports as well as fee analysis and risk forecasting reports. He handled multiple stages of the underwriting process for commercial loans including background checks, experience verification, risk evasion, and completing and submitting the credit memo to the bank’s credit committee.
Blake graduated from Bentley University with a BS in Economics and Finance. He is from Marblehead, MA and has a passion for many activities including skiing, soccer, golf, and playing chess.
Operations/Client Services
Jillian DeMelo
Svetlana Finn (Lana)
Shannon W. Groppi
Rajaa Habib
Valerie A. Katz
Sarah A. Kritikos
Hermia Ivy Fong Lo
Michael E. Martin
Erin M. O’Brien
Angela Roof
Michael F. Richardi
Vikram Sambharya
Lesley B. Stewart
Beth C. Thorpe
Hamilton H. Wood III
Client Administrator
Jillian DeMelo
Jillian DeMelo is a Client Administrator at RWA Family Office. Jillian provides critical administrative and operational support to our successful individual, family, endowment, and foundation clients. She partners with RWA investment, financial planning, and client service professionals, as well as with trustees and clients’ external advisors, to ensure that all aspects of their wealth management plan needs are implemented and supported. Jillian is dedicated to providing clients with the highest level of client service.
Prior to joining RWA, Jillian worked as National Settlement Coordinator at Manning Gross & Massenburg, LLP, where she was responsible for settlement management that included preparation of settlement documents, retrieval of supporting settlements documents, and payment of funds, as well as an annual audit of open claims.
Jillian earned a degree in Business Administration at Temple University and studied abroad in Rome, Italy. Jillian is currently working on obtaining dual citizenship in Italy. She enjoys reading, traveling, and great food and coffee.
Family Office Sr. Client Officer
Svetlana Finn (Lana)
Lana Finn is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Lana has over 10 years of experience in wealth management, where her career has focused on serving the needs of successful individuals, families, endowments, and foundations. Lana works with clients to help manage the planning and administrative aspects of their wealth and is dedicated to the highest level of client service. Lana partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Before joining RWA, Lana spent 10 years with Grimes & Company, Inc. Prior to Grimes, Lana worked at Northwestern Mutual, specializing in life, disability, and long-term care insurance.
Lana earned a BS degree from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She majored in Finance & Operations Management with a minor in Economics.
Lana resides in Bellingham with her husband and two children. Always outdoors, Lana loves to spend her time hiking, snowboarding, and gardening.
Family Office Sr. Client Officer
Shannon W. Groppi
Shannon Groppi is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Shannon has over 20 years of experience in wealth management, where her career has focused on serving the needs of successful individuals, families, endowments, and foundations. Shannon works with clients to help manage the planning and administrative aspects of their wealth and is dedicated to the highest level of client service. Shannon partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Before joining RWA, Shannon spent three years at Ropes & Gray LLP in the Private Client Group as a Senior Trust Client Service Administrator. Prior to joining Ropes & Gray, Shannon was a client service and operations professional at UBS, Silver Bridge Advisors LLC, and Atlantic Trust Company where she held various roles within each firm.
Shannon earned a BS from Bridgewater State College in 1996.
Shannon resides in Wakefield with her husband and three young daughters, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Client Administrator
Rajaa Habib
As a Client Administrator at RWA Family Office, Rajaa Habib provides critical administrative support to our team of Client Officers. In this role, Rajaa is responsible for responding to client requests, initiating financial or account related transactions, onboarding new clients, maintaining client records, and managing short-term projects. With substantial experience in financial services and business development, Rajaa is dedicated to providing clients with the highest level of service.
Prior to joining RWA, Rajaa has held several positions in the banking and investment management fields. In her most recent role as executive assistant to the president of South Shore Investment Services, Rajaa served as a trusted liaison with advisors and clients. At both Citizens Bank and PNC Bank, Rajaa leveraged her international background and interpersonal skills to lead business sales in a highly competitive environment. Before emigrating to the United States, Rajaa spent over 17 years in various management, marketing, sales and consulting roles in Morocco and Europe, including France, Cyprus, Sweden and Italy.
A Moroccan native, Rajaa holds an MBA in Luxury Management from EDC Paris, France, and earned her Bachelor’s degree in corporate finance and audit from an elite business school in Morocco (ISCAE).
Rajaa is fluent in multiple languages: English, French and several Arabic dialects. She is passionate about NASCAR, cooking, and trying new food with her joyful, full of life daughter!
Family Office Sr. Client Officer
Valerie A. Katz
Valerie Katz is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Val has over 35 years of experience in wealth management, where her career has focused on serving the needs of successful individuals, families, endowments, and foundations. Val works with clients to help manage the planning and administrative aspects of their wealth and is dedicated to the highest level of client service. Val partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Before joining RWA, Val spent 30 years at Ropes & Gray LLP in Trust Administration and Trust Operations. Val held positions of Senior Trust Client Service Administrator and Portfolio Trader.
Val is a graduate of Cannon Trust School and enjoys ballroom dance classes in her spare time.
Family Office Sr. Client Officer
Sarah A. Kritikos
Sarah Kritikos is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Sarah works with clients to help manage the planning and administrative aspects of their wealth and is dedicated to the highest level of client service. Sarah partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Prior to joining RWA, Sarah was a Fiduciary Legal Administrator with the Private Client Group at Ropes & Gray and previously worked as an associate attorney for a trusts and estates firm. Sarah earned her BA from Stonehill College and her JD and LLM in Taxation from Suffolk University Law School.
Sarah lives in Revere with her husband and two cats (Batman and Thor). In her free time, Sarah volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts and enjoys reading novels for her book club.
Client Service Administrator
Hermia Ivy Fong Lo
Ivy Lo is a Client Service Administrator at RWA Family Office. With extensive experience in wealth management, Ivy’s career has focused on serving the needs of successful individuals, families, endowments, and foundations. Working with clients to help manage the planning and administrative aspects of their wealth, she is dedicated to the highest level of client service. Ivy partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Previously, Ivy administered trusts in various assistant roles at Ropes & Gray LLP, including as a Trust Administrator within the Private Client Group. Prior to joining Ropes & Gray, Ivy worked for Investor’s Bank & Trust serving clients consisting of Wealth Management Firms and Corporations with Trust and Estate Accounts. Ivy started her career as an associate at State Street Global Advisors in the Shareholder Services Group, where she performed financial and analytical operations for portfolio managers, as well as reporting trading activity to investment managers and clients.
Ivy earned a BA from Eastern Nazarene College. She completed trust school at Cannon Financial Institute and is currently pursuing a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor’s certification.
Ivy resides in Braintree with her husband and two children, and enjoys spending time with her family and running.
Family Office Sr. Client Officer
Michael E. Martin
Michael (“Mike”) Martin, CFP®1 is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Mike assists clients with planning and administrative aspects of their wealth management. Mike partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Mike’s career in financial services has focused on serving the needs of individuals, families and business owners. Before joining RWA, Mike assisted clients as a Financial Planning Specialist and Trust Administrator at J.M. Forbes and Co. LLP, a Retirement Investment Specialist at Fidelity Investments and a Tax Accountant at Ropes & Gray LLP in the Private Client Group.
Mike earned a BS in Business Administration from Northeastern University. Mike is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certificant and has earned the Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation.
Mike resides in Cambridge with his wife and enjoys spending time on the Cape, competing in triathlons and paddle boarding. Mike was a board member of Cape Cod MOVES which is a non-profit raising funds through activities to distribute to other non-profits serving the Cape and Islands. Mike is a member of the Falmouth Walk Committee which hosts events each year to raise funds for Falmouth charities. Mike is a member of the L Street Running Club, the Falmouth Track Club and the Cape Cod Triathlon Team. Mike also has enjoyed volunteering for the Falmouth Service Center which helps those in need in the community with food donations, financial support and professional counsel. Mike has volunteered as an instructor for the Credit for Life Fair which helps high school students develop personal financial management skills that they will use throughout their lives.
1 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or CFP® certification is granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (“CFP Board”). Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university and three years of full-time personal financial planning experience. To receive CFP® certification, candidates must complete a CFP Board Registered Program or hold an accepted designation, degree or license; pass the CFP® Certification Examination; and agree to be bound by CFP Board’s Standards of Professional Conduct. In addition, a CFP® professional must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. More information about CFP® certification is available at https://www.cfp.net.
Family Office Client Officer
Erin M. O’Brien
Erin O’Brien is a Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Erin works with clients to help them manage the administrative aspects of their wealth and is dedicated to the highest level of client service. She partners with investment and financial planning professionals as well as with trustees and clients’ external advisors to ensure that all aspects of their wealth management plans are implemented and supported.
Previously, Erin held positions as Client Service Specialist and Client Administrator at RWA. She joined Ropes & Gray LLP in 2017 as a Client Services Assistant. Erin began her career as a Retail Flex Banker at The Washington Trust Company, where she provided customer service and was responsible for handling a broad range of transactions, working on account services, understanding financial products, and offering guidance to local customers and businesses.
Erin earned her BA from the University of Rhode Island, where she studied Public Relations. Erin resides in Boston with her Goldendoodle named Grady.
Family Office Sr. Client Officer
Angela Roof
Angela Roof is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Angela works with clients to help manage the planning and administrative aspects of their wealth and is dedicated to the highest level of client service. Angela partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Angela has over 10 years of client service and operations experience. Prior to joining RWA, Angela was a Senior Registered Client Service Associate at Morgan Stanley and previously worked at Fidelity Investments and Acadian Asset Management.
Angela earned her BS in Financial Management from Franklin Pierce University. Angela lives in Charlestown with her Frenchton (Frenchie Boston mix) named Nora.
Director of Family Office Operations
Michael F. Richardi
Michael (“Mike”) Richardi serves as RWA’s Director of Family Office Operations. In this role, Mike integrates client service and back-office operations to provide a comprehensive end client experience related to all financial services offerings. He works closely with the various asset custodians and internal teams, keeping processes and offerings up to date. Mike also brings extensive experience in complex estate settlements to RWA, specializing in the management of estate and ongoing trust relationships for clients. Mike works closely and cooperatively with clients, families, and the fiduciary partners, always striving to deliver exceptional service throughout the estate settlement process. He is dedicated to providing a smooth transition and efficient execution of financial estate plans from the funding and management of estate and trust accounts through final settlement.
Mike joined RWA in 2020 after spending four years with Ropes & Gray’s Estate Settlement group. Prior to joining Ropes & Gray, Mike practiced as an attorney, focusing on civil litigation and real estate transactions.
