Skip to main content

Our Team

A History of Building
Successful Relationships

Everything we do is rooted in transparency, communication, and mutual respect. We believe the key to long-term success lies in cultivating collaborative partnerships with advisors and industry experts who share the same values and are committed to changing the lives of our clients for the better. This focus has driven meaningful growth with $7.4B* in assets and offices across the country.

*Data as of 12/31/24

Team Members

Timothy Shaw, CFP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Hauppauge, NY

William Blanton

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

San Diego, CA

Let's Compose Your Financial Story

You deserve a personalized wealth strategy that is focused on achieving the future you want, but flexible enough to manage the changing economic landscape and your changing circumstances. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s meet and start composing your financial story today.

Talk to an Advisor

Bruce Milam

Chief Executive Officer

Bruce is the Chief Executive Officer at Composition Wealth and oversees the firm’s day-to-day operations while driving the formulation and execution of the firm’s growth strategy.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Bruce worked for nearly a decade at Freestone Capital Management, an RIA based in Seattle, where he served as Chief Operating Officer. During his tenure, he led vision and strategy efforts and contributed towards Freestone’s extraordinary growth accomplishments. Prior to that, Bruce spent over eight years as a Director at HBK Capital Management, building out the firm’s operations and technology infrastructure while also leading teams through large-scale transformations to drive scale and optimization.

Bruce received his Masters of Professional Accounting at Texas McCombs School of Business and his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas, Austin. In his time away from work, Bruce enjoys being active – ideally doing something outdoors, international travel, and keeping up with his twin teenage sons.

Fun Facts:

  • Is an avid reader with a goal to consume 25 books a year
  • Has attended 3 of the 4 tennis grand slam tournaments – only Australia remains
  • Loves carbohydrates more than they love him

Matt Dmytryszyn, CFA®

Chief Investment Officer

Matt is the Chief Investment Officer of Composition Wealth and he is responsible for leading the investment team. In this role, he chairs the firm’s investment committee, directs the research agenda, and provides oversight of portfolio management, trading, and implementation. In addition, he is responsible for communicating the firm’s investment perspective to advisors and clients. Matt is also a member of the firm’s Leadership Team.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Matt was the Chief Investment Officer of Telemus Capital, where he directed the firm’s investment effort. Before that, he served as an analyst and portfolio manager at LaSalle Street Capital Management, a boutique domestic equity firm. In this role, Matt served as a research analyst covering large and small-cap U.S. equities. He also served as a Co-Portfolio Manager on the firm’s Small-Mid Cap strategy. Before joining LaSalle Street Capital Management, Matt was a Senior Research Analyst at Russell Investments, where he was responsible for researching large-cap investment strategies. Matt also served as the Chairman of the Direct Investing Research Committee, which oversaw the development of proprietary investment strategies.

Matt holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation and has his Series 65 license. He is active in the community, serving on the board of directors of Bridge Communities, and is a member of the Village of Downers Grove Planning Commission. In his free time, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters and can often be found on a platform tennis court.

  • Holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation.
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Passionate platform tennis player, a good way to get some exercise and get outside during Midwest winters.
  • Although behind in his plan, he aspires to visit every major league ballpark.
  • Tries to stay active in the community and sits on the Board of Directors of Bridge Communities, a non-profit helping homeless families, and is a member of the Village of Downers Grove Planning Commission.

Matt Granski, CFA®

Chief Operating Officer

Matt is a partner at Composition Wealth and currently serves as the firm’s Chief Operating Officer. He is responsible for management, strategic planning, and growth for all areas of Composition Wealth outside of research and portfolio management.

Prior to being named the Chief Operating Officer, Matt was the firm’s President. He graduated with a B.A. in Business Economics, Dean’s List, from the University of California, Los Angeles and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation.

Matt is highly involved in philanthropic causes both locally and globally; he has spent time volunteering for Foundation for Peace, based in the Dominican Republic, as well as Social Entrepreneurs for Education, an LA-based organization.

  • Holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation.

