The Financial Planning Process
Client Objectives
Plan Development and Implementation
A Comprehensive Plan
A properly structured and implemented financial plan can help clients achieve their financial goals, while offering them protection should an unexpected life event occur. The planning process begins with an in-depth investigation into the client’s specific financial objectives. From there, we work with clients and their advisors to develop and implement a comprehensive plan capable of meeting client goals and expectations.
Establish the Focus
We frame the discussion of financial objectives around eight key areas to the financial planning process. Specific objectives related to each of these areas establish the focus for each client’s financial plan.
| Financial Independence | Education |
| Estate Planning | Investment Planning |
| Contingency Planning | Charitable Giving |
| Business Transition | Family Legacy |
Understand. Develop. Execute. Review.
We design the road map that our clients follow to achieve financial success. Regular review meetings and proactive communication, enable us to ensure that our clients remain oriented correctly in the pursuit of their financial goals.
| 1. Establish Risk Tolerance, Returns Expectations and Goals |
| 2. Take Financial Situation Inventory |
| 3. Consult with Existing Advisors |
| 4. Design and Execute an Investment Strategy |
| 5. Implement Advanced Planning Strategies |
| 6. Review and Update |
David Lemire, CFA
Senior Market Strategist
David serves on Strategic’s investment committee with a primary focus on asset allocation strategies. In addition, he works with private clients, institutions and Corporate Retirement Plans in managing their investment portfolios. As a Managing Director, Dave is a member of Strategic’s Executive Committee.
Iris Buczkowski, CLTC
Managing Director
As a Managing Director, Iris works with high-net-worth individuals and businesses. She specializes in financial and insurance planning.
Alan R. Leist, Jr., CEO, CFP
Chief Executive Officer
As the Chief Executive Officer, Alan is responsible for the overall direction of the firm and managing employees in various operational and management capacities. In addition, he services a wide ranging base of clients in helping them achieve their financial objectives.
Judy Sweet, CFA
Principal and Portfolio Manager
As a principal and owner, Judy is a member of the firm’s executive team and is responsible for periodic reviews of the investment platform. Judy specializes in investment management work for private clients and institutions. She is also responsible for managing the firm’s finances.
Laura Hailston
Director – Retirement Plan Services
Laura E. Hailston joined Strategic in 2004. She specializes in plan administration, business development and customer service for the corporate retirement plans division.
Melissa Fernalld
Financial Planning Associate
Melissa Fernalld joined Strategic in 2007. She works directly with Alan R. Leist Jr., CEO to assist with the financial planning needs of clients.
Alan R. Leist, III, CFA
Chief Investment Officer
Alan is responsible for the prudent management of all equity, fixed income and asset allocation strategies across the firm. In addition, he specializes in consumer sector equity research. As a Managing Director, he is a member of the Portfolio Management Team and Strategic’s Executive Committee.
Michael McGraw
Financial Planning Associate
Michael J. McGraw joined Strategic in 2011. He specializes in the servicing of client accounts by preparing quarterly review reports, reconciling accounts on a monthly basis, and processing new account openings. Along with his daily operational tasks, he also works directly with Judy Sweet to assist with the financial planning needs of clients.
Aaron Evans
Analyst
Aaron returned home to Central New York and joined Strategic as a member of the investment team covering the Energy and Materials sectors. Additionally he will be taking on the role of Financial Planning Associate.
“Strategic has built an incredibly talented, high-functioning team capable of providing the uncommon level of service that our clients are accustomed to.”
Andy Thurston
Research Analyst