Mark GernerdM.B.A., J.D., CFP®

What sparked your interest in financial planning? What fuels you every day in your work?

Right out of law school I began working for a broker dealer where the primary focus was on investments. It’s in my nature to want to learn as much as possible about people and through the relationships I was developing with my clients I started to see that investments are only a sliver of what would help them achieve their goals. I started to educate myself more on the world of fee-only financial planning, where you must always act in the best interests of your clients and look at their full financial picture. I quickly realized that fee-only financial planning was a much better fit for me. Everyday I’m fueled by learning and gaining a deeper understanding of my clients hopes and dreams and helping them through the process of achieving their goals.

What do you value most in your client relationships?

I appreciate getting to really know people. As advisors, we have to go beyond a surface level relationship to truly comprehend a client’s wishes for their future. When we look beyond the numbers and learn more about the people involved and their motivations, that’s when my work feels the most impactful and gratifying. That level of trust, to share your goals, aspirations, and the big and small life moments with someone, is not easy and I make sure to never take it for granted.

Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?

I grew up in Gwynedd Valley, PA. I now live about 10 minutes away in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania. My wife and I would love to move back to the town we both grew up in very soon.

When you retire you’re going to…?

When I retire, I will be golfing somewhere warm all year round and spending as much time as possible with my family and friends.