Fun Facts:

  • Has yet to encounter a stock option plan structure that he couldn’t tackle
  • Holds the record for longest day worked at Composition Wealth
  • Once was approached for his home state’s infamous hit, The Jersey Shore

Nate Angelo

Head of Wealth Management

Nate is the Head of Wealth Management at Composition Wealth and will collaborate with the firm’s senior leaders to develop, refine, and execute its market and sales strategies, onboarding processes, financial planning framework, and holistic client experience. He will ensure that Composition Wealth is a place focused on an advisor-client relationship that is transformative in nature, thereby impacting the lives of our clients in a meaningful and positive way.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Nate held senior leadership roles at RBC Wealth Management. He was the Pacific Northwest Complex Director where he served in a Senior Managing Director capacity, growing the Pacific Northwest revenues by over 60% through advisor recruiting, coaching, and expanded advisor support. Prior to that, Nate was Head of Practice Management and Wealth Consulting where he oversaw the growth of RBC’s U.S. advisory, wealth planning, and liquidity capabilities.

Nate received his MBA, Business at SBGE, Seattle Pacific University and his bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University, Neeley School of Business. Outside of work, Nate is actively engaged in his community as President of Citizens for University Place Schools and as a volunteer high school baseball coach.

Fun Facts:

  • Coaching youth sports is a privilege
  • Think like a CEO, act like a servant
  • I’m a Go Giver

Alexander Cyrus, CFP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Alexander Cyrus is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth, where he leverages his extensive experience to create and execute personalized financial strategies tailored to each client’s unique needs. His role involves building strong client relationships and working closely with the team to deliver outstanding service and support.

Before joining Composition Wealth, Alexander served as a Financial Advisor at Johnstone Financial, where he developed his expertise in client management and advisor support. His career began in a different realm when he managed his family’s 2,000-acre farm in Central Oregon while completing his college education. During this time, Alexander and his family embarked on a new venture in hemp cultivation starting in 2016, where he played a key role in establishing two businesses and bringing the new crop to market.

Alexander holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Oregon State University and is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). His dedication to excellence is further highlighted by his Series 65 license. Outside of work, Alexander enjoys hiking, traveling, and skiing in the Pacific Northwest. He is also actively engaged in the Seattle community, contributing to Harvard Community Partners and participating in various fundraising activities.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Was on the Oregon State Cheerleading Team
  • Designed the centerpiece artwork in the Oregon office
  • Experienced in backcountry skiing

Andrew Ark, CFP® CIMA®

Director, Wealth Advisor

As a Wealth Advisor, Andrew leverages his background in financial planning and investments to develop and execute strategies designed to achieve clients’ long-term goals. His objective is to simplify their financial lives by offering a full range of planning services, including but not limited to comprehensive financial planning, tax-advantaged portfolio construction, asset allocation, risk management, charitable planning, and wealth transfer planning techniques.

Andrew brings over a decade of experience in servicing the needs of successful individuals, families, and business owners to his role at Composition Wealth. Previously, Andrew was an Advisor at Wealthspire Advisors and an associate at EisnerAmper Wealth Advisors in their New York City Offices.

Andrew received his bachelor’s degree in economics from New York University, and holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Certified Investment Management Analyst® designations. In his free time, he is either at the beach either with his dog or cleaning up Los Angeles’ coastline.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation
  • Holds the Certified Investment Management Analyst® designation

Fun Facts:

  • Has surfed over 500+ times across the country and around the world
  • Competed internationally and was on the NYU fencing team
  • Within the first two years of living in Los Angeles, he was flown to the South of France to partake in a TV show


Antonia Burchman

Managing Director, Growth Initiatives

Antonia is a Managing Director for Growth Initiatives at Composition Wealth and is responsible for implementing innovative growth strategies including M&A process management, recruitment and retention. Antonia works closely with new advisory teams to ensure seamless transition and integration to Composition Wealth’s platform and culture and facilitates long-term success.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Antonia worked as Executive Recruiter at an international recruiting agency where she worked with a variety of clients, including some of the largest financial service firms in Los Angeles. Before entering financial services, Antonia worked in the marketing division of a global hospitality group based in Los Angeles.

Antonia received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. She is committed to community empowerment through causes such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles, a youth mentorship program and Defy Ventures, a coaching based movement to reduce incarceration statistics.