Mike remains a lawyer in good standing in Massachusetts, having earned a JD summa cum laude from Suffolk University Law School, and a BA cum laude in English from Villanova University. While at Suffolk, he served as a content editor for the Journal of High Technology Law. Mike currently resides in Boston and enjoys a balance of skiing in the winter and boating in the summer.
Family Office Client Officer
Vikram Sambharya
Vikram (“Vik”) Sambharya is a Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Vik has been working with clients in financial services since 2015. He manages client relationships and provides administrative support to our successful individual, family, endowment, and foundation clients. Vik partners with Ropes Wealth investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that all aspects of their wealth management plan needs are implemented and supported.
Prior to joining RWA, Vik worked in fund accounting and custody as an Accounting and Reporting Specialist in BNY Mellon’s Asset Servicing business. The role involved striking daily NAVs of funds held in retirement plans. He began his financial services career as an intern at Pershing, a BNY Mellon company, in their Managed Investments group.
Vik earned a BS in Business Administration from Boston University and his MBA from Boston College. He resides in Allston and enjoys working out at the neighborhood gym.
Senior Estate Client Services Administrator
Lesley B. Stewart
As a Senior Estate Client Services Administrator for RWA Family Office, Lesley Stewart is responsible for the administration of estate and trust accounts, generally including accounts of a highly sensitive or more complex nature. Lesley works in collaboration with other estate administration professionals, estate tax accountants, the Investment Management and Client Service teams at RWA, and clients to identify, value, collect, and distribute assets according to a decedent’s estate plan and to complete the required estate, individual, and fiduciary tax filings. She organizes the daily administrative tasks of an estate, such as controlling the bills and cash flow, while providing the support fiduciaries and families need during estate settlements.
Lesley joined RWA in 2023, having spent more than 16 years with Ropes & Gray LLP, most recently as a Senior Estate Client Services Administrator. Prior to Ropes & Gray LLP, she worked with Deutsche Bank and State Street Bank & Trust.
Lesley graduated from Villanova University with a BA in Economics.
Lesley resides in Wayland with her husband and two children, is a board member and current president of Wayland Youth Soccer, and otherwise keeps healthy by competing in local sprint triathlons.
Family Office Sr. Client Officer
Beth C. Thorpe
Beth Thorpe is a Senior Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Beth has over 30 years of experience in wealth management, where her career has focused on serving the needs of successful individuals, families, endowments, and foundations. Beth works with clients to help manage the planning and administrative aspects of their wealth and is dedicated to the highest level of client service. Beth partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Before joining RWA, Beth was a Senior Trust Client Services Administrator at Ropes & Gray for almost 20 years. Prior to Ropes & Gray, she was an Associate Vice President and Trust Officer at the Washington Trust Company.
Beth earned her BS in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University. She lives in Milford, MA and is active in her church, the Faith Community Church of Hopkinton.
Family Office Client Officer
Hamilton H. Wood III
Hamilton Wood, CFP®1, ChFC®2, is a Client Officer at RWA Family Office. Hamilton brings extensive experience to his role at RWA where he assists clients with planning and administrative aspects of their wealth management. Hamilton partners with RWA investment and financial planning professionals, trustees, and clients’ external advisors to ensure that a comprehensive and customized wealth plan is established and implemented.
Hamilton’s career in financial services has focused on serving the needs of clients within the Investor Services area of the industry. Before joining RWA, Hamilton spent nine years at State Street. Prior to working at State Street, Hamilton spent ten years at Deutsche Asset Management. Hamilton’s career began at Pioneer Investments as a Pricing Analyst.
Hamilton earned a BA in Political Science from the University of Vermont, where he was a member of the Men’s Varsity Lacrosse team. Hamilton is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certificant and has earned the Charted Financial Consultant® designation.
Hamilton resides in Medfield with his wife and two children. In his free time, he coaches youth soccer and lacrosse, enjoys cooking, being active outside, and spending time with family.
1 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or CFP® certification is granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (“CFP Board”). Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university and three years of full-time personal financial planning experience. To receive CFP® certification, candidates must complete a CFP Board Registered Program or hold an accepted designation, degree or license; pass the CFP® Certification Examination; and agree to be bound by CFP Board’s Standards of Professional Conduct. In addition, a CFP® professional must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. More information about CFP® certification is available at https://www.cfp.net.
2 Chartered Financial Consultant® or ChFC® designation is conferred by The American College of Financial Services (“The College”). To receive ChFC® certification, candidates must have three years of professional experience; complete eight college-level courses; and agree to be bound by The College’s Code of Ethics. A ChFC® professional must participate in The College’s Professional Recertification Program to maintain the ChFC® designation. More information about ChFC® certification is available at https://www.theamericanco
Fiduciary
Brenda S. Diana
Martin Hall
Emma Wright
Chief Fiduciary Officer
Brenda S. Diana
Brenda Diana is the Chief Fiduciary Officer of RWA, providing expert fiduciary services and estate planning to clients as part of RWA’s offering of trust and estate administration. Brenda serves as trustee for numerous trusts, as executor for estates of varying size and complexity, and has extensive experience working with working with high net worth individuals and multiple generations of families with accumulated wealth.
In addition, Brenda, together with Martin Hall, are partners of Hall and Diana LLP, a boutique law firm specializing in domestic and international estate, tax, and charitable planning, estate settlement, and fiduciary administration.
Prior to joining RWA in 2023, Brenda was co-leader of Ropes & Gray LLP’s private client group, having joined the private client group in 1988 and becoming a partner of the firm in 1996. She served as trustee for numerous trusts, concentrating on representing fiduciaries in the settlement of estates and preparing estate plans for individuals. Her practice included working with high net worth individuals, multiple generations of families with accumulated wealth, entrepreneurs, private and public company executives and shareholders, and professional public personalities. Her practice involved the administration of client estates and trusts, including post-mortem tax planning and rendering advice regarding fiduciary responsibilities. As executor for estates of varying size and complexity, Brenda helped clients through diverse personal transitions and provided advice on risk management, fiduciary investments and efficient tax alternatives to avoid potential issues or disputes. Her expertise includes the coordination of the proper disposition of individual and family assets including art, antiques, real estate and other valuables and works with well-known auction houses and advisors when appropriate. Brenda advised clients on various charitable and philanthropic endeavors and worked closely with financial planners and philanthropic advisors to develop comprehensive plans to meet the unique needs of her clients. For many years, Brenda was a member of Ropes & Gray’s Hiring Committee and Associates Liaison Committee.
Passionate about pro bono work and community service, Brenda serves as chair of the board of directors at Project Citizenship, a nonprofit focused on providing free legal services to immigrants, and sits on the advisory board of directors for My Life My Choice, an organization dedicated to ending the commercial sexual exploitation of children. Brenda resides with her family in Wellesley.
Managing Director of Legal Services
Martin Hall
Martin Hall serves as Managing Director of Legal Services for RWA. In this role, Martin oversees fiduciary services provided to clients as part of RWA’s offering of trust and estate administration. Martin is also a founding partner of Hall & Diana LLC, a boutique trust and estates law firm in Boston.
Prior to joining RWA, Martin was with Ropes & Gray LLP for 37 years, serving as a partner of the firm from 1994 to 2023 and as the Chair of its Private Client Group from 2006 to 2023. He was instrumental in setting up RWA as a registered investment adviser in 2014.
Martin’s legal practice is concentrated in the areas of wealth management, estate planning, trust and estate administration, and charitable giving. He is a member of the American Bar Association (Tax Section) and was Chair of the Tax Section’s Estate and Gift Taxes Committee from 2008 until 2010. He is also a fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) and was the Chair of ACTEC’s Charitable Planning and Exempt Organizations Committee from 2010 until 2013 and the President of the ACTEC Foundation from 2014 until 2017. Martin was the Chair of the New England Estate Planning Conference (organized by Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education) from 2007 through 2012, and a founding member of the Professional Advisors Committee to The Boston Foundation, serving as the Committee’s initial Chair from 2000-2008. In 2020, The Planned Giving Group of New England awarded Martin the David M. Donaldson Distinguished Service Award for his “outstanding service and leadership in the field of charitable gift planning”.
Martin is a co-author of The Harvard Manual on the Tax Aspects of Charitable Giving (9th ed. 2011) and of Practical Guide to Estate Planning (CCH 2022). He is a frequent speaker at national and local charitable giving and estate planning programs and has been quoted on various charitable tax matters in The Wall Street Journal.
Martin holds law degrees from Cambridge University and Boston University School of Law. He was a visiting fellow and lecturer in law at the University of Chicago Law School in 1982-83.
Martin, his wife, Sarita, and their daughters, Sofia and Olivia, live in Boston.
Associate
Emma Wright
As an Associate for RWA, Emma Wright provides expert fiduciary services and estate planning to clients as part of RWA’s offering of trust and estate administration. Emma’s responsibilities include all aspects of estate and individual planning, including sophisticated wealth and gift transfers, complex estate planning strategies, and estate and trust administration. Emma works closely with clients to create and administer estate plans that provide practical and tailored solutions to their individual needs. In creating an estate plan, she focuses on building ongoing relationships with her clients and their families to ensure that their goals continue to be met over time and as their circumstances evolve.
In addition to her role at RWA, Emma is an associate of Hall and Diana LLP, a boutique law firm specializing in domestic and international estate, tax, and charitable planning, estate settlement, and fiduciary administration. Prior to joining RWA in 2023, Emma was an associate in the Private Client Group at Ropes & Gray LLP and an associate at Hemenway & Barnes LLP.
Outside of the office, you can find Emma at Pilates class, walking the Boston harbor with her dog, cheering on the Boston Celtics, or searching for flight deals.
Tax Services
Helen Phillips (Eileen)
Arianna Witham
Tax Manager
Helen Phillips (Eileen)
As Tax Manager for RWA Tax Solutions, Helen (“Eileen”) Phillips is responsible for the administration of systems and procedures designed to ensure timely and accurate filing of tax returns, payment of tax liabilities, and the timely and accurate billing of chargeable services related to any accounts for which RWA Tax Solutions has responsibility. Eileen is also responsible for record keeping of tax filings and providing general administrative and clerical support to RWA Tax Solutions.
Eileen joined RWA Tax Solutions in 2023, having spent 20 years in the Tax Operations group of Ropes & Gray LLP, most recently as Senior Tax Administrator. Prior to her career with Ropes & Gray, Eileen was a Trust & Estates Assistant with Hill & Barlow and has extensive experience in office management and accounts payable.
Eileen resides in Everett and enjoys socializing and traveling with friends, especially to visit family in her native country of Ireland., and her hobbies include knitting and sewing.
