I managed money for large institutions, and for a hedge fund before most of the world had ever heard of the term. Early on, I decided that working in a profession I found enjoyable should be high on my list of priorities. And after 40-years in the financial services field, I still love my work. Fifteen years ago, a friend persuaded me to bring that level of expertise to his portfolio. Alpha Advisors was born.

I’ve had a number of jobs in my life. Ultimately, they were all simply a paycheck. Even when I joined Alpha Advisors, I didn’t expect to break that pattern, but I did.

I focused on administration during my first years at Alpha Advisors, not because it gave me goose bumps, but because that was my area of expertise at the time. Then, one day, I realized that, as a woman, I could bring different perspective to a traditionally male dominated career field.

Sarah 2.0 emerged.

I found a joy in my work that I never imagined was possible. Now, I help clients discover and define their joy. It is gratifying to know that my work makes a difference each and every day.

I entered into the world of investments and financial planning for two reasons. First, I love the markets and their juxtaposition of quantifiable data and mystery. Second, I love people and the unfolding story of their lives. I used to think the most exciting part of my career would center on investment performance. I was wrong. Working with clients provides the real fulfillment. Supporting the pursuit of a client’s aspirations and addressing the external and internal obstacles that stand in the way are what makes my work a calling rather than a career.

I’m not a perfectionist but I enjoy doing something well. There’s a beauty in order. There’s a beauty that gives me purpose when I can be a positive influence in someone’s life. It lifts my spirit to approach someone without pre-conceptions or inner-noise and just listen. Those moments of hearing the stories, hopes, dreams and concerns is like having a wonderfully unique tapestry woven before me. Sometimes the beauty is in the complexity and seeming chaos. As we work with clients to understand the “why” of their lives, before we apply the art and science of finance, each experience is an opportunity to do something well.