Melanie Murphy, CPA

While I attended graduate school for my master’s degree in taxation, I had the opportunity to take several financial planning courses as electives. At the time, I had no intentions of pursuing a career in financial planning. However, when I took the courses, I was intrigued about the information I was learning. It was interesting to hear stories from my professors and how the planning and investment management aspect was so impactful to their clients. A couple of my professors, who were wealth managers, also had backgrounds in taxation and demonstrated the benefits that their backgrounds provided. While I continued my CPA path, the wealth management field remained in the back of my mind. Ultimately, I decided to make the jump over to this field, and I am very happy with my decision.

Cerity Partners provides a boutique style service, while having access to a broad range of resources, across the country. The people are intelligent, kind, and dedicated to their work and their clients, which is what drew me to the firm. We often have opportunities to jump on calls with other offices and learn something and compare opinions. Employees are highly valued and recognized and each person adds value to the firm and our clients. In my San Francisco office, I have an exceptional group of role models to look up to. With our team approach to client relationships, we can provide a higher level of service to clients than one advisor would on their own.

When I am not working I enjoy spending time outside with friends hiking, running, walking, and playing tennis. Being outside and active during nonwork hours energizes me for my workweek and helps keep me focused on helping my clients.

Meeting with clients virtually or in the office, catching up with them personally, and being able to help them through their financial planning questions. It’s rewarding to help clients find solutions and plan for the future.