Tax Administrator
Arianna Witham
As a Tax Administrator for RWA Tax Solutions, Arianna Witham works closely with her team to administer the systems and procedures designed to ensure timely and accurate filing of tax returns, payment of tax liabilities, and the timely and accurate billing of chargeable services related to any accounts for which RWA Tax Solutions has responsibility. Arianna is also responsible for recordkeeping of tax filings and providing general administrative and clerical support to RWA Tax Solutions.
Arianna joined RWA Tax Solutions in 2024. Prior to this role, she had been providing administrative support in the real estate field.
Arianna graduated from Utah Tech University with a BS in English.
Arianna resides in Boston and enjoys reading, trying new recipes, and tending to her many house plants.
Business Administration / Trust Operations / Data
Saori Takahashi
Julia M. Salemme
Sr. Business Administrator
Saori Takahashi
Saori Takahashi serves as the Sr. Business Administrator at RWA Family Office. In this role, she is responsible for providing crucial support to the strategic initiatives of RWA and leadership related to all aspects of business and office operations. Saori also assists her investment, financial planning, operations, compliance, and client services colleagues with various aspects of administrative and client service support.
Prior to joining RWA, Saori was an Accounts Receivable Coordinator at Barkan Management, a real estate construction, development, and property management company. In an earlier role, Saori provided administrative support at Silver Bridge Advisors LLC to the entire team including executives, the client service team, and the investment team.
Saori earned an MS in Actuarial Science, a BS in Mathematics, and an International Business Management Certificate from Boston University. She also teaches at the Japanese Language School of Greater Boston where she has provided Japanese and mathematics instruction since 2007. Saori is a member of Boston Cares and volunteers at local libraries as a tutor in English and mathematics for GED exams. Saori recently traveled to Tanzania as a part of International Volunteer HQ to teach local elementary school students in 2018.
Originally from Japan, Saori resides in Maynard with her boyfriend, and is a proud mother to a daughter in her twenties. She loves to cook and bake, enjoys reading, and spending time with her family and friends.
Sr. Business Administrator
Julia M. Salemme
Julia Salemme is a Sr. Business Administrator at RWA Family Office. Julia provides critical administrative and operational support to our successful individual, family, endowment, and foundation clients. Julia partners with RWA investment, financial planning, and client service professionals, as well as trustees and clients’ external advisors to help ensure all aspects of their wealth management plan needs are implemented and supported.
Julia is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Her prior experiences include employment, internships and community service engagements with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Town of Winchester, MA and charitable organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Relay for Life. These experiences, along with her baccalaureate education and international study in Rome and Amsterdam, have helped to formulate and hone her strong passion and commitment to client service and teamwork. These skills and background serve Julia well in the trusted advisor model employed at RWA.
In her free time, Julia enjoys outdoor activities, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Family Office Trust Operations
Linda M. Darsney
Grace Lee
Jack W. Morefield
Colin C. Tarpey
Business Operations Specialist
Linda M. Darsney
Linda Darsney serves as a Business Operations Specialist at RWA Family Office. In her role, she is responsible for providing operational support related to the firm’s investment and business functions. She is particularly responsible for the calculation and assessment of fees for all of RWA clients, as well as critical account maintenance and audits. Linda also supports the monitoring of the omnibus custody account RWA maintains with our key vendor and qualified custodian, SEI Private Trust Company, as well as critical securities processing functions.
Prior to joining RWA, Linda worked as a Trust Client Services Assistant for Ropes & Gray, providing support for the Private Client Group. She also gained extensive experience working in both the public and private sector, where she served in the positions of Securities Accountant, Staff Accountant and Senior Accountant.
Linda earned a BS degree in Accounting from Boston College. She resides in Rowley, Mass with her husband and two children, including one recent college graduate, and her beloved dogs.
Operations Administrator
Grace Lee
Grace Lee serves as an Operations Administrator for RWA Family Office. She is responsible for providing operational and administrative support to individuals, families, and institutions as part of our dedicated team delivering wealth management and client services. In this role, she processes various client account transactions and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems.
Prior to joining RWA, Grace interned with the Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee and served as a Peer Advocate at her university’s Rape Crisis Center. In these positions, Grace was responsible or various administrative tasks such as filing, data-entry, and maintaining databases. Previously, she has volunteered with the Borgen Project advocating for anti-poverty bills and with 7 Elements where she served low-income communities in the Dominican Republic. Through these diverse experiences, Grace has developed her passion for advocacy and client service.
Grace graduated from Brandeis University with a BA in International and Global Studies, and a minor in Legal Studies. She is originally from Nashua, New Hampshire. In her free time, she loves to cook, read, do hip hop dance, and go on long runs.
Investment Operations Specialist
Jack W. Morefield
Jack Morefield serves as an Investment Operations Specialist for RWA Family Office. In this role, Jack processes all types of client account transactions, and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems. He also provides support to the Portfolio Managers by administering investment-related technology. Working with the Portfolio Trading Senior Officer, Jack coordinates and monitors the trading and timely settlement of the transactions of separate account managers and external investment advisers that RWA or its clients have engaged.
Prior to RWA, Jack was a Portfolio Trader with Ropes & Gray since 2001 and provided notable leadership in software solutions and technology.
Jack resides in Newton with his wife and two sons, and is an accomplished painter and musician.
Operations Administrator
Colin C. Tarpey
Colin Tarpey serves as an Operations Administrator for RWA Family Office. He is responsible for providing operational support and administration to individuals, families, and institutions as part of our dedicated team delivering wealth management and client services. In this role, Colin processes all types of client account transactions, and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems.
Colin is a proud graduate of Norwich University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets. Colin received his degree in Political Science. Prior to joining RWA, he worked for Fidelity and Bank of America.
Colin resides in Cohasset with his wife. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, going to the beach, and spending time with his family and friends.
Investments - leadership
Joseph E. Powers
Chief Investment Officer
Joseph E. Powers
Joseph (JP) Powers serves as chief investment officer for RWA Wealth Partners, where he’s responsible for overseeing and implementing the firm’s overall investment strategy. In this role, he leads the investment team in making asset allocation decisions and directing investment and manager selection on behalf of all clients. JP also works directly with clients, apprising them of global economic and market activity and its implications for their specific and customized investment strategies. JP leverages his analytical abilities to drive key elements of the firm’s investment technology platform, including researching and implementing new systems and software to continually improve the efficiency of the investment trading platform and enhance the client experience of performance reporting.
JP chairs the Investment Policy Committee and is also a member of the Business Oversight Committee.
Previously, JP was portfolio manager and director at Ropes Wealth Advisors. Prior to Ropes Wealth, he was the director of fixed income for Silver Bridge Advisors (now Boston Private Wealth). As director of fixed income, JP focused on fixed income portfolio construction, research, and trading in both the taxable and tax-exempt fixed income sectors. Before joining the fixed income team, JP spent several years supporting the company’s equity research efforts as an analyst for the technology, telecommunications and consumer staples sectors while overseeing the firm’s equity trading desk. JP began his career with State Street Corporation.
JP earned an MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business and a B.S. in business administration from the University of New Hampshire. He was the winner of the Sandra A. F. Harper award from the BU Questrom program, which honors the student who best exemplifies community contribution and leadership within the graduating class.
JP resides in Dover, MA, with his wife and young son, and he enjoys sports, travel, and spending time with his family and friends. He divides his time between Boston and New Hampshire whenever possible.
Investment Strategies
Charlie Toole
Zachary Ganz
Chris Keith
Rowan Niemela
Matthew Erickson
Terrence C. Tedeschi
Gabe Reale
Christopher A. Newton
Josh Jurbala
Shruti Bansal
Jeremy Lehrer, CFA®, CPWA®, CAIA®
Jennifer K. Loveless
Michael J. Stevens
Director of Portfolio Management
Charlie Toole
Charlie is portfolio manager for RWA Wealth Partners’ dividend growth strategies, and he serves as a member of the firm’s Senior Investment Committee. He joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2017 upon its acquisition of Braver Wealth Management. An engineer by training, Charlie has more than a decade of investment experience, and his commentary on the economy, markets and dividend stocks has appeared in Barron’s, Forbes and Investor’s Business Daily. Prior to joining Braver in 2006, he held positions with Boston Engineering Corporation and Parametric Technology Corp. as a consultant to technology and manufacturing firms. He holds a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and an M.S. in mechanical engineering from Northeastern University. Charlie is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award*. He earned his Chartered Financial Analyst® designation in 2008 and has been a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional since 2011. He is a member of the CFA Institute and the Boston Securities Analysts Society (BSAS).
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on our website.
Associate Portfolio Manager
Zachary Ganz
As an Associate Portfolio Manager for RWA Wealth Partners, Zachary Ganz manages the RWA Global Growth strategy and provides analysis across the firm’s investment platform with a special focus on the financial and information technology sectors. He is a member of RWA Wealth Partners’ Investment Team.
Previously, Zachary was head of trading and a research analyst for Polaris Wealth Advisory Group until its acquisition by RWA Wealth Partners in 2022. Before joining Polaris, he served as a consultant specializing in finance, where he advised various departments at a major European bank and one of the world’s largest pension funds.
Zachary received his BS in economics from Lund University in Sweden, which consistently ranks in the top 100 QS World University Rankings.
In his spare time, Zachary enjoys cooking, exercising and scuba diving with his wife Sandra.
Senior Vice President, Fixed Income Manager
Chris Keith
Chris manages RWA Wealth Partners’ fixed income portfolios and is a member of the Portfolio Review Committee. He joined RWA Wealth Partners upon the firm’s 2011 acquisition of Kobren Insight Management (KIM), where he’d served as vice president and fixed income manager since 2001. Prior to joining KIM, Chris was a vice president in the Private Client Services Group of Robertson Stephens, where he designed and implemented fixed income portfolios for high-net-worth clients. Chris was also the head fixed income trader for Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette’s New England region. Chris is a 2013 recipient of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award. He graduated from Northeastern University.
Research Analyst
Rowan Niemela
Rowan is a research analyst at RWA Wealth Partners. He is responsible for individual equity research, data analysis and providing insights to support the investment management team’s decision-making process. Prior to joining RWA in 2025, he worked as an equity research associate for Manning & Napier, an asset manager based in Rochester, NY.
Rowan received his B.S. in financial economics from the University of Rochester. In his free time, he loves to play sports, particularly basketball and golf, and read fiction novels.
