Q+A with Cindy Gatlin, CDFA®

Get to know Cindy Gatlin, a senior wealth manager based out of our San Diego offices, as she shares what brought her to Aldrich Wealth, how she differentiates her services, career accomplishments she is proud, and a few local favorites in a recent conversation.

The firm’s capabilities are extraordinary. I’ve worked at international wire houses and national banks and yet I’ve not encountered the variation and unique customization of private offerings that are available at Aldrich Wealth. The talent bench is deep – for even the most esoteric financial need, we have an inhouse specialist. Lastly, the culture is extraordinary. Every person I’ve had the privilege of working with is eager to help both myself and my clients.

At Aldrich Wealth, we create a truly bespoke portfolio to address the distinct needs of each client. How have you seen this approach make a difference for your clients?

My clients are excited when they learn they can create a portfolio that suits their personal preferences, rather than a ‘preset’ portfolio. They feel more invested in their portfolios and the outcomes of those investments. Alternatively, we have clients who choose to have very little input on their portfolios, and we are equally eager to work on orchestrating a portfolio for their needs.

As a middle-aged woman, I am most proud of my duration in financial services industry. Historically, women constitute about 15% of the employees in this field. Interestingly, women tend to outperform men as portfolio managers. Happily for me, at the age of 15 my father introduced me to investing in stocks; 30+ years later, I remain enamored with the markets.

When you really love what you do, work isn’t work. I go home at night and continue to think about how I can help clients. Problems are jigsaw puzzles, and I am determined to solve my client’s needs. Preferably before they are even aware of their own needs.

Working with clients and listening to their stories. It always fascinates me to hear how others have acquired their money. I also enjoy hearing their investing preferences and rationales. However you asked for my favorite aspect, and that would have to be the gyrations of the markets and the feeling of winning.

Outside of work I devote my time to my nine-year-old daughter. At the age of 8 she invested in an ETF that tracks a benchmark. I’m very proud of the fact she chooses to save her money and now she invests in stocks that catch her interest.

This is impossible to answer! I’ve been to 62 countries. But if I was forced to choose a country, I’d have to pick Switzerland or India. Switzerland for the food, scenery and the culture. India was a shock to the senses and made me rethink my goals in life.

1. Restaurant? The Market – it’s so quiet and the food is always impeccable.
2. Coffee shop? Lofty Coffee – I’m not the only fan as evidenced by the long lines.
3. Small business? Solana Frosty – an ice cream store run by a dear friend who creates the tastiest treats.