I started Holland Financial in 1997. Prior to that, I had worked for just two firms: Brown & Brown Insurance and Ernst & Young. Both are fine companies, and they treated me very well, but I had dreams of becoming a financial planner, so I could help people with their retirement planning. With the encouragement of my supportive parents and my very patient wife, Toni, I started my company with a small office and one assistant. While I had the energy and desire to build a company, I had no idea what Holland Financial would become 20 years later. The truth is – my clients told me what services they needed! I just listened and worked hard to provide what they wanted. Holland Financial is now a diversified financial services firm where over five hundred local families receive individualized financial advice. We have five divisions and twenty employees. I’m proud of that! I think our clients are, too.

 

The journey hasn’t always been a smooth or easy one, however. Like any business, Holland Financial has had its challenges. We added a couple of satellite locations right before the Great Recession (it seemed like a good idea at the time). Unfortunately, we were forced to pull in the reins, close the satellite offices and consolidate the team. Though it was a stressful time, it was a valuable learning experience, and ultimately, it made Holland Financial a much stronger company.

 

Now, please indulge me one more moment as I talk about my employees. We are celebrating another important anniversary this month. My “right-hand man” and company President, Kalon Hoard, CFP®, AWMA®, AAMS®, has been with my firm for 17 years this month! How fortunate I’ve been to have this fine gentleman overseeing the investment side of the business! Also, eight members of the Holland Financial team have been with the company in excess of seven years, which, in this day and age, is quite remarkable, don’t you think?

 

Lastly, I would like to express a heartfelt Thank You to the people who have put their trust in me and my firm over these two decades – our clients! It has been an honor to meet each and every one of you, talk with you, listen to your concerns, and help you plan for your financial futures. I look forward to another 20 years of helping you to PlanStronger!