I founded Boerum Hill Financial Advisors after more than three decades leading financial functions in large organizations across industries in both the United States and Australia. My career included time with Big Four global accounting and advisory firms as well as well-known public companies. Those experiences gave me a wide perspective, but what I value most now is taking the time to understand people—their concerns, challenges, and goals. Every client and situation is unique, and by listening closely and building strong relationships, I can help identify opportunities and strategies that truly fit.
Alongside my professional journey, I’ve lived in Melbourne, San Francisco, Boston, and now Brooklyn, which has been home since 2011. I’ve raised three children, run half marathons, and even played guitar in a Sunday school band. These experiences remind me that life is full of transitions, and financial decisions are always connected to the bigger picture of family, work, and community.
I am a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, a Certified Investment Management Analyst℠, a Retirement Management Advisor℠, and a Fellow Chartered Accountant in Australia and New Zealand. These designations reflect my commitment to ongoing education and professional standards, but above all, my work is about helping people connect with their finances in a way that supports their lives.
Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) certification is the standard of excellence in financial planning. CFP® professionals meet rigorous education, training and ethical standards, and are committed to serving their clients’ best interests today to prepare them for a more secure tomorrow.
The Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®) designation is awarded to professionals who meet strict experience, ethical, education, and examination requirements in investment management consulting. Candidates must pass a background check, complete a qualification exam, finish an executive education program at an AACSB-accredited business school, and pass a final certification exam. At least three years of financial services experience is required.
To maintain the credential, certificants must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including ethics training, and adhere to the Institute’s Code of Professional Responsibility and Standards of Practice. The designation is administered by the Investment & Wealth Institute (IWI).
The Retirement Management Advisor (RMA®) designation is awarded to professionals who meet strict experience, ethical, education, and examination requirements focused on retirement planning and income strategies. Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree or a qualifying designation (such as CFP®, CFA®, CIMA®, or CPA), have at least three years of financial services experience, and maintain an acceptable regulatory history. The program includes online coursework, an in-person Capstone, and a comprehensive exam. To keep the credential, designees must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including ethics, and follow the Investment & Wealth Institute’s Code of Professional Responsibility.
— Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Here’s an overview of my work and family life, where I’ve been and where I am.
I grew up in Melbourne Australia - played cricket, Aussie rules football, and loved summers at the surf beaches.
At an early age I had an affinity towards math, finance and economics.
I started my career as an accountant with a large CPA firm -KPMG. I worked in the Melbourne, San Francisco and Boston offices.
I have walked inside the crater of a live volcano…. the ground felt hollow - Rabaul, New Britain Island, Papua New Guinea.
I was the CFO of Australia's largest ice cream company and Yoplait yogurt. That was a big hit with my kids.
I completed an advanced management program at the Wharton business school.
I was a Senior VP at Telstra, the largest telecommunications company in the southern hemisphere.
June 2002 - I immigrated to the U.S. with my family to start a job with Cablevision. A fun perk was flying in the New York Knicks and Rangers’ 737.
I have been divorced and understand the financial significance of this “transaction”, how it can be both be a burden but also an opportunity.
I experienced the beginning of the financial crisis while working at the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX), and what the recession did to people's’ retirement savings.
I have run two half marathons – in Miami and at the Great Wall of China.
I’ve been blessed with three wonderful children who, by their own efforts, went to good schools and now enjoy challenging and rewarding jobs.
After 30 years in corporate finance I started my own financial advisory business in 2017 helping people to connected with their finances, and creating financial confidence and peace of mind.
In 2011, I started playing guitar in a Sunday School band for 3 to 6-year old’s. They are most forgiving.
Not long ago I made a small investment in an off-Broadway show because I believed in the story and the creator (please do not take this as investment advice).
I’ve discovered working directly with clients has turned out to be the pinnacle of my career - patiently gaining their trust and confidence is the ideal working relationship.
I have lived in Brooklyn since 2011 and thrive in this environment. I love the energy, diversity, endless activities, and neighborly atmosphere.
In 2024/5 I was a puppy raiser for a future service dog - Luke. Raised him for his first 18 month ready for formal training and assignment to a person in need of a service dog.