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Senior Portfolio Manager
Matthew Erickson
Matt is a member of RWA Wealth Partners’ Wealth Investment Committee and functions as our senior portfolio manager. Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners, Matt ran his own investment management firm, Renaissance Capital Management in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In 2014, Wiley published Matt’s first book, Asset Rotation, which discusses the burgeoning ETF marketplace and provides readers with the tools necessary to reduce risk and optimize returns in a managed ETF portfolio. Matt is a contributor to SeekingAlpha.com, and he has also been featured on MarketWatch.com and in InvestmentNews and Yahoo Finance, among others.
Matt received his Bachelor of Science in business administration from Colorado Technical University, graduating summa cum laude.
In his free time, Matt enjoys sports, playing piano and guitar, hiking, swimming, cycling, and spending quality time with family and friends. He currently lives in Canton, Michigan, with his daughter, Mackenzie and son, Jacob.
Portfolio Manager, Director of Manager Research
Terrence C. Tedeschi
Terrence C. Tedeschi serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director of Manager Research at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In his role, he meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements his clients’ investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Terrence performs equity security analysis on behalf of our clients and is a key contributor to the trading and analysis of individual equity securities, especially as it relates to concentrated client positions. As a key member of the Investment Policy Committee, Terrence plays an integral role in RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection effort, and he is responsible for all aspects of performance analysis for RWA’s key investment strategies.
Previously, Terrence was an equity trader and member of the Asset Allocation Committee for Boston Private Wealth, a subsidiary of Boston Bank & Trust. In his role, he was responsible for the trading of all client accounts invested within the firm’s proprietary equity strategies with the responsibility to minimize portfolio drift and ensure adherence with any specific client restrictions or requests. Terrence began his career at US Bank as a portfolio administrator within the Corporate Trust Services division.
Terrence earned a BS in Finance from Bentley University, where he was a member of the golf team. Terrence currently resides in Milton with his wife and two young children. An accomplished golfer, Terrence enjoys all sports, travel, music, and spending time with his family and friends.
Research Analyst
Gabe Reale
Gabe is a research analyst at RWA Wealth Partners. He is responsible for both fund and individual equity research. Prior to starting with RWA Wealth Partners in 2022, he worked as a fund accountant at Advent International, a global private equity firm.
Gabe received his B.S. in finance from Roger Williams University’s Gabelli School of Business. He is an avid sportsman and particularly enjoys lacrosse, golf and skiing.
Investment Analyst
Christopher A. Newton
Christopher (“Chris”) Newton serves as an Investment Analyst at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team and Investment Policy Committee. In his role, Chris works with the Investment Team on the formulation of the investment philosophy and process, assists Portfolio Managers with the implementation of client investment objectives, and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Chris performs attribution analysis on behalf of clients, especially as it relates to concentrated positions, and is a key contributor to the investment process and manager due diligence efforts in support of Portfolio Managers and the CIO.
Previously, Chris worked at AEW Capital Management as a member of the Real Estate Securities group. In this role, he was responsible for providing client reporting as well as review and analysis of investment portfolio information. Chris began his career in financial services at Brown Brothers Harriman.
Chris graduated with a BA in Economics from Trinity College, where he was a Summit Scholar. He is a CFA®1 charterholder and is a member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society Boston.
Chris resides in Melrose with his wife and enjoys golf, reading, and spending time with his family and friends.
1 Chartered Financial Analyst® or CFA® designation is a professional certification offered by the CFA Institute. In order to earn the CFA® designation, candidates must complete a series of three exams, possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or have equivalent education or work experience as w ell as 4 years of qualified, professional work experience. CFA® charterholders are also obligated to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards governing their professional conduct. More information about the CFA® designation is available at CFA Program (cfainstitute.org).
Associate Portfilio Manager, Alternatives
Josh Jurbala
As an Associate Portfolio Manager, Josh is responsible for managing the firm’s tactical strategies, and he works alongside the fundamental research team to provide quantitative support for fund research, portfolio construction and analysis. Josh began his career with RWA Wealth Partners after graduating from Northeastern University in 2013 and worked in the firm’s operations department before joining the research team in 2016. During that time, Josh continued his education by completing an M.S. in finance from Pace University, primarily focused on applying technical and statistical analysis to investing in financial markets. Josh also works with Jim Lowell on the Fidelity Sector Investor newsletter, serving as senior quantitative and technical analyst.
Portfolio Manager & Director
Shruti Bansal
Shruti Bansal serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In her role, she meets with current and potential clients to discuss RWA’s investment philosophy and process. For each client, she helps establish and implement an appropriate investment objective, typically customized within the broader wealth management architecture of the client. Shruti is actively involved in equity security analysis on behalf of clients and manager due diligence across all asset classes. She plays an integral role in RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection effort, and is a member of the Investment Policy Committee.
Shruti brings over 20 years of experience in investment and portfolio management, where she has worked closely with high net-worth clients to provide proactive and unbiased investment advice grounded in intensive and independent research. Her research background covers all asset classes, especially hedge funds, private equity, venture capital, private real estate, and other alternative strategies. Shruti has held various positions at multi-family registered investment advisers, single family offices, pensions, foundations, and insurance companies and has been responsible for thought leadership as well as investment policy and capital allocation decisions.
Shruti earned her BS in Economics from Montclair State University. She is a CFA®1 charter holder and is a member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society Boston. Shruti was born and raised in India and moved to the United States after high school to attend undergraduate college. Shruti volunteers as an Investment Committee member of Rosie’s Place, the first women’s shelter in the U.S., which opened in 1974.
She lives with her husband and two children in Newton, where she is actively involved in the school PTO board. She is busy writing a recipe book which she hopes to publish one day. Apart from creating recipes, she loves growing her own fruits and vegetables in the summer and enjoys hiking and spending time with her family and friends.
1 Chartered Financial Analyst® or CFA® designation is a professional certification offered by the CFA Institute. In order to earn the CFA® designation, candidates must complete a series of three exams, possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or have equivalent education or work experience as well as 4 years of qualified, professional work experience. CFA® charterholders are also obligated to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards governing their professional conduct. More information about the CFA® designation is available at CFA Program (cfainstitute.org).
Portfolio Manager & Director
Jeremy Lehrer, CFA®, CPWA®, CAIA®
Jeremy Lehrer serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In his role, Jeremy meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his client’s investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Jeremy’s breadth of experience in financial services helps shape his commitment to providing exceptional client service.
Previously at Matthews Asia, Jeremy helped investment advisors like RWA better understand investment opportunities in Asian and Emerging Markets. At Charles Schwab, he helped investors understand research resources for their separately managed account platform. As an emerging market debt intern at a Japanese bank in the late nineties, Jeremy observed (but did not directly cause) the Asian Financial Crisis.
Jeremy graduated with a BA in Asian Studies and Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and holds a Masters of Pacific International Affairs from the School of International Relations and Pacific Studies at the University of California, San Diego. He has earned the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst®, Certified Private Wealth Advisor ® and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst ® designations.
Jeremy lives with his wife in San Francisco and Sonoma, CA, and enjoys world travel (53 countries and counting), audiobooks, and the occasional glass of wine.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Portfolio Manager & Director
Jennifer K. Loveless
Jennifer Loveless, CFP®1, serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team with a specialty in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. In her role, Jennifer meets with current and potential clients to establish and implement investment and financial planning strategies based on their unique goals. Using her expertise to analyze each client’s financial picture through a holistic framework, Jennifer can better assess their specific needs and successfully plan for their near- and long-term time horizon. Jennifer is also a member of the Investment Policy Committee and contributes to RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection process.
As an ESG specialist, Jennifer coordinates directly with the CIO to conduct research and due diligence on third party managers for the firm’s ESG platform. She also is a key contributor to RWA’s ESG thought leadership and education pieces.
Prior to joining RWA, Jennifer was a Wealth Advisor for Boston Private Wealth and its predecessors, Banyan Partners and Silver Bridge Advisors. In this role, she was responsible for investment management and ongoing financial planning for her clients. Jennifer began her career as an Operations Analyst at Brown Brothers Harriman.
Jennifer graduated with a BS in Business Administration from Boston University and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. She is a Board Member of The Harvard Kent Leadership & Scholarship Partnership, Inc., an organization whose mission is to sponsor and fund programs at the Harvard-Kent Elementary School in Charlestown, MA that enhance the educational opportunities and experiences for children who attend this school.
In her free time, Jennifer is a dedicated volunteer with Year Up, Inc., Junior Achievement, and the MSPCA. She resides in Charlestown and enjoys hiking with her dog, Louie, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
1 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or CFP® certification is granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (“CFP Board”). Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university and three years of full-time personal financial planning experience. To receive CFP® certification, candidates must complete a CFP Board Registered Program or hold an accepted designation , degree or license; pass the CFP® Certification Examination; and agree to be bound by CFP Board’s Standards of Professional Conduct. In addition, a CFP® professional must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. More information about CFP® certification is available at https://www.cfp.net.
Portfolio Manager & Director
Michael J. Stevens
Michael Stevens serves as a Portfolio Manager and Director at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team. In this role, he meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his client’s investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Michael performs equity security analysis on behalf of clients and is a key contributor to the trading and analysis of individual equity securities and options, especially as it relates to concentrated client positions. Additionally, he oversees all aspects of trading and our third-party brokerage relationships to help ensure best execution for our clients. Michael plays an integral role in RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection effort, and is a member of the Investment Policy Committee.
Prior to joining RWA, Michael was an investment analyst at Foster Dykema Cabot & Co., Inc., a high-net-worth registered investment adviser and multi-family office in Boston. He was responsible for all trading and supported the firm’s research efforts in equity, fixed income, and liquid alternatives. Prior to that, Michael was employed by Silver Bridge Capital Management LLC as Head Trader and a key contributor to the firm’s investment team, with focus on U.S. Large Cap equity and liquid alternative investment strategies. Michael also served on the Asset Allocation Committee at Silver Bridge Capital Management. Michael began his career at Fidelity Investments, within the Pricing and Cash Management Services group, providing operational support and accounting to institutional investment advisers.
Michael earned a BS in Finance from Syracuse University. He is a member of the Inner-City Scholarship Fund Professional’s Team, notably organizing visits for Greater Boston high school students to RWA to discuss career paths and college planning. Born and raised in Milton, Michael lives there with his wife and three daughters, and coaches youth soccer and basketball for the town. Michael also serves on the board of St. Mary of the Hills Church in Milton. Michael is an Eagle Scout, enjoys music and being outdoors, especially boating and skiing, and most importantly, spending time with his family and friends.
