Philosophy
Approach
Process
Quality and Diversification
Strategic’s RIA business was founded in 1988 with a singular focus on the development of institutional quality investment strategies that properly consider the risk and return objectives of the client.
In support of our client’s goals, we have developed a set of core beliefs that guide our investment work.
- A focus on quality is essential to protecting assets in the short-run and compounding returns over the long-term
- Differentiated portfolio performance can be generated on two fronts: security selection and asset allocation
- Risk, in all of its forms, is as important as return potential in assessing investment options
- Diversification allows for the proper balance of risk and return
- Process, people and persistence drive investment success
Customized and Independent
The sole determinants of investment strategy must be the risk and return objectives of the client interpreted within the framework of the current market environment. Utilizing a combination of the appropriate equity, fixed income and marketable alternative exposures, Strategic separately manages accounts within a portfolio construct tailored to the specific goals of the client. Research is conducted in-house with an emphasis on teamwork, discipline and process.
Disciplined. Repeatable. Time-tested.
We believe that a disciplined, repeatable process is the foundation of any successful and differentiated investment strategy. Our process combines proprietary security selection analytics with macroeconomic and thematic overlays. Technical analysis is used to inform purchase decisions and as a factor within our sell-discipline. The process is governed under a team construct. High standards for due diligence and accountability apply.
Max Berkovich
Portfolio Manager
Max joined Strategic in 2004. He specializes in the credit markets and financial sector equity analysis. Max is a member of the Portfolio Management Team with the primary responsibility of overseeing the firm’s fixed income strategy.
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.
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.
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.
Robert Hanft
Equity Research Advisor
Bob provides oversight to the research process. As a Managing Director, Bob is also a member of Strategic’s Executive Committee.
Vinayak Rao
Portfolio Manager
Vinayak specializes in single stock analysis within the technology and industrial sectors. In addition, he conducts macro economic research. Vinayak is a member of the Portfolio Management Team with the primary responsibility of overseeing the firm’s equity strategies.
Andy Thurston
Research Analyst
As a member of the investment team, Andy’s main responsibilities include equity research, macroeconomic analysis, and quantitative analysis. He specializes in the healthcare sector.
Kasey Williams
Chief Compliance Officer
Kasey Williams joined Strategic in 2008. As CCO, Kasey is responsible for ensuring SEC compliance across the firm. In addition to his compliance duties, Kasey serves as the investment team liaison to the operations department and retirement plans division.
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.
“We recruit and retain the best people so that our clients have the expertise that comes with a deep bench of diverse professionals.”
-Alan R. Leist, Jr.
Chief Executive Officer