Fun Facts:

  • Has recruited over 60% of Composition Wealth’s employees
  • Since joining, has helped the firm win over 20 industry recognitions
  • Spends her free time at the farmers market or at a concert

Ben Offit, CFP®

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Ben is a Partner and a Senior Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth. With over 15 years of experience advising high-net-worth families and entrepreneurs, Ben specializes in wealth transfer planning, risk management, investment policy development, tax-advantaged portfolio construction, and asset allocation. He has earned multiple accolades, including being named a Five Star Wealth Manager by Baltimore Magazine from 2017 to present, a Top Wealth Manager Under 40 by Fortune Magazine, a Top Financial Advisor in America by Five Star Wealth Manager, a Top 100 Person in Finance, and a Leader in Finance by Baltimore Magazine. Ben is dedicated to helping successful professionals, entrepreneurs, and families confidently achieve their long-term financial goals.

Ben holds a degree in Entrepreneurship from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland. While in college, he founded Offit Edutainment and developed an interactive, online football game to help students prepare for the SATs. He began his financial planning career in 2009, combining his passion for making a positive impact with his entrepreneurial drive. Ben founded Offit Advisors and merged the firm with Composition Wealth in September 2024.

He is a former Chairman of the Financial Planning Association (FPA), a founding Board member of the Terp Entrepreneur Network, and a graduate of Leadership Baltimore County. Ben is known for his excellent work ethic, high integrity, and keen ability to explain technical financial concepts in simple, understandable terms. His clients value his thoroughness, communication style, and dedication to follow-through.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Ben resides in Fulton, MD, with his wife Amanda, their sons Reed and Nate, and their dog Ray Ray.
  • Enjoys playing sports, exercising, reading, trying new restaurants, and traveling internationally.
  • Supports the Baltimore Ravens.

Benjamin Lake, CFA® CFP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Ben is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and works with clients and their families to develop and implement financial plans designed to achieve their financial goals. He is passionate about helping people navigate their financial lives by finding creative opportunities that incorporate all areas of comprehensive financial planning, such as tax strategies, investment management, estate considerations, and risk management.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Ben worked as a financial advisor at an RIA in New York City. His primary responsibilities were working with clients to develop and implement financial plans, establishing processes to deliver financial planning advice to targeted groups of clients, co-managing the firm’s sustainable investment portfolio, educating clients and prospective clients about various topics related to personal finance, and business development. Previously, Ben was a Co-Portfolio Manager and Investment Strategist at Lake Partners Inc., where he was involved in managing client portfolios, developing asset allocation strategies, and macroeconomic research. Ben also worked as an Analyst at Pacific Epoch, an investment research firm in Shanghai, China.

Ben graduated from Northwestern University with a bachelor’s degree with honors in Asian and Middle Eastern Language and Civilization, with a concentration on China and a minor in Economics. Outside of work, Ben enjoys spending time with his wife and dog, traveling, playing soccer, and trying new cuisines.

  • Holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation
  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation

Fun Fact:

  • Ben lived in China for several years, both as a student in Beijing and an investment research professional in Shanghai. Sadly, he has forgotten some of his Mandarin skills, but he can still order at Chinese restaurants with ease.
  • He has played soccer competitively since he was a child. He still plays soccer with his wife in a recreational co-ed league in Brooklyn.
  • He enjoys hiking through nature with his dog, Mango, and his wife.

Blake McKibbin, JD, ChFC® CLU®

Director, Wealth Strategist

Blake McKibbin is the Wealth and Estate Strategist at Composition Wealth. Blake serves as a resource to Composition Wealth, their clients, and their clients’ attorneys and accountants in developing wealth transfer strategies for high-net-worth families in the areas of estate planning, lifetime giving, charitable giving, and business sale/business succession planning. In this role, Blake partners with financial advisors to meet individual clients and their attorneys and/or accountants, as well as present at educational seminars.