Private Wealth Investment Operations
Julianne Catlin
John Fitzpatrick
Shannon Main
Sam Scott
Danielle Shaw
Shelby Sirois
Gunnar Sjostedt
Dennis Williams
Director of Investment Operations
Julianne Catlin
Trading Operations Associate
John Fitzpatrick
Investment Operations Officer
Shannon Main
Trading Operations Associate
Sam Scott
Investment Operations Officer
Danielle Shaw
Trading Operations Associate
Shelby Sirois
Trading Operations Associate
Gunnar Sjostedt
Sr. Performance Analyst
Dennis Williams
Family Office Strategy Implementation Group
Daniel L. Almeida
James J. Danna
Sean C. Turner
Portfolio Manager, Director of Strategy Implementation
Daniel L. Almeida
Daniel Almeida serves as a Portfolio Manager, Director of Strategy Implementation at RWA Family Office and is a member of the firm’s Investment Team and Investment Policy Committee. In his role, he meets with current and potential clients to discuss investment philosophy and process; develops and implements each of his client’s investment objectives; and establishes ongoing portfolio recommendations based on market environment, tax considerations, and individual client objectives. Daniel performs equity security analysis on behalf of clients especially as it relates to concentrated positions and is a key contributor to the individual fixed income management process from portfolio construction to execution. Daniel plays a key role in helping the firm meet its best execution requirements, as well as with RWA’s asset allocation and manager search and selection efforts.
Prior to joining RWA, he was an equity trader for Boston Private Wealth and member of the firm’s Best Execution Committee. In this role, he was responsible for trading all client accounts invested in the firm’s proprietary equity strategies, while focusing on portfolio drift and specific client requirements. Daniel began his career at Boston Private Bank & Trust as a client service associate.
Daniel graduated magna cum laude from Johnson & Wales University, where he was a member of the Silver Key Honor Society, with a BS in Business Management and Business Administration. Daniel earned CFA Level I and is a CFA Level II Candidate.
An avid hockey player and former college goalie, Daniel plays in a number of competitive men’s hockey leagues. Daniel resides in Foxboro with his wife and four children, and enjoys sports, travel, the outdoors, and quality time with his family and friends.
Portfolio Trading Senior Officer
James J. Danna
James (“Jim”) Danna serves as Portfolio Trading Senior Officer for RWA Family Office. In his role, he is responsible for the creation, execution, and oversight of client investment portfolios in conjunction with the Portfolio Managers, preparing and inputting trades with brokers and custodians. Working closely with the Client Officers and Portfolio Managers, Jim plays a critical role in managing cash flows for the clients of RWA. He also coordinates and monitors the trading and implementation process of the separate account managers that RWA has engaged. Jim is a member of the firm’s Investment Team and the Investment Policy Committee, contributing key reporting elements for Investment Policy Committee.
Prior to RWA, Jim was with Ropes & Gray since October 1990, spending the first decade of his tenure in the firm’s Finance Department, where he held the positions of Billing Clerk, Senior Billing Clerk, Staff Accountant, and Senior Accounting Representative. He joined the Private Client Group in 2001 where he held positions of Control Specialist and Trust Distributions Specialist before becoming one of the firm’s Portfolio Traders in 2009.
Business Operations Specialist
Sean C. Turner
Sean Turner is a Business Operations Specialist at RWA Family Office. In his role, Sean is responsible for providing operational support related to the firm’s investment and business functions. He is particularly involved in the cash flow reconciliation and critical securities processing functions related to corporate actions, private investment tracking, and cost basis maintenance.
Prior to joining RWA, Sean worked as a Derivatives Analyst and provided reconciliation support for OTC trades.
Sean also served as an officer in the United States Army for 6 years. He earned his BA in Economics and Business from Virginia Military Institute and currently lives in Malden, MA.
Corporate Development
Don MacKenzie
Brian Hazan
Nikhil Kyathappala
Chief Financial Officer
Don MacKenzie
Don MacKenzie is the chief financial officer of RWA Wealth Partners. He joined the firm in August 2024 and is partnering with the CEO and the leadership team to grow the business organically and through acquisitions.
Don has demonstrated expertise in professionalizing operations, building teams and supporting growth-oriented leadership. His experience spans various industries, including manufacturing, distribution, financial services and business services companies. Don has a proven track record of optimizing financial infrastructure, improving operations, building, mentoring and leading strong teams in fast-paced, demanding environments.
Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Don held various executive positions in private-equity-backed companies in business services, technology, healthcare and professional services. He spent several years managing two international venture capital firms. Prior to his first operating company role, Don held management positions with Big Four CPA firms in the UK and US. Throughout his 35-year career, Don has been responsible for finance and many other functions, including HR, marketing, sales, IT and operations.
Don earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and is a UK chartered accountant with over 30 years of membership in the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Managing Director, Corporate Development
Brian Hazan
Brian is the managing director of RWA Wealth Partners’ corporate development unit. In this role, he is responsible for identifying and executing merger and acquisition opportunities on behalf of the firm and working closely with candidates to ensure their goals are achieved once they merge with RWA Wealth Partners. Prior to joining the company in 2021, Brian led the M&A and business development group at Emigrant Partners, a strategic investment platform focused on the independent wealth space. Brian also spent time with Bregal Sagemount, a leading growth equity fund, and Focus Financial Partners. He received his B.S. in finance from St. John’s University. His interests include basketball, chess, meditation and spending time with friends and family.
Manager, Corporate Development
Nikhil Kyathappala
Nikhil is responsible for conducting financial modeling and analysis around M&A deal structures and participating in all aspects of the M&A process, including sourcing, relationship management, due diligence, negotiations and pre-integration. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners Investments in 2019, Nikhil worked in wealth management at Northwestern Mutual. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 2016 with a B.S. in actuarial mathematics. Nikhil likes being outdoors, playing sports, traveling and cooking. Having grown up in Massachusetts, he now resides in Watertown, MA.
Tax Services
Bob Johnson
Julia Baratta
Michael Heng
Christopher Hernandez
Justin Lin
Judy Ludwig
Nick Milliman
Nicolette Shaw
Head of Tax Services
Bob Johnson
Bob has 15 years of experience in the tax and accounting services field. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Bob served as a tax director for Marcum LLP, a national CPA firm, providing tax compliance and planning for a wide range of clients, with a particular focus on the real estate industry.
He finds his work especially rewarding when he can help make clients’ tax preparation as painless as possible, given that it’s not always an experience people look forward to.
Bob is a CPA and a member of the MassCPAs and AICPA. He received a master’s in taxation (MST) from Bentley University and a B.A. in accounting from Assumption College.
Senior Tax Associate
Julia Baratta
Julia serves as a senior tax associate with RWA Wealth Partners. In her role, Julia is responsible for the preparation and filing of state and federal tax returns for high-net-worth individuals, partnerships and trusts. She also offers strategic tax planning and guidance, frequently collaborating with the wealth management team to address clients’ complex tax matters.
Prior to joining the firm in 2022, Julia spent nine years at O’Donnell & Tessitore, LLP, and served as a senior tax associate preparing and filing state and federal tax returns for individuals, partnerships, S corporations and real estate trusts. She previously held positions with Ernst & Young and Grant Thornton LLP.
Julia earned her Master of Science in Taxation (MST) from Bentley University’s McCallum Graduate School of Business and her B.S. in business administration with a concentration in accounting from Northeastern University. She is a certified public accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). She also received a certificate in financial planning from Bentley University and is currently enrolled in Boston University’s Financial Planning program.
Julia enjoys volunteer work, serves the Westford Remembers charity, and is a treasurer for the Westford Girl Scout Troop. She resides in Littleton, MA, with her family.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Senior Tax Associate
Michael Heng
Mike started his career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2023. He handles tax compliance and planning for high-net-worth individuals.
Mike has worked in public accounting since 2017, with a focus on compliance and tax planning for high-net-worth individuals and trusts. He also has experience with investment partnerships.
He graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a B.S. in business administration. Mike earned an M.S. degree in accounting with a tax concentration from Bryant University. He also holds the certified public accountant (CPA) license.
In his free time, Mike enjoys gathering with friends and family, working out, traveling, playing billiards and dining at new restaurants. He grew up in Rhode Island and lives in Malden, MA, with his pomsky, Zuko.
Tax Associate
Christopher Hernandez
As a tax associate for RWA Wealth Partners, Chris Hernandez is responsible for the preparation and timely filing of highly complex federal and state individual and fiduciary income tax returns, charitable returns and tax estimates. Chris’ experience in law and wealth management prove especially valuable for our wealth services team, as Chris helps with the analysis needed to draft tax reports, prepare gift tax returns, perform gift tax planning projections, and undertake complex calculations of various tax scenarios when assisting clients and their fiduciaries with strategic tax planning.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2024, Chris was an associate at The Colony Group, a wealth advisory and business management firm. In this role, Chris was responsible for high-net-worth clients’ tax planning, preparation and tax controversy work, as well as client investments, retirement planning and financial advising. He also held several legal positions during and after attending law school.
Chris graduated cum laude from New England Law Boston, where he earned his J.D. and certificates in tax law and compliance as well as risk management. Chris holds a B.A. from Montclair State University. He is admitted to the Massachusetts bar and the United States Tax Court.
In his free time, Chris is a national-level weightlifter who also coaches a large team of weightlifters. He enjoys skiing, fly fishing and traveling to regions with arctic climates.
Tax Associate
Justin Lin
Justin got his start at RWA Wealth Partners as a tax associate in 2024. Prior to joining the firm, he spent two years working for a tax and family office firm. He holds a B.S. in business administration with a focus on finance and accounting from Northeastern University.
He enjoys helping people build and refine their tax strategy and plan for retirement, and he loves exploring the range of options to help them reach their goals.
When he’s not at work, Justin is rooting on the Boston Celtics, playing chess or spending time with his bich-poo, Roxy.
Vice President of Planning and Taxation
Judy Ludwig
Judith (“Judy”) Ludwig serves as vice president of planning and taxation. In her role, Judy works closely with high-net-worth individuals, multigenerational families and trusts. With decades of experience, she brings a deep understanding of the intricate financial planning needs unique to these clients, and she partners with our investment team to manage wealth holistically. She has contributed articles to The Boston Globe and has been quoted in The Wall Street Journal.
Judy began her career as a systems analyst with Fortune 500 and 100 companies before joining Laventhol & Horwath, where she was the manager of personal financial planning. In 1987, Judy and her husband, Joseph, founded Tandem Financial Services, Inc. She served as vice president and was responsible for the Personal Financial Planning and Tax Services side of the business. In 2003, they sold the firm to Braver PC, a public accounting firm, and the name was changed to Braver Wealth Management, LLC (BWM). In 2017, BWM was sold to Adviser Investments, LLC (now RWA Wealth Partners, LLC).
