Risk Managers

By Matthew Cole, Sandy Santana and Brian Kurtz of Baird in Cleveland

Robert W. Baird & Co. is in the asset protection business.

“We design, implement and monitor financial life plans for high net worth individuals and their families,” sums up Brian Kurtz, first vice president and branch manager of Baird’s Cleveland office. The international wealth management, capital markets, private equity and asset management firm has offices throughout the United States, Europe and Asia.

To help clients manage risk and achieve their financial goals, Kurtz believes honesty and openness are essential in developing long-term relationships with clients. “We make it a point to develop a full understanding of each client’s financial needs, aspirations and preferences in order to develop appropriate recommendations designed to achieve long-term goals,” says Kurtz.

One of the most common goals Kurtz’ clients are concerned with is having a solid retirement plan.

“Today, people live longer and retire earlier on average,” Kurtz says. “Thirty years ago, many people thought they could save their money in the bank and live off of that and the interest when they retired. That plan won’t necessarily work today. You have to always have a portion of your portfolio in growth-oriented investments. The risk today is really outliving your money.”

Kurtz always recommends clients diversify their assets so they can meet their retirement goals and pass on their wealth to future generations. “We have clients who have worked and spent their lives saving for retirement and they want to make sure they properly and prudently invest,” he says.

In fact, it’s that superior service and prudent investment philosophy that has allowed his team to develop a loyal client following and a substantial referral base.