For 17 years before joining Composition Wealth, Blake has served in several roles in the financial services industry. Most recently Blake served as Director of Advanced Planning at Parcion Private Wealth, in Bellevue, WA; served as Wealth Strategist at RBC based out of the Des Moines, IA office; as President of Syverson Strege and Company in Des Moines, IA; as an Estate and Trust Specialist at Merrill Lynch based out of the Houston, TX office; and as the VP of Advanced Markets at Farm Bureau Financial Services in Des Moines, IA.

Blake received his Juris Doctorate from Drake University Law School and his Bachelor of Science from the University of Utah. Blake maintains his license to practice law in three states (however, in his role at Composition Wealth he does not engage in the practice of law), has attained the ChFC and CLU designations.

  • Active Licenses: Series 65
  • Licenses previously maintained (not active): Series 6, 7, 26, and 63
  • Holds the ChFC and CLU designations

Fun Facts:

  • Family consists of wife Betsy, son Louis, daughter Orlynn, a giant Irish Wolfhound named Barnaby, and two cats named Pearl and Lloyd
  • Worked at the Olympic Village during the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics . . . among other odd jobs in his formative years
  • A native of the prairies of Central Iowa; but has always been drawn to the mountains and ocean. His family now resides on Bainbridge Island, WA which serves as a perfect jumping-off point for them to pursue their active outdoors lifestyle.

Bob Driscoll, AIF®

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Bob is a Managing Director at Composition Wealth and works primarily with privately held business owners and non-profit executives to strategically manage their cash flow and build wealth through tax efficient strategies. He serves as an investment fiduciary to our client’s 401(k), 403(b), Profit Sharing, Defined Benefit Plans, and Endowments. Bob is also responsible for developing and delivering engaging content and communication programs to employees.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Bob held roles on John Hancock’s Retirement Plan Services and Fund teams in Boston, Mass. In these roles, Bob supported financial advisors’ efforts to grow and service their 401(k) business and collaborate with fund managers on the tax implications of their buying and selling decisions.

Bob received his bachelor’s degree in Economics from Denison University. He holds the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation. Bob spends his free time being active in the San Francisco Bay Area with his family.

  • Holds the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation

Fun Facts:

  • He’s an avid Notre Dame football fan along with the New England Patriots and Boston Celtics
  • Bob is a mentor to aspiring entrepreneurs through the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center in Richmond, CA

Brandon Beckner, CFP®

Director, Financial Planner

Brandon is the Director of Financial Planning at Composition Wealth. Brandon is tasked with guiding the firm’s planning first philosophy and ensuring our advisory team has the tools needed to provide clients with a best-in-class financial planning experience. He leads internal training and educational sessions to help advisors bring relevant and timely advice to our clients. Creating comprehensive financial plans for high-net-worth clients also falls under his purview. Being an advisor himself, he excels at identifying strategies that are the best fit for each client’s unique needs.

Brandon started his professional career working with Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) and has done so ever since. He has held various wealth strategy-related roles, ranging from associate advisor to senior management. Most recently, he held the position of Financial Advisor and Vice President at EP Wealth Advisors, specializing in serving high-net-worth families.

Brandon received his B.S. in Finance from Virginia Tech’s Pamplin School of Business and holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation. Curious by nature, he has plenty to fill his after-work hours. From scuba diving to backpacking to motorcycling and beyond, Brandon loves spending his free time exploring.

  • Active Licenses: Series 65
  • Holds the CFP designation

Fun Facts:

  • Much to the dismay of his Seattle friends and despite growing up in the D.C. area, he is a diehard 49ers fan
  • His work in financial services began at 14 when he got a job with an Allstate agency
  • He likes to buy and sell rare sneakers

Brian Bunker, CFA®

Director, Portfolio Manager

Brian is a Portfolio Manager at Composition Wealth and is responsible for making fixed income investments for the firm's clients.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Brian was a Senior Credit Research Analyst at Aviva Investors responsible for analyzing investment grade and high yield credits in the healthcare and automotive sectors. Brian started his career at The Federal Reserve Board of Governors and also has fixed income experience at BMO Capital Markets and Neuberger Berman.

Brian graduated with a B.A. from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and received a Master in Finance degree from Princeton University. He later became a CFA charterholder. Outside of work, Brian enjoys traveling, spending time with his wife and son, and watching/playing sports.

  • Holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation.
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts about Brian:

  • He lived in Brussels, Belgium as a child
  • He is a Lifelong Cincinnati Bengals fan - it was hard to admit until they drafted Joe Burrow
  • He visits Colorado every summer to get out of the city and enjoy fly fishing, horseback riding, and archery

Brian Johnson

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Brian is a Senior Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and has worked in wealth management for over 8 years. Brian works with clients to develop and implement customized financial plans and investment strategies. He also spends time with other departments at the firm to build out processes that enable his team to implement strategies to provide top notch client service.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Brian was with a Tennessee-based wealth management firm where he supported areas of advisor growth, reporting, and client service.

Brian received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance from Belmont University, Dean’s List. Brian serves as the Director of Finance for Young Entertainment Professionals, Los Angeles, the local chapter of an organization that focuses on networking and providing opportunities for young professionals in the entertainment industry. He is also actively involved in community causes such as volunteering for inner city elementary programs. In his free time, he enjoys flying wingsuits, as well as playing and making music.

  • Active Licenses: Series 66

Fun Facts:

  • By age 12, graduated from a nationally recognized financial planning course
  • Once recorded a song in the famed RCA Studio B in Nashville, TN
  • Has jumped out of an airplane over 550 times

Brock Moseley

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Brock is the Founder and Managing Partner of Miracle Mile Advisors (now Composition Wealth). Over the last two decades, he has served in a number of capacities within the organization including as the Head of the Investment Committee and Risk Management Committee. His life passion is working with entrepreneurs and high net-worth families to develop customized life plans that incorporate wealth management as well as tax and estate considerations.

Prior to founding the firm, he spent nine years developing strategic investment solutions for high-net-worth families and foundations at Morgan Stanley & Co. and Bel Air Investment Advisors. His primary responsibilities included portfolio construction, evaluation, and management. Before entering the investment advisory business, Brock was a Vice President in the Energy/Technology Group with the Los Angeles-based boutique investment banking firm, Brockett Tamny & Company.

Brock earned his bachelor’s degree from Stanford University and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, with concentrations in Finance and in Entrepreneurship, and Innovation. Brock currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles and is a member of the Bel Air Chapter of YPO (Young Presidents Organization). He is also very active in civic causes and was selected as an inaugural member of the California Community Foundation’s Ambassador Within program, aimed at civic leadership and community-building enterprises in Los Angeles. Brock lives in Bell Canyon with his wife Susan, his daughter Frankie, and his son Lincoln.

  • Investment News See It Be It Role Model, 2020
  • Investment News Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion 2020
  • MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management

Fun Facts:

  • Named the firm “Miracle Mile” after the neighborhood in which he was raised
  • Has been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters for over 40 years
  • His favorite escape is Whitefish, Montana

Connor Wilhelm, CFP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Connor is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and works with clients to build tailored financial plans designed to enhance their financial picture through each phase of life.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Connor worked in multiple roles at UBS. Most recently, he was a Senior Wealth Strategy Associate where he helped develop customized wealth management plans for HNW and UHNW families.

Connor received his Bachelor’s degree from the California Lutheran University. He currently holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation and has his CA Insurance License #19087543. In his free time, he enjoys staying active by playing basketball, going skiing, and traveling.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 66
  • Licenses previously maintained (not active): Series 7

Fun Facts:

  • Always ready for an adrenaline rush, he had been skydiving, bungee jumping, cliff diving and has done backflips in a plane.
  • Avid skier and have skied most of the major mountains in the US
  • Full name is John Charles Connor Wilhelm

Craig Borkovec

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Craig is a Senior Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and has worked in the financial services industry for over a decade. He and his team take a goal-oriented approach when helping Ultra-High Net Worth families build customized financial plans. The scope of their work typically is centered around scenario planning for future wealth transfers, tax mitigation, and asset protection.

Prior to joining the firm, Craig began his career at Fidelity Investments where he structured financial plans and investments for their clients. He spent the next stage of his career on the sell side at DWS Asset Management, where he worked with financial advisors to analyze portfolio allocations (composed of Individual Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, & Alternative products) and implement adjustments based on current market and macro-economic trends.