Judy earned a B.A. in mathematics from Douglass College, Rutgers University, and a certificate in accounting from Bentley College. Judy is a certified public accountant and holds a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation, Personal Financial Specialist credential, and Accredited Estate Planner designation. She is a multi-year winner of the Boston magazine Five Star Wealth Manager award.*
Judy has been president of the Norfolk/Plymouth Estate and Business Planning Council and served on the board of directors of the National Association of Estate Planners.
Judy enjoys traveling, reading, baking, and spending time with her family, including her five grandchildren. She resides in Sharon, MA, with her husband.
*The Boston Five Star Wealth Manager award is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC. A fee was not paid to be placed on this list. Judy Ludwig was recognized as a Boston Five Star Wealth Manager each year from 2012 to 2013 and 2016 to 2022. The award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients nor is it indicative of the wealth advisor’s future performance of investment success. For more information on this award, please refer to the disclosures on our Awards and Professional Designations page. Important Disclosure Information – RWA Wealth Partners
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Senior Tax Associate
Nick Milliman
Nick began his career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2023. He focuses on tax planning and compliance for our valued wealth advisory clients.
A public accountant since 2017, Nick closely follows every change in the tax code to help clients, keeping them on track to achieve their financial goals.
He graduated from Northeastern University with a B.S. in accounting.
In his free time, Nick likes playing and watching football, basketball and baseball, and he’s a devoted long-distance runner. He also enjoys reading quarterly reports and proxy statements from public companies. Nick grew up in Norwalk, CT, and lives in Brookline, MA.
Tax & Family Office Manager
Nicolette Shaw
Nicolette joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2017. She manages tax & family office clients’ day-to-day needs and requests to provide efficient processing of transactions, transfers, onboarding and more. She is responsible for the coordination and resolution of a variety of service and reporting requests between the client, the wealth management team, and custodians. Nicolette graduated from Framingham State University with a B.A. in sociology and lives in Boston. In her free time, she loves to travel, golf and volunteer with Boston Cares.
Client Services
Megan Higgins
Matthew Dakoyannis
Rachel Franti
Diana Henao
Kia Jeffery
Isaiah Keegan
Elaine Keratzides
JJ Leahy
Felix Lorie
Maryse Magbagbeola
Dolores Ortiz Barajas
Komal Patel
Karrie Pettiglio
Lesley Valenzuela
Director of Private Wealth Client Service
Megan Higgins
Megan started her career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2007. As the director of client service, she is responsible for managing the client service team and ensuring quality control and continuity of policies and procedures to deliver top-notch service to clients. Megan also has the Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM (CRPC®) designation. She lives in Norfolk, MA, with her husband and her Australian shepherd, Basil. Megan likes outdoor activities such as running or kayaking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
The fact that an employee holds a particular designation or credential does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. For more information on credentials please refer to the Professional Credentials page on this website.
Private Wealth Client Officer
Matthew Dakoyannis
Matt Dakoyannis joined RWA Wealth Partners as a client service associate in 2022 after serving as an intern in 2021. He graduated magna cum laude from Stonehill College in 2022 with a B.S. in business administration and finance. At RWA Wealth Partners, Matt is responsible for assisting portfolio executives in onboarding new clients as well as maintaining relationships with current clients. Matt enjoys reading, exercising, spending time with friends and family, and cooking. He grew up in Stoneham, MA, where he continues to reside today.
Adminstrative Officer
Rachel Franti
Rachel is a part of the RWA Wealth Partners’ Client Service team. She previously worked three years as a mortgage underwriter, and another four years within the financial services industry prior to that. In her current position at RWA Wealth Partners, Rachel supports wealth advisors and custodians in the onboarding process of new clients, along with processing service requests for existing clients.
Rachel earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Central Michigan University, and is currently finishing her Master of Science degree in Finance at Walsh College.
She grew up in Madison Heights, and currently resides in Clawson. In her free time, Rachel enjoys crocheting, walking her two dogs, and spending time with her loved ones.
Private Wealth Client Officer
Diana Henao
Diana joined RWA in 2025 as a client service associate and is responsible for assisting the advisory team in meeting client needs. She’s spent more than 20 years in the financial services industry and has extensive experience working with individual clients, institutional clients and advisors over that time. She earned her BS in business with a focus in finance from UMass Boston. Originally from Colombia, Diana now lives in Saugus, MA—she has two children and enjoys spending time with family and traveling.
Private Wealth Client Officer
Kia Jeffery
Kia joined RWA Wealth Partners in August 2021 as a Client Service Associate. She is responsible for the coordination and resolution of a variety of service and reporting requests between the client, the relationship management team, and custodians. Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners, Kia was a Client Service Associate on the Relationship Management Team within a Boston-based investment company. Kia graduated from Northeastern University in 2015 with a B.S. in Business Administration and a minor in Psychology. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her young nieces.
Adminstrative Officer
Isaiah Keegan
Isaiah Keegan joined RWA Wealth Partners as a client service associate in 2023. He is responsible for managing data, supporting client relationships and assisting advisors with client inquiries.
He started his career at Brown Brothers Harriman as a client service representative specializing in alternative investments.
Isaiah holds a B.S. in business management from Bentley University, where he also played on the football team.
He is an avid golfer and passionate Boston sports fan. Isaiah resides in Southborough, MA, his hometown.
Private Wealth Sr. Client Officer
Elaine Keratzides
Elaine has obtained diverse industry experience by having worked in various operational and financial positions for Charles Schwab, Hewlett Packard and Levi Strauss. Elaine earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics at San Francisco State University and her MBA degree from the University of San Francisco. In her current position at RWA Wealth Partners, Elaine supports wealth advisors and custodians in the onboarding process of new clients, which includes establishing new accounts and fulfilling client service requests.
Elaine, a native San Franciscan, currently resides in San Rafael. In her free time, Elaine enjoys and supports her son’s basketball team as well as the summer league teams. Elaine enjoys walking, playing tennis and spending quality time with friends and family.
Private Wealth Client Officer
JJ Leahy
JJ started his career at RWA Wealth Partners in 2023, where he works closely with clients to ensure their service needs are met. Prior to that, JJ worked as an enterprise sales and strategic account management professional for over six years. JJ graduated from Stonehill College in 2014, receiving his B.A. in American studies with a focus in communication and cinema studies. Outside of work, he is an aspiring average golfer, film buff and avid sports fan.
Adminstrative Officer
Felix Lorie
Felix joined RWA Wealth Partners in June of 2022 and is responsible for assisting the relationship management team with a variety of services including client inquiries, database management and fund allocation. He is working toward his BS in business management with a concentration in finance from University of Massachusetts Boston. Felix grew up in South Florida but currently resides in East Boston, MA where he plays basketball and attempts to excel at golf while exploring new restaurants.
Private Wealth Client Officer
Maryse Magbagbeola
Maryse originally joined RWA in 2018 and came back to the firm in 2025. As a client service associate, she works closely with clients to coordinate a variety of service and reporting needs between the client, the advisory team and the account custodian. She was an assistant manager at TD Bank prior to joining the firm. Maryse earned a B.A. in business management at Regis College while minoring in economics and international relations. She later acquired her M.S. in management from Emmanuel College. A mom of two little girls, Maryse is passionate about dancing and interesting food. She also speaks fluent French and Swahili.
Adminstrative Officer
Dolores Ortiz Barajas
Dolores joined RWA Wealth Partners as the Operations Associate. She provides a supporting role assisting the Operations Team with daily task.
Raised in both SF and Marin Dolores enjoys all the great activities the bay provides. When not working or spending quality time with family. She’s on the road or traveling abroad looking for what to eat next.
Private Wealth Client Officer
Komal Patel
Komal joined RWA in 2025 as a client service associate. She works closely with the advisory team to make sure client needs are met. She’s been in the wealth management industry for five years, and prior to that, her experience includes working for an international diamond distributor as well as roles in the banking and insurance industries. Komal holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Veer Narmad South Gujarat University and speaks Hindi and Gujarati. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and son.
Deputy Director of Private Wealth Client Service
Karrie Pettiglio
Karrie joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2018. She is responsible for coordinating client service and reporting needs with the relationship management team, operations group and custodian. She graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in economics from Nichols College in 2014.
Director of Private Wealth Administration
Lesley Valenzuela
Lesley is a Director of Private Wealth Administration at RWA Wealth Partners. She has over 6 years of experience in the financial services industry. Lesley works closely with advisers and custodians in the onboarding process of new clients, which involves opening new accounts, monitoring asset transfers and the funding of new accounts. She also assists in fulfilling service requests for existing clients.
Lesley graduated from Miriam College in the Philippines, where she earned her degree in Communications. In her free time, Lesley enjoys cooking, traveling and spending time with her family and friends.
Business Administration / Trust Operations / Data – Leadership
Sharon J. Phelan
Sophia S. Flaxen
Chief of Business Administration
Sharon J. Phelan
Sharon Phelan, CFP®1 serves as the Chief of Business Administration and focuses on innovative services and strategic initiatives that support the RWA team as we strive to deliver an integrated client experience. Sharon possesses considerable organizational abilities and applies these talents to drive key elements of our technology platform, including researching and implementing new technology enhancements in an effort to continually improve the accuracy and efficiency of our operations and client servicing.
Before joining RWA, Sharon worked as a trust client service assistant and then as a financial paraplanner for Ropes & Gray LLP. Sharon previously worked at Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch with some of the industry’s largest financial advising teams, gaining extensive knowledge in investments, portfolio management, and personal, high-touch client servicing.
Sharon earned a BA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, a member of the Financial Planning Association of Massachusetts, and earned her certificate in Financial Planning from Boston University’s Center for Professional Education.
Sharon lives in South Carolina and spends as much free-time as possible in Maine, and is a dedicated volunteer and supporter of Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for foster children in the Greater Boston area.
1 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or CFP® certification is granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (“CFP Board”). Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university and three years of full-time personal financial planning experience. To receive CFP® certification, candidates must complete a CFP Board Registered Program or hold an accepted designation, degree or license; pass the CFP® Certification Examination; and agree to be bound by CFP Board’s Standards of Professional Conduct. In addition, a CFP® professional must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. More information about CFP® certification is available at https://www.cfp.net.
