,CFP®
Eric Papa is a Financial Advisor who helps individuals and families make confident financial decisions through comprehensive planning and personalized advice. He works closely with clients on investment management, retirement planning, tax strategies, estate planning, and long-term wealth planning.
Eric began his career in financial services in 2018 and has held progressively advanced roles supporting advisors and clients through all aspects of the financial planning process. He earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 2023 and is committed to helping clients navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Outside of work, Eric enjoys surfing, golf, hiking, travel, photography, cooking, and spending time at the beach with his fiancée, Jess. A lifelong Southern California resident, he currently lives in Laguna Beach, California.
What do you value most in your client relationships?
I value building relationships founded on trust, clear communication, and simplicity. I find great satisfaction in helping clients navigate complex financial decisions and knowing they feel confident that I have things under control, freeing them to focus on enjoying life and pursuing what is most important to them.
How do you feel you help to create impact for clients?
I want clients to understand their options. I feel it is my duty to illuminate the different paths they can take, understand the tradeoffs, and guide them towards the path that best aligns with their goals.
What do you feel is a strength that you have?
I pride myself on being very thoughtful. Every client’s situation is different, and I want to make sure that they are heard.
What do you enjoy most about working at Modera?
The people. Everyone knows how to work hard and have fun, too. It’s the kind of culture that makes Modera feel like a great long-term fit for me.
When you retire you’re going to…?
Continue to surf, travel around the world, and enjoy different cuisines.
Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?
Born and raised in Laguna Beach. I lived in Newport Beach after college, then moved back to town in 2024.
What has been a particularly rewarding moment in your career?
Earning my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 2023 was a major milestone. I also consider working at a fee-only firm in Newport Beach a personal accomplishment, since that was the dream when I first entered the industry.
What’s a destination in the world that you aspire to visit?
I want to snowboard in Hokkaido, Japan. Visiting an island in the South Pacific, like Fiji or Tahiti, is also on my bucket list.
How do you caffeinate?
I don’t drink caffeine regularly, but when I need an extra boost, I’ll opt for some green tea.
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®
University of California, Santa Barbara, B.A., Economics