Craig sits on the board of Refugee JumpStart, a non-profit focused on professionally coaching refugees worldwide to help strengthen their employability and overall well-being. Craig received his bachelor’s degree in Finance from Saint Louis University where an elective course ran by financial advisors titled, ‘Financial Literacy and how to Apply It’ was his hook into the financial services industry.


Fun Facts:

  • Is an avid Chicago sports fan (Cubs > Sox) and misses playing year-round golf since moving back to Chicago from southern California
  • Has a 3-year-old daughter who keeps him and his wife up to date on all the latest Disney movies
  • Volunteers at Operation HOPE, Banking on our Future to help improve financial literacy in low-income, underfunded areas, and school programs

Craig J. Hanson, CFA®

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Craig Hanson is a Partner and Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth. He engages primarily with high-net-worth families in the areas of holistic financial planning, comprehensive investment and portfolio management, estate planning, and wealth transfer considerations. He views his role to be both a complex problem-solver and a trusted steward of his clients’ financial aspirations.

Craig has been active in the financial services industry since 2009. Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Craig was a partner and Financial Advisor at Seattle-based RIA Unionview Wealth Partners.

Craig earned his Bachelor’s in Economics from the University of Washington. As a lifelong Pacific Northwest resident, Craig now lives north of Seattle with his wife and two young boys where he enjoys coaching his son’s youth soccer team. When he is not in the office or spending time with his family you can find him on the ski slopes, the golf course, or out on his bicycle.

  • Holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 66

Fun Facts

  • Comes from a blue-collar background; his mother was the first female journeywoman mechanic in the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 32 Seattle union
  • Has a twin brother
  • Once was part of the opening act for a grammy-nominated recording artist

Daniel Tang, CFP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Daniel is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and works closely with clients to structure investment strategies and financial plans designed to enhance their personal financial goals.

His experience at a large wealth management institution prior to joining Composition Wealth Advisors, coupled with his background on the client service and onboarding team, bolsters his ability to provide a straightforward and strategic experience for clients.

Daniel earned his bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley in Environmental Economics and Policy and holds his Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.

  • Holds his Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • He loves watching the Golden State Warriors, savoring the Bay Area culinary landscape, and dominating the local cycling, tennis, and water polo scenes.
  • He played water polo growing up and was the captain of the Cal men's club team.
  • He (mostly) conquered his fear of heights by going skydiving.

David Bleeck, CPA®

Director, Senior Wealth Advisor

David is a Director at Composition Wealth and provides investment advice to his business management clients through the firm. He has over 15 years of professional experience in the financial services industry advising high net worth clients on a variety of financial planning, investment, and tax-related issues. He is also a CPA and Partner with Goodfriend & Jacobs, a boutique family office, business management, and CPA firm located in Santa Monica.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, David was a senior manager at an international entertainment business management firm servicing clients in the music, film, tv, and new media content industries. He started his career at a Los Angeles-based CPA firm in the audit and assurance department, spending several years completing financial statement audits and reviews of mid-size, privately held businesses in various industries and in the non-profit sector.

David holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from San Diego State University and a Master’s degree in Taxation from California State University Northridge.

  • Is a Certified Public Accountant
  • Is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the California Society of CPAs
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Served in Bolivia as a Micro-Enterprise Development volunteer for the United States Peace Corps
  • Was a foreign exchange student in Argentina during his senior year of high school
  • Is an active member of the SDSU Aztec Mentor Program

Denise Waid

Managing Director, Marketing

Denise is the managing Director of Marketing at Composition Wealth and supports the firm’s growth strategies by providing a full spectrum of marketing services – including brand oversight and lead generation campaign creation and implementation. She provides leadership in managing both the internal team and external resources, inspiring teamwork and efficient execution.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Denise held creative and management positions for several advertising agencies throughout her career, most recently as the EVP/Creative Director and Partner of a mid-sized Austin firm for more than a decade.

Denise focuses her personal life around her family: her husband who is an award-winning Creative Director in the ad biz, and two beautiful children, Teal and Coby. Denise loves working with glass–both sandblasting and lampwork as well as fostering shelter pets and volunteering at the Austin Zoo, a sanctuary for exotic rescues.