Chief of Data Analytics & Trust Operations
Sophia S. Flaxen
Sophia Flaxen serves as Chief of Data Analytics at RWA Family Office and RWA Wealth Partners, where she is responsible for managing the operational and business needs for the organization. In this capacity she manages key technology vendor relationships, financial reporting, business analysis, finances and budgeting, and overall business operations. Sophia also works with and supervises a team of operations administrators and specialists responsible for establishing new accounts, processing cash and asset transfer requests, reconciling account positions and cash, assessing fees, and administering various other client service requests. Sophia is also a member of the Business Oversight Committee of RWA.
Prior to joining RWA, Sophia spent almost 20 years working at Ropes & Gray LLP in trust administration and technology strategy. She previously led the Trust Services area for the Private Client Group, managing a team of trust administrators and assistants. Sophia headed up the group’s conversion to SEI in 2006 and to a new performance measurement platform in 2013. More recently, she was responsible for vendor management, client reporting and business analysis for the department.
Sophia earned a BA (Hons) from Oxford University and completed law school in England at Middlesex University (Common Professional Examination) and Nottingham Trent University (Legal Practice Course). Sophia has served as a board member and Secretary of SEI’s BSP Client Advisory Group and is an active contributor to the SEI Boston User Group. Sophia resides in Melrose with her husband and three children, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends (here and in the U.K.) and escaping occasionally to a ski house in Vermont.
Business & Family Office Administration
Saori Takahashi
Julia M. Salemme
Sr. Business Administrator
Saori Takahashi
Saori Takahashi serves as the Sr. Business Administrator at RWA Family Office. In this role, she is responsible for providing crucial support to the strategic initiatives of RWA and leadership related to all aspects of business and office operations. Saori also assists her investment, financial planning, operations, compliance, and client services colleagues with various aspects of administrative and client service support.
Prior to joining RWA, Saori was an Accounts Receivable Coordinator at Barkan Management, a real estate construction, development, and property management company. In an earlier role, Saori provided administrative support at Silver Bridge Advisors LLC to the entire team including executives, the client service team, and the investment team.
Saori earned an MS in Actuarial Science, a BS in Mathematics, and an International Business Management Certificate from Boston University. She also teaches at the Japanese Language School of Greater Boston where she has provided Japanese and mathematics instruction since 2007. Saori is a member of Boston Cares and volunteers at local libraries as a tutor in English and mathematics for GED exams. Saori recently traveled to Tanzania as a part of International Volunteer HQ to teach local elementary school students in 2018.
Originally from Japan, Saori resides in Maynard with her boyfriend, and is a proud mother to a daughter in her twenties. She loves to cook and bake, enjoys reading, and spending time with her family and friends.
Sr. Business Administrator
Julia M. Salemme
Julia Salemme is a Sr. Business Administrator at RWA Family Office. Julia provides critical administrative and operational support to our successful individual, family, endowment, and foundation clients. Julia partners with RWA investment, financial planning, and client service professionals, as well as trustees and clients’ external advisors to help ensure all aspects of their wealth management plan needs are implemented and supported.
Julia is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Her prior experiences include employment, internships and community service engagements with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Town of Winchester, MA and charitable organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Relay for Life. These experiences, along with her baccalaureate education and international study in Rome and Amsterdam, have helped to formulate and hone her strong passion and commitment to client service and teamwork. These skills and background serve Julia well in the trusted advisor model employed at RWA.
In her free time, Julia enjoys outdoor activities, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Private Wealth Administration
Lesley Valenzuela
Rachel Franti
Isaiah Keegan
Arlene Lazzarini
Felix Lorie
Dolores Ortiz Barajas
Director of Private Wealth Administration
Lesley Valenzuela
Lesley is a Director of Private Wealth Administration at RWA Wealth Partners. She has over 6 years of experience in the financial services industry. Lesley works closely with advisers and custodians in the onboarding process of new clients, which involves opening new accounts, monitoring asset transfers and the funding of new accounts. She also assists in fulfilling service requests for existing clients.
Lesley graduated from Miriam College in the Philippines, where she earned her degree in Communications. In her free time, Lesley enjoys cooking, traveling and spending time with her family and friends.
Adminstrative Officer
Rachel Franti
Rachel is a part of the RWA Wealth Partners’ Client Service team. She previously worked three years as a mortgage underwriter, and another four years within the financial services industry prior to that. In her current position at RWA Wealth Partners, Rachel supports wealth advisors and custodians in the onboarding process of new clients, along with processing service requests for existing clients.
Rachel earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Central Michigan University, and is currently finishing her Master of Science degree in Finance at Walsh College.
She grew up in Madison Heights, and currently resides in Clawson. In her free time, Rachel enjoys crocheting, walking her two dogs, and spending time with her loved ones.
Adminstrative Officer
Isaiah Keegan
Isaiah Keegan joined RWA Wealth Partners as a client service associate in 2023. He is responsible for managing data, supporting client relationships and assisting advisors with client inquiries.
He started his career at Brown Brothers Harriman as a client service representative specializing in alternative investments.
Isaiah holds a B.S. in business management from Bentley University, where he also played on the football team.
He is an avid golfer and passionate Boston sports fan. Isaiah resides in Southborough, MA, his hometown.
Administrative Officer
Arlene Lazzarini
Adminstrative Officer
Felix Lorie
Felix joined RWA Wealth Partners in June of 2022 and is responsible for assisting the relationship management team with a variety of services including client inquiries, database management and fund allocation. He is working toward his BS in business management with a concentration in finance from University of Massachusetts Boston. Felix grew up in South Florida but currently resides in East Boston, MA where he plays basketball and attempts to excel at golf while exploring new restaurants.
Adminstrative Officer
Dolores Ortiz Barajas
Dolores joined RWA Wealth Partners as the Operations Associate. She provides a supporting role assisting the Operations Team with daily task.
Raised in both SF and Marin Dolores enjoys all the great activities the bay provides. When not working or spending quality time with family. She’s on the road or traveling abroad looking for what to eat next.
Compliance - leadership
Kristin Fazio
Chief Compliance Officer
Kristin Fazio
Kristin Fazio serves as chief compliance officer and principal of RWA Wealth Partners. As a key member of the firm’s leadership team, Kristin provides thoughtful advice around strategic decisions, risk management, business efficiencies, and business development, and she is responsible for leading and overseeing the firm’s compliance program. She works closely with functional leaders with the goal of providing the highest level of fiduciary care and service to our clients.
Prior to her role at RWA Wealth Partners, Kristin was the chief compliance officer of Ropes Wealth Advisors since the firm opened its doors in 2015, where she was responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and monitoring the firm’s compliance program; integrating industry best practices; and leading in-house compliance education efforts across the firm. She was a vital contributor to the firm’s strategic initiatives and a member of the Investment Policy Committee and Business Oversight Committee. Before joining Ropes Wealth Advisors, Kristin served as the chief compliance officer for Silver Bridge Capital Management LLC and the director of risk management for Silver Bridge Advisors LLC (collectively “Silver Bridge”). Prior to joining Silver Bridge, Kristin was a senior consultant at Navigant Consulting, Inc.
Kristin graduated cum laude from the Wallace E. Carroll School of Management at Boston College with a B.S. in economics and business administration.
Kristin resides in Marblehead, MA, with her husband and five children. Outside of work, she serves as coordinator, Uber driver, and cheerleader for her kids as they navigate their adolescent years. During the winter, she cherishes spending weekends in the White Mountains with her family.
Compliance
Irene E. Brennan
Elaine Meager
Vincent Noe
Compliance Director
Irene E. Brennan
Irene Brennan serves as Associate Compliance Director and leverages over 20 years of experience with investment advisers to support all aspects of the firm’s compliance program. Irene works closely with the Chief Compliance Officer to conduct annual compliance risk assessments and plays a key role in managing the firm’s compliance testing regime. Irene is also responsible for staying abreast of current regulations and industry best practices, in order to recommend ongoing enhancements to RWA’s compliance policies and procedures.
Prior to RWA, Irene was the Compliance Manager at Middleton & Company Inc. for 10 years, where she was responsible developing, implementing, and maintaining all day-to-day aspects of Middleton’s compliance program. Prior to Middleton, Irene assisted registered investment advisers and hedge funds with their regulatory requirements and corporate responsibilities as a paralegal at Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP, Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Nicholson Graham LLP, Hill and Barlow, and Edwards & Angell, LLC.
Irene graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a BA degree and completed the Legal Assistant Program at Georgetown University. She is a member of the New England Broker Dealer Investment Adviser Association (“NEBDIAA”). Irene resides in Westwood with her husband and two children, and enjoys gardening, hiking with her dog, and spending time with family and friends locally as well as in Nova Scotia.
Compliance Officer
Elaine Meager
Let's Connect:Let's Connect.
Assistant Compliance Officer
Vincent Noe
Let's Connect:Let's Connect.
technology - Leadership
Carlos Sotero
Chief Technology Officer
Carlos Sotero
Carlos serves as chief technology officer of RWA Wealth Partners. He joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2023 to lead its technology and digital transformation strategy. Previously, Carlos was CIO of Allstate Identity Protection. He spent most of his career at Motorola Solutions, where he held technology leadership and engineering roles in healthcare/wellness, global sales and public safety solutions.
Carlos has over 25 years of experience in technology with a track record of successfully implementing flexible technology architectures to enable business outcomes. He is known for scaling for growth while reducing costs, expanding revenue and building highly effective teams.
Carlos is a veteran of the USMC. He holds an MBA and a B.S. in management information systems and finance from the University of Arizona. He resides in Scottsdale, AZ with his wife and two sons.
technology
Minella Annoh
John Cater
Daniel Colony
Daniel Helm
Cassandra Jones
Trish Le
Kevin Turner
Sr. Business Analyst
Minella Annoh
IT Associate
John Cater
IT Associate
Daniel Colony
IT Architect
Daniel Helm
Salesforce Administrator
Cassandra Jones
IT Services Manager
Trish Le
IT Associate
Kevin Turner
Human Resources - leadership
Rick Winter
Chief People Officer
Rick Winter
As chief people officer of RWA Wealth Partners, Rick Winter is responsible for implementing transformational human resource strategies that support the firm’s present and future goals. In this role, Rick works to ensure the firm’s human resource and workforce operations departments run smoothly, and he is responsible for talent strategy, compensation and incentive programs, payroll, benefit and retirement planning, training and career development, performance management programs, employee relations, and managing all human resources and workforce operations personnel. Additionally, Rick advises senior management on the implications of legal issues related to human resource policies. He takes a leadership role in developing an engaging culture that enables employees to grow and succeed within the organization. Rick brings a demonstrated history of strong leadership, business strategy, team building, employee relations, and training and development skills, collaborating with owner-operator, private equity, and public companies.
