This is the latest in a continuing series of posts where we feature a member of our team using a Q&A format so you can get to know them a little better – both personally and professionally. This week we’ll be interviewing Danielle Berz, who joined Brown and Company in April 2013 as a Client Relationship Manager. She began her career in July 2008 at UBS Financial Services, Inc., participating as a Financial Advisor Associate in a two-year training program that focused on addressing the needs of high and ultra-high net worth individuals. Upon completion of the program, Danielle teamed with an established advisor within UBS Financial Services, Inc. where she headed up the financial plans, asset allocations, investment due diligence and the coordination of the clients, their CPAs, and attorneys. Danielle holds the CFP® designation and is registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. She holds her Series 7 and 66 registrations with LPL Financial. Danielle grew up in Golden, Colorado and lived there until she moved to attend school at the University of Washington, where she rowed on the NCAA Women’s Crew Team. She lived in Seattle for 9 years before moving back to Colorado. She enjoys watching football, snowboarding, eating out and hiking. Q: What is your favorite part about working for Brown and Company? A: It’s both the clients we get to work for as well as the coworkers I get to work with. I’m fortunate to be in a trusted position by people I consider to be the definition of success. Our clients are truly an inspiring group. In the office, there’s a lot of support for growth both in my career as well as in my personal life. We have a great group of employees here who inspire me to work hard every day while still making me laugh on constant basis. Q: What do you find most challenging at Brown and Company? A: We pride ourselves on providing beyond excellent service to our clients so as a result, both the speed of work required in addition to ensuring the work be completed without error is a challenging albeit necessary combination. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Q: What advice would you give to someone just joining the team? A: Brown & Company is a mix between a high functioning office and a family type feel. We certainly know how to have fun and support each other, but we expect hard work, motivation and perfection when it comes to the job. Now, we’ll switch gears to learn more what you like to do outside of the office. Q: What is your favorite book? A: I’d have to go with Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts. Based off an incredibly interesting true story, the book follows a convicted felon who escapes from prison in Australia and flees to Bombay, India where you see a lifestyle completely different than what I’ve ever been exposed to. The book is not only entertaining but wonderfully deep and thought provoking. Q: What is your favorite quote? A: “There are no mistakes, only happy little accidents” – Bob Ross. Even though this is certainly not the motto for Brown and Company, I think it’s important to keep in mind that things happen for a reason and with the right attitude, life does seem to work itself out nicely. Q: What is the first concert you attended? A: The Eagles. This was the first event at the new Mile High stadium. My parents took me and my sister and it opened my eyes to how much I love music. Q: Favorite travel spot? A: I’ve been pretty lucky to get to travel a decent amount recently. I love skiing so it’s hard not to automatically choose a place like Telluride, CO but I’d have to say my trip to Israel a year or two ago was one of the coolest places I’ve been. We traveled all over the country which was much more diverse with its offerings of things to do and see than I had ever imagined.