Fun Facts:

  • Born and raised in San Antonio, she is an avid Spurs fan
  • Has fostered over 40 kittens and puppies
  • Lifelong dream is learning to blow glass

Gerard V. Tamparong, CFA® CFP®

Managing Director, Senior Wealth Advisor

Gerard is a Managing Director at Composition Wealth and has more than 20 years of experience in institutional investment management. He heads the client service of the firm’s institutional investment group.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Gerard was Senior Vice President and senior portfolio manager in the asset allocation management group at Payden & Rygel, where he made investment decisions for pension plans, foundations, endowments, Native American Indian tribes, non-profit organizations, schools and union portfolios.

Gerard received his bachelor’s degree in Biology from Loyola Marymount University. Gerard holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designations. Additionally, he holds 66 securities licenses. Gerard is a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society of Los Angeles. He is also a member of the board of directors of the Inland Empire United Way and an active member of Rotary International is the Treasurer of the Arcadia Rotary Club.

  • holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designations

Fun Facts:

  • First appeared on CNBC with his college friends and their investment club
  • Won the LA County Net Amateur golf tournament in 2014
  • Wrote code for his first investment job testing for Y2K compliance

Grant Johnstone, JD, CFP® CDFA®

Managing Director, Senior Wealth Advisor

Grant is a Managing Director at Composition Wealth and provides financial planning and investment allocation services to his clients. He has over 25 years of experience as a Financial Advisor specializing in the investment and planning needs of high net worth clients.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Grant was the CEO and founder of Johnstone Financial Advisors. Concurrently, Grant is the CEO and founder of Johnstone Brokerage Services, a FINRA member firm that provides continuity of service for legacy annuity products.

Grant earned his law degree and bachelor’s of business administration degree in Economics from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. He holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA® ) designations.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) designations

Fun Facts:

  • Has 2 pet ducks he has raised with his kids in his backyard
  • Is a farmer-in-training on a historic family farm (est.1893) in Center, Texas
  • Enjoys restoring vintage pinball machines and composing electronic music

Jeff Alpert, JD

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Jeff is a Managing Director and Partner at Composition Wealth and works closely with clients to design and implement customized financial plans and family office solutions based on their unique needs. Jeff leads the reinsurance practice at the firm, which includes supporting hundreds of automotive and RV dealers nationwide.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Jeff was a corporate attorney for a national law firm.

Jeff received his bachelor’s degree from the University of California Los Angeles and law degree from Duke University. He sits on the Board of Directors of Miracle Mile and American Dawn, Inc. in addition to advising the Board of Pray.com. In his free time, Jeff officiates collegiate lacrosse and volunteers on the UCLA Alumni Scholars Board.

Fun Facts:

  • Jeff was a former competitive eater and made his national TV debut on The Wheel of Fortune

Jeffrey Jacobs, CPA®

Managing Director, Senior Wealth Advisor

Jeff is a Managing Partner at Composition Wealth and provides investment advice to his business management clients through the firm. Jeff has over 25 years of professional experience in the financial services industry advising high net worth clients on a variety of financial planning, investment, and tax related issues. He is also a CPA and principal with Goodfriend & Jacobs, a boutique business management CPA firm in Santa Monica.

Prior to founding Goodfriend & Jacobs, Jeff was the principal owner and founder of Jacobs Management Group, Inc. and prior to that the tax manager at International Business Management, Inc., both companies servicing the financial, tax, and investment needs of high net-worth clients in the entertainment industry.

Jeff earned his bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. He is a Certified Public Accountant and member of the California Society of CPA’s.

  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Loves playing and writing music
  • Originally went to college to become an electrical engineer and to design musical instruments
  • Enjoys swimming, reading, and a competitive game of billiards

John Caffrey, CFP®

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

John is a Managing Partner at Composition Wealth and has over 37 years of experience in the financial services industry. He has dedicated his career to furnishing a full range of financial services, products and strategies. Thorough and innovative, John has helped hundreds of professionals, institutions, high net worth individuals and business owners realize financial independence.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth as a Managing Director, John was the owner of Castle Asset Management, LLC, an independent, SEC regulated investment advisory firm. In addition to working directly with some of the firm’s key clients in the advanced planning area, he oversees the New York office for the firm.

