Scott KittrellCFP®, CDFA®, FPQP®
Senior Financial Advisor, Principal
What sparked your interest in financial planning?
I began my career working for a brokerage firm singularly focused on investments. As my career progressed, I was able to spend time in and around a variety of wealth management platforms. Something that stood out to me was that few took a holistic approach and were capable of addressing the most important questions clients face as they build, protect and transfer wealth. It became obvious to me that a holistic approach centered around comprehensive financial planning was the best way to address those questions and provide clients with the knowledge to make sound decisions for themselves and their families.
What fuels you every day in your work?
It’s a combination of things, but mostly the satisfaction from helping others. As an advisor, I never take for granted that financial planning can be quite intimidating. Doing it well requires both mutual respect and trust. When clients entrust me with their hopes and dreams, as well as fears and challenges, I feel a special responsibility to do my part to provide the advice and counsel that will make a positive impact in their lives. Seeing that realized is its own reward.
What is a particularly rewarding example of how you helped to create impact for a client?
While I’ve been blessed to see a number of client successes over the years, I think the most rewarding example involves a multi-generational client. The relationship began back in the 1970s and was led by another advisor. Over time, the relationship was transitioned to me and I began working with the second generation. As a result of planning and investment management, the second generation was well positioned to maintain and pass on the parents’ financial legacy so much so that during a planning meeting the client shared that our efforts “had changed the trajectory of his family’s life.”
Where do you live now?
I have spent my entire life in North Carolina. I grew up in Henderson and now live in Pinehurst. If you are a golfer, you know the important place Pinehurst has in the game of golf. It attracts both visitors and retirees who come to enjoy the fantastic golf, culture and people of the area. It is a special place.