Get to know my dedicated team

"Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships."  
—Michael Jordan

This is not a one-man show. I rely on an enthusiastic team to bring the very best to our clients. Every team member brings a unique set of expertise and skills to our practice. Because of our team, our clients experience timely service, depth of expertise, and caring attention.

V L

Vanessa Lara

Director of Client Relations

Photo of Director of Marketing Elizabeth Gilbert

Elizabeth Gilbert

Director of Marketing

Elizabeth provides support with several marketing initiatives, including event planning and execution, trade association research, community partnership and sponsorship outreach, staff training, and assistance with securing targeted speaking engagements and media relations opportunities. Elizabeth brings to the table her interpersonal and communication skills, along with her passion for writing. She is a graduate of Pepperdine University, where she earned her B.A. in Interpersonal Communication.

Photo of Director of Investment Operations Katelyn Marie Reid Avancena

Katelyn Marie Reid Avancena

Director of Investment Operations

Katelyn supports the firm's investment client on-boarding, account maintenance, money movements, and other investment transactions. Serving as a touchpoint for clients, Katelyn frequently assists with the creation and implementation of the team’s financial plans. Her expertise and proactive approach help clients feel supported and confident in their financial decisions, reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional service. 

Network of Specialists

Through Northwestern Mutual, I have access to a Network of Specialists. We help each other, share ideas and common values, and leverage each other's talents to help you achieve your personal dream of financial security.

Photo of Wealth Management Advisor Chantel Bonneau Stewart

Chantel Bonneau Stewart

CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, RICP®, WMCP®

Wealth Management Advisor

I help my clients make sense of this complicated financial world so that they can achieve their important financial goals now and in the future. I often partner with doctors, tech industry professionals, and women in business to help them develop sound financial strategies. I can also be seen in publications such as Forbes, USA Today, and Reuters Money promoting the power of financial planning.
Photo of President and CEO Andrew Manier

Andrew Manier

CFP®, AEP®, ChFC®, RICP®

President and CEO

Our mission is to help our clients articulate a financial plan and serve as their strategic partner to help them achieve their goals in the most efficient way possible. To better serve our clients, our team is committed to excellence, integrity, growth, and efficiency. We strive to provide the best client experience possible.
Photo of Wealth Management Advisor David Katz

David Katz

CLU®

Wealth Management Advisor

David Katz is a seasoned Wealth Management Advisor who provides comprehensive financial guidance to his clients. He specializes in estate planning, fee-based planning, and investments, often working with business owners. David and his team match their clients' needs with innovative solutions utilizing world-class insurance services and internationally recognized investment products.
Photo of James Kenneth Verzino

James Kenneth Verzino

ChFC®

I help families, individuals, and businesses achieve financial success with a strong, personalized plan. I specialize in helping my clients manage risk and invest appropriately based on their goals. I believe that implementation is everything and I’m here every step of the way to educate my clients and help them take control of their financial future.
Photo of Wealth Management Advisor Michael A Waxberg

Michael A Waxberg

CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®, RICP®

Wealth Management Advisor

Photo of Financial Advisor Paul Baboolal

Paul Baboolal

CLU®, ChFC®

Financial Advisor

Financial planning is a life-long process that assists you and your family in taking control of your financial future. Paul Baboolal helps his clients build and implement their financial security game plan so they can feel safe in a complex world. He often partners with South Bay families, attorneys, and real estate professionals to help them realize their financial goals.
Photo of Financial Advisor Loren Rojas

Loren Rojas

MBA, ChFC®

Financial Advisor

Loren Rojas is a Financial Advisor based in Los Angeles, California, serving clients from coast to coast. He is an expert in tax efficiency, risk management, retirement planning, estate planning, investment strategy, and wealth preservation & distribution. Loren takes an active and strategic role in serving his clients, following a time-tested financial planning process that considers each client’s unique goals, desires, and circumstances. With a background influenced by his family's military service and his own 12-year military career in the United States Air Force Reserve, Loren combines discipline and dedication in his practice. Outside of work, Loren enjoys travel, fitness, and family.