Financial Services VP Advises Sacramento Citizens, 'Educate To Elevate'
Barry Brundage is the senior vice president and managing director of The Private Client Reserve of U.S. Bank on the Capitol Mall in Sacramento. The bank assists high net worth clientele, as well as foundations, endowments and professional service firms. "The primary focus of the bank however," Brundage states, "is with families and individuals."
What is your educational background?
"I attended the University of La Verne in Southern California and obtained a B.S. in Business Administration with a minor in Organizational Management, as well as an M.B.A. My 27-year career in the financial services industry, like most careers, began in an entry-level management training program learning all aspects of banking. It transitioned ultimately to the financial advisory and wealth management area, where I have happily spent the bulk of my career."
How has your education contributed to your success?
"I am a firm believer that you most often must "educate to elevate." Don't get me wrong, there are many very successful people who are owners that manage their own businesses, etc. who have by their own sheer hard work, started and grown a successful enterprise. In fact, we work with many of them, and I have found them to be exceptional in their desire to put time, energy, immense effort, and their own capital at risk to succeed. For most of us, however, stability and a willingness to grow within an organization that provides meaningful goods and services to society is the desired fit. Neither one is better, just different. Both are needed in order for the economic engine to keep growing and running smoothly."
Could you have reached your present position without your educational endeavors?
"Absolutely not! Education opens doors. It is well documented that with advanced degrees, your employability and potential income are dramatically increased. Many workers today pursue additional education due to the ever-changing and increasing skill set needed to work in today's globally competitive job market. Those who want to 'get ahead' have committed themselves to be constantly improving their ability to compete in the workplace today. That takes a commitment to lifelong learning."
What inspired you to enter this field?
"I love helping people! My experience has been that sometimes regardless of how educated, talented, and passionate our clients are about what they do, they may not always have their own financial house in order. They have found what and where their passion lies, and are pursuing it with vigor. They utilize professionals to leverage their time and execute in these critical areas."
What are your thoughts on what it takes to be successful in this field?
"A certain level of financial acumen is a must. Outside of that you must love to help people and have a passion to serve. We help clients build businesses, achieve financial dreams, educate children and grandchildren, and leave a family and financial legacy. How could work get any better than that?"
Karen Hansen M.S. Earth Sciences, has been an educator and consultant who is currently an analyst regarding land and other public information records. She lives and works in Sacramento, CA. She has been writing about earth and the environmental sciences for Examiner.com since May of 2010. Find her work in several sections of the publication. You can find her work at SF Solar Energy Examiner, SF Environmental News Examiner and Environmental News Examiner