Prior to joining RWA Wealth Partners in 2024, Rick held various executive positions leading the human resources function for companies in the e-commerce, food manufacturing, real estate, and retail sectors.
Rick earned a B.S. from Florida International University and his M.B.A. with a leadership focus from Southern New Hampshire University. In 2017, he completed the Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School.
Human Resources
Lindsey Cordiero
Maggie Heaps
Dayne McCoy
Total Rewards Manager
Lindsey Cordiero
Human Resource Manager
Maggie Heaps
Sr. talnet acquisition and HR Specialist
Dayne McCoy
Workplace operations
Kristia DeRoche
Christine Kearney
Renee Sayles
Executive Assistant and Satellite Office Manager
Kristia DeRoche
Office Manager
Christine Kearney
Workplace Operations Coordinator
Renee Sayles
Marketing - leadership
Venkat Patla
Chief Marketing Officer
Venkat Patla
Venkat brings a wealth of branding expertise cultivated in both agency and corporate environments with substantial experience in financial services and wealth management marketing. He joined RWA Wealth Partners in 2023 to elevate the brand and overall client experience.
In his prior role as the senior creative director at Edelman Financial Engines, he led the brand strategy that transformed the company’s image into a bold, modern wealth management brand.
At UBS he led the marketing for private wealth management, the client digital app and numerous other initiatives across all business units.
Venkat holds a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Osmania University and an M.S. in advertising and communications from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Marketing
Sean Farrow
Vik Kailash
Seth Kennedy
Alexa Smith
Eric Utley
Design Director
Sean Farrow
Marketing Analytics & CRM Operations manager
Vik Kailash
Director of Communications & Field Enablement
Seth Kennedy
Senior Designer
Alexa Smith
Field Marketing & Strategy Director
Eric Utley
Finance - leadership
Don MacKenzie
Chief Financial Officer
Don MacKenzie
Don MacKenzie is the chief financial officer of RWA Wealth Partners. He joined the firm in August 2024 and is partnering with the CEO and the leadership team to grow the business organically and through acquisitions.
Don has demonstrated expertise in professionalizing operations, building teams and supporting growth-oriented leadership. His experience spans various industries, including manufacturing, distribution, financial services and business services companies. Don has a proven track record of optimizing financial infrastructure, improving operations, building, mentoring and leading strong teams in fast-paced, demanding environments.
Before joining RWA Wealth Partners, Don held various executive positions in private-equity-backed companies in business services, technology, healthcare and professional services. He spent several years managing two international venture capital firms. Prior to his first operating company role, Don held management positions with Big Four CPA firms in the UK and US. Throughout his 35-year career, Don has been responsible for finance and many other functions, including HR, marketing, sales, IT and operations.
Don earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and is a UK chartered accountant with over 30 years of membership in the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Finance
Dominic Petrick
Christine Basile
Efstratia Giannakkas
Chase McKay
Susy Natalia
Controller
Dominic Petrick
Assistant Director, Finance & Accounting
Christine Basile
Senior Accountant
Efstratia Giannakkas
Financial Planning & Analysis Associate
Chase McKay
Accounts Payable Associate
Susy Natalia
M&A
Brian Hazan
Nikhil Kyathappala
Managing Director, Corporate Development
Brian Hazan
Brian is the managing director of RWA Wealth Partners’ corporate development unit. In this role, he is responsible for identifying and executing merger and acquisition opportunities on behalf of the firm and working closely with candidates to ensure their goals are achieved once they merge with RWA Wealth Partners. Prior to joining the company in 2021, Brian led the M&A and business development group at Emigrant Partners, a strategic investment platform focused on the independent wealth space. Brian also spent time with Bregal Sagemount, a leading growth equity fund, and Focus Financial Partners. He received his B.S. in finance from St. John’s University. His interests include basketball, chess, meditation and spending time with friends and family.
Manager, Corporate Development
Nikhil Kyathappala
Nikhil is responsible for conducting financial modeling and analysis around M&A deal structures and participating in all aspects of the M&A process, including sourcing, relationship management, due diligence, negotiations and pre-integration. Before joining RWA Wealth Partners Investments in 2019, Nikhil worked in wealth management at Northwestern Mutual. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 2016 with a B.S. in actuarial mathematics. Nikhil likes being outdoors, playing sports, traveling and cooking. Having grown up in Massachusetts, he now resides in Watertown, MA.
Data / Operations - leadership
Colin C. Tarpey
Grace Lee
Jack W. Morefield
Linda M. Darsney
Operations Administrator
Colin C. Tarpey
Colin Tarpey serves as an Operations Administrator for RWA Family Office. He is responsible for providing operational support and administration to individuals, families, and institutions as part of our dedicated team delivering wealth management and client services. In this role, Colin processes all types of client account transactions, and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems.
Colin is a proud graduate of Norwich University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets. Colin received his degree in Political Science. Prior to joining RWA, he worked for Fidelity and Bank of America.
Colin resides in Cohasset with his wife. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, going to the beach, and spending time with his family and friends.
Operations Administrator
Grace Lee
Grace Lee serves as an Operations Administrator for RWA Family Office. She is responsible for providing operational and administrative support to individuals, families, and institutions as part of our dedicated team delivering wealth management and client services. In this role, she processes various client account transactions and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems.
Prior to joining RWA, Grace interned with the Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee and served as a Peer Advocate at her university’s Rape Crisis Center. In these positions, Grace was responsible or various administrative tasks such as filing, data-entry, and maintaining databases. Previously, she has volunteered with the Borgen Project advocating for anti-poverty bills and with 7 Elements where she served low-income communities in the Dominican Republic. Through these diverse experiences, Grace has developed her passion for advocacy and client service.
Grace graduated from Brandeis University with a BA in International and Global Studies, and a minor in Legal Studies. She is originally from Nashua, New Hampshire. In her free time, she loves to cook, read, do hip hop dance, and go on long runs.
Investment Operations Specialist
Jack W. Morefield
Jack Morefield serves as an Investment Operations Specialist for RWA Family Office. In this role, Jack processes all types of client account transactions, and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems. He also provides support to the Portfolio Managers by administering investment-related technology. Working with the Portfolio Trading Senior Officer, Jack coordinates and monitors the trading and timely settlement of the transactions of separate account managers and external investment advisers that RWA or its clients have engaged.
Prior to RWA, Jack was a Portfolio Trader with Ropes & Gray since 2001 and provided notable leadership in software solutions and technology.
Jack resides in Newton with his wife and two sons, and is an accomplished painter and musician.
Business Operations Specialist
Linda M. Darsney
Linda Darsney serves as a Business Operations Specialist at RWA Family Office. In her role, she is responsible for providing operational support related to the firm’s investment and business functions. She is particularly responsible for the calculation and assessment of fees for all of RWA clients, as well as critical account maintenance and audits. Linda also supports the monitoring of the omnibus custody account RWA maintains with our key vendor and qualified custodian, SEI Private Trust Company, as well as critical securities processing functions.
Prior to joining RWA, Linda worked as a Trust Client Services Assistant for Ropes & Gray, providing support for the Private Client Group. She also gained extensive experience working in both the public and private sector, where she served in the positions of Securities Accountant, Staff Accountant and Senior Accountant.
Linda earned a BS degree in Accounting from Boston College. She resides in Rowley, Mass with her husband and two children, including one recent college graduate, and her beloved dogs.
Family Office Trust Operations
Colin C. Tarpey
Grace Lee
Jack W. Morefield
Linda M. Darsney
Operations Administrator
Colin C. Tarpey
Colin Tarpey serves as an Operations Administrator for RWA Family Office. He is responsible for providing operational support and administration to individuals, families, and institutions as part of our dedicated team delivering wealth management and client services. In this role, Colin processes all types of client account transactions, and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems.
Colin is a proud graduate of Norwich University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets. Colin received his degree in Political Science. Prior to joining RWA, he worked for Fidelity and Bank of America.
Colin resides in Cohasset with his wife. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, going to the beach, and spending time with his family and friends.
Operations Administrator
Grace Lee
Grace Lee serves as an Operations Administrator for RWA Family Office. She is responsible for providing operational and administrative support to individuals, families, and institutions as part of our dedicated team delivering wealth management and client services. In this role, she processes various client account transactions and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems.
Prior to joining RWA, Grace interned with the Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee and served as a Peer Advocate at her university’s Rape Crisis Center. In these positions, Grace was responsible or various administrative tasks such as filing, data-entry, and maintaining databases. Previously, she has volunteered with the Borgen Project advocating for anti-poverty bills and with 7 Elements where she served low-income communities in the Dominican Republic. Through these diverse experiences, Grace has developed her passion for advocacy and client service.
Grace graduated from Brandeis University with a BA in International and Global Studies, and a minor in Legal Studies. She is originally from Nashua, New Hampshire. In her free time, she loves to cook, read, do hip hop dance, and go on long runs.
Investment Operations Specialist
Jack W. Morefield
Jack Morefield serves as an Investment Operations Specialist for RWA Family Office. In this role, Jack processes all types of client account transactions, and facilitates the onboarding and transition of client relationships by performing reconciliation of portfolios across our custodial, portfolio management, and trading systems. He also provides support to the Portfolio Managers by administering investment-related technology. Working with the Portfolio Trading Senior Officer, Jack coordinates and monitors the trading and timely settlement of the transactions of separate account managers and external investment advisers that RWA or its clients have engaged.
Prior to RWA, Jack was a Portfolio Trader with Ropes & Gray since 2001 and provided notable leadership in software solutions and technology.
Jack resides in Newton with his wife and two sons, and is an accomplished painter and musician.
Business Operations Specialist
Linda M. Darsney
Linda Darsney serves as a Business Operations Specialist at RWA Family Office. In her role, she is responsible for providing operational support related to the firm’s investment and business functions. She is particularly responsible for the calculation and assessment of fees for all of RWA clients, as well as critical account maintenance and audits. Linda also supports the monitoring of the omnibus custody account RWA maintains with our key vendor and qualified custodian, SEI Private Trust Company, as well as critical securities processing functions.
Prior to joining RWA, Linda worked as a Trust Client Services Assistant for Ropes & Gray, providing support for the Private Client Group. She also gained extensive experience working in both the public and private sector, where she served in the positions of Securities Accountant, Staff Accountant and Senior Accountant.
Linda earned a BS degree in Accounting from Boston College. She resides in Rowley, Mass with her husband and two children, including one recent college graduate, and her beloved dogs.
Firmwide Data Analytics - leadership
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