Steven C. Merrell
smerrell@willowridgecapital.com
Founder, Chief Investment Officer & Wealth Advisor
Prior to forming Willow Ridge, Steve spent twelve years with American Express where he served as Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager. During his tenure he was responsible for managing several mutual funds and American Express fixed income investments in the emerging markets. His role required him to meet and plan with government and business leaders around the world, including the President of Hungary, the former Prime Minister of Russia, finance ministers and central bankers in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Venezuela, Kenya, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Korea.
"The 1990s," recalls Steve, "was a time of exciting change for developing countries. The cold war ended and these countries were finally breaking free from decades of mismanagement. I was privileged to be part of it. It was a great training ground."
But that position left him feeling quite removed from the lives of the people his decisions affected. "I wanted to work with individuals and see the positive impact I was having in their lives," he says. "So I left that world to build a business that allows me to help individuals."
Having also worked at JP Morgan in London, Steve has expertise not found among traditional financial advisors. Yet he was determined that Willow Ridge would do more than just grow the dollar figures.
"We help bring order to our clients financial lives," Steve says. "Money is a tool, and a person's wealth should support their deepest desires and most cherished values. We want to enable our clients to pursue their dreams with confidence.
"The highest compliment my clients pay me is to trust me with their financial future. Now, instead of watching the economy of a foreign country, I get to help my clients progress toward their lifelong goals. That brings me immense satisfaction."
Steve was educated at Brigham Young University where he graduated with a Master in Business Administration in 1986 and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1984.
Steve and his wife Jeanne have five children. They enjoy family activities, serving in their church and pursuing adventure while backpacking, cycling, scuba diving, or just having fun together. Steve is based in Monterey California and currently serves as board member and treasurer of the Hospice Foundation, and on the investment committee for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Monterey County. He is active in Boy Scouts and Rotary.