Each month at Mission Wealth, we interview a new team member and publish the interview in a spotlight article. This month we talked with Client Advisor Associate, Julian Driver and learned about his upbringing, hobbies, and some financial advice. Learn more about Julian in this interview.
About Julian Driver
Julian Driver serves as a Client Advisor Associate for Mission Wealth and joined the team in 2021. Julian has a BA in Communications from SUNY Purchase, as well as an MS in International Business from Hult International Business School. During graduate school Julian interned at a consultancy firm in Boston, MA. He worked for New York Life for 3 years to become an expert on variable universal life insurance and variable annuities, so he could assist clients as they manage the funds in these investment vehicles.
Julian is passionate about being in an industry where he can help others. He finds working at Mission Wealth rewarding, by putting him in a position to help clients improve their financial lives, reach their goals, and pass on their legacy.
What are a few childhood experiences you had that formed who you are today?
One part of my childhood experiences that helped form who I am today was growing up in the greater New York City area. This gave me exposure to many different types of people and cultures from an early age, allowing me to grow an appreciation and respect for our differences. I believe this experience has given me the ability to be open minded and look at the world as a place to be explored and learned from.
How do you spend time outside of Mission Wealth?
I’m a sports enthusiast (especially for any New York team) and enjoy being outdoors, traveling and exploring new restaurants. During my free time, I also regularly volunteer with community-based organizations, giving back to others during times of need.
If you could offer any advice to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to live in the moment and enjoy the process. I’ve heard the expression, “it takes 10 years to be an overnight success.” What I take from this expression is things take time, especially the pursuit of our goals. Instead of only focusing on how much you still have to accomplish to reach that finish line, take a moment to acknowledge all you’ve accomplished along the way. The finish line is just the beginning of the next race!
At Mission Wealth we talk to people all the time about what their goals and aspirations are. So what’s on your bucket list?
Some of my goals are to travel more and to spend more time with friends and family; my ultimate goal would be to combine the two.
You mentioned your involvement in volunteering. Tell us more about it.
One of my most enriching volunteer experiences involved collecting the “ugly produce” that couldn’t be sold from local farms. This produce was then distributed to neighborhoods considered food deserts because they lack easy access to fresh goods. Another organization I volunteer for is Ted X Conferences, where inspirational and educational performances are shared with the community.
What kinds of issues do you help clients with and what kinds of unique services do you provide clients with to help them with these issues?
I specialize in helping clients with analysis of current investments to deliver customized financial planning, estate and risk management, and tax planning solutions. I also enjoy utilizing Mission Wealth’s unique service, Inspired Living, to assist clients achieving not only their financial goals, but their personal goals.
Tell me an actual story about a client that you helped and how you changed their life in a positive way.
I take pride in being able to assist clients through many financial situations – they are all rewarding in their own ways. However one story’s positive impact stands out. A client had several IRA’s across multiple institutions and faced the potential of a 50% IRS penalty if the correct amount wasn’t taken out. Aside from the numbers, I was able to provide personal support throughout their unfamiliar process. After thoroughly analyzing the situation and presenting them with the viable options, it was a great feeling to hear them express relief. Not only were they able to take the correct amount to avoid penalty, but I was able to show them how they could donate some of the money to support an organization they were passionate about.
What are some important things to consider when choosing a financial planner?
When choosing a financial planner it’s important to choose someone you’re comfortable being completely transparent with about your financial life and personal goals; this way they can work with you to develop a comprehensive financial plan. This plan should allow you to cover your living expenses, while paying down debt and saving, with the remainder available to pursue what’s important to you.
MISSION WEALTH IS A REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISER. THIS DOCUMENT IS SOLELY FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES, NO INVESTMENTS ARE RECOMMENDED. ADVISORY SERVICES ARE ONLY OFFERED TO CLIENTS OR PROSPECTIVE CLIENTS WHERE MISSION WEALTH AND ITS REPRESENTATIVES ARE PROPERLY LICENSED OR EXEMPT FROM LICENSURE. NO ADVICE MAY BE RENDERED BY MISSION WEALTH UNLESS A CLIENT SERVICE AGREEMENT IS IN PLACE.
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