Our Team
"Customer service should not be a department, customer service is everyone's job."
-Kenneth H. Blanchard
Owner/Investment Advisor Representative
Dale Walker
Dale is originally from Worcester, MA , and is a graduate of San Diego State University. Dale was the Founder & CEO of a global chemical company which he sold, and in 2014 he entered the financial services and insurance industry. Dale holds FINRA Series 6 and Series 65 licenses. He also holds California life/health and property/casualty insurance licenses. Dale enjoys everything America’s Finest City has to offer, and regularly surfs and swims off the Solana beach and La Jolla coasts.
Chief Operating Officer
Amy O'Connor
Senior Account Manager
April Lewis-Gies
With 15 years of experience in the commercial insurance industry, Amy has a background in business operations and team management. As COO Amy develops strategies to improve the company's functionality and productivity. She sets the expectations for departments across the company ensuring that all departments work together to create a successful, organized, and efficient business. In her leisure time Amy enjoys walking her dogs, hiking, and spending time with her family and friends.
April Lewis-Gies is a Senior Account Manager, bringing over 20 years of experience in customer service, business management, and leadership. She is known for her ability to build strong client relationships, manage complex accounts, and deliver a consistently high level of service. April believes that exceptional service is essential to long-term business success. April's leisure time is spent hiking, camping, and exploring with her family and dogs.
Client Success Manager
Brian Mentzer
Director of Strategic Business Development
Nicole Rockett
Brian Mentzer is a seasoned financial services professional with over 10 years of experience across banking, wealth management, insurance, and HCM solutions. A graduate of Robert Morris University, he is known for his well-rounded client-first approach, and deep industry knowledge. Brian's belief is that great account management starts with listening, and his industry experience has taught him how to turn client challenges into streamlined, scalable solutions. Brian's goal is to become a strategic partner in our clients' long-term success. In his spare time Brian enjoys spending time with his girlfriend Emily, hitting the golf course, and cheering on his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers—a true black-and-gold loyalist.
Investment Portfolio Design
Chad Danowsky
Chad has over 30 years of experience in financial services. After earning a degree in Finance and Business Economics from USC, he began his career as an independent Financial Advisor. He then spent 20 years wholesaling investment products for top firms, including Jackson, Prudential, ING, and HSBC. For the past five years, he has been with Adaptive Investments, focusing on expanding the firm's fiduciary business, managing the Adaptive 3(38) lineups, and overseeing AutoEducate, an employee-centric education platform. Additionally, he supports IARs at ThePARTNERS WM in growing their 401(k) business.
Nicole Rockett is a seasoned financial services professional with more than 25 years of experience in client service, relationship management, and operational strategy within the wealth management industry. In her role as Director of Business Strategy, Nicole focuses on strengthening client relationships, supporting business growth initiatives, and enhancing the overall client and plan participant experience. Outside of work, Nicole enjoys yoga, golfing, hiking, cooking, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.
Senior Account Manager
Dominique Ruff
Dominique is a Senior Account Manager with over 12 years of customer service experience and 7 years of hands-on knowledge in 401(k) retirement plans. She’s known for her strong communication skills, client-first mindset, and ability to find solutions that truly make a difference. She enjoys helping people and takes pride in making sure every client feels heard, supported, and taken care of.
Dominique believes that communication is key in both business and everyday life, and she brings that mindset into every interaction. She thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys the challenge of problem-solving and staying one step ahead for her clients.
Outside of work, Dominique loves spending time with her partner and kids, as well as her big, loud, and loving Italian and German family. She’s very family-oriented and enjoys getting together with friends and loved ones. In her free time, you can usually find her cooking or staying active at the gym.
Lead Compliance and Education Coordinator
Jodi Nowlin
Jodi is our Lead Compliance and Education Coordinator, bringing more than 15 years of experience in mortgage operations and over a decade of experience supporting educational operations through office and executive administration. With a strong background in compliance support, organizational leadership, client service, and operational efficiency, she is known for a detail-oriented and collaborative approach to supporting both teams and clients. Passionate about creating streamlined workflows and fostering positive working relationships, she is excited to bring this experience and dedication to the team. Outside of work, Jodi enjoys spending quality time with family and friends and enjoys hiking, walking her dog, reading, and taking advantage of opportunities to be outdoors.
