The people behind the plan.
We believe in honest, clear, and meaningful disclosure - and we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethics and integrity. Work directly with our advisors, at a practice built to know you by name.
Derek Smith, AIF®
Derek is a 30+ year veteran in wealth management, specializing in strategies designed for both the individual and business owner client.
With his individual clients, Derek is dedicated to assisting them with wealth accumulation strategies that include insurance and retirement planning. When working with business owners, Derek understands that employee benefits play a big role in retaining top talent. He can assist with an employee benefit plan that includes retirement plans, as well as group health, disability, and life insurance. He also leans on his years of experience to assist business owners who are ready to retire and exit their business.
Showing his commitment to his clients, Derek attained his Accredited Investment Fiduciary certification (AIF®), which demonstrates that he has met educational, competence, conduct, and ethical standards.*
A Brevard, NC native, Derek earned his bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1991 and was recruited into financial services by Principal Financial Group in 1992.
*AIF® (Accredited Investment Fiduciary®) is an educational designation only, obtained by the holder by completing the requisite coursework. The AIF Designation does not mean the holder is acting in a fiduciary capacity.
Austin Smith
With a strong commitment to a client-first approach, Austin focuses on helping individuals and businesses navigate their financial journeys with confidence. Bringing knowledge in retirement planning, group benefits, and business financial strategies, Austin strives to provide clear, actionable steps that align with each client's goals.
Austin earned a degree in Computer Science, with a minor in mathematics, from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, with a background in AI, data analytics, machine learning, and automation. This technical knowledge helps him embrace new technology and resources - and helps clients adapt to the evolving digital economy as part of their overall financial plans.
Outside of work, Austin enjoys golfing, backcountry snowboarding, lifting weights, and training his German Shepherd - pursuits whose discipline and focus carry into his professional approach.
Built to serve you for the long run
As our practice grows, every client still works with an advisor who knows their name and their goals. We're continually investing in our team and resources so the level of personal service stays the same - even as we're able to help more families and businesses.
Put our experience to work.
Schedule a complimentary meeting to discuss your specific questions.