John is a graduate, Cum Laude, from the State University of New York Oswego with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting and a Minor in Economics. He holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation. He received his designation through the College of Financial Planning in Denver, Colorado in July of 1988. John is a member of the Financial Planning Association.

John was one of the Founders and sat as the vice-chairman of Empire National Bank. He also works closely with and supports Angela’s House. Angela’s House assists families caring for medically frail children. He currently lives in Hauppauge, NY with his wife Laura, his son’s Ryan and Tyler and daughter Victoria.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation
  • Is a member of the Financial Planning Association

Fun Facts:

  • Loves to be outdoors in the Adirondacks
  • Has competed in triathlons since 1992 and finished 13 Ironman distance races
  • His earliest childhood memory is being in the bleachers on bat day at Yankee Stadium

Kyle L. Breslow, CPA®

Director, Senior Wealth Advisor

Kyle is a Director at Composition Wealth and provides investment advice to his business management clients through the firm. Kyle has over 10 years of professional experience in the financial services industry, advising high net worth clients on a variety of financial planning, investment, and tax-related issues. He is also a CPA and senior manager with Goodfriend & Jacobs, a boutique family office, business management, and CPA firm located in Santa Monica.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Kyle specialized in tax at an entertainment business management firm servicing clients in the music, film, & tv. Kyle started his career at an international CPA firm in the audit and assurance department in San Francisco before moving into the private sector as a financial controller, and then becoming a business manager/advisor after moving to Los Angeles.

Kyle holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from California Polytechnic University of San Luis Obispo and is a CPA.

  • Is a Certified Public Accountant
  • Is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the California Society of CPAs

Fun Facts:

  • Is the son of an immigrant mother from Casablanca, Morocco. Kyle has traveled to Morocco to visit family and learn about his Jewish roots.
  • Has a one-of-35 made, 1957 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Veloce and attends Cars and Coffee Malibu on a weekly basis, as well as enjoys driving PCH with the top down with his wife.
  • Is an avid hiker. Hiked the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim in less than 24 hours and has hiked to the peak of Mount Whitney with his now wife.

Laura Sendldorfer, ChFC® CIC®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Laura is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth, bringing a wealth of expertise and a passion for helping clients achieve financial peace and freedom. Originally from Germany, Laura’s diverse background enriches her approach to wealth management. Since starting her career in financial services in 2017, she has specialized in guiding entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and families through money management, investments, and insurance planning.

Before joining Composition Wealth, Laura began her career as an insurance specialist, laying the foundation for her transition into wealth advisory. Her ability to tailor strategies to her clients' unique needs and long-term goals has made her a trusted partner for those seeking financial success.

In addition to her professional role, Laura serves as the Chairman of the Financial Planning Association of Maryland, demonstrating her leadership within the financial planning community. Her commitment to professionalism, transparency, and client-centered service ensures that each individual or family she works with receives expert guidance and peace of mind as they navigate their financial journey.

• Holds the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) and Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designations

• Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

• Loves to travel and explore new cultures.

• Indulges in culinary experiences.

Lawrence Goodfriend, CPA®

Managing Director, Senior Wealth Advisor

Lawrence is a Managing Director at Composition Wealth and provides investment advice to his business management clients through the firm. Lawrence has over 20 years of professional experience in the financial services industry advising high net worth clients on a variety of financial planning, investment, and tax related issues. He is also a CPA and principal with Goodfriend & Jacobs, a boutique business management CPA firm in Santa Monica.

Prior to founding Goodfriend & Jacobs, Lawrence was a principal at Goodfriend & Associates, CPAs, (which he merged into Goodfriend & Jacobs). Lawrence started his career at a large CPA firm specializing in real estate.

Lawrence earned his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from San Diego State University. He is a Certified Public Accountant and member of the California Society of CPA’s.

  • Holds Certified Public Accountant (CPA®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Splits his time between Los Angeles and Rhode Island, and enjoys the beaches in both places
  • Is a proud husband and father of four
  • Completed undergrad with a Minor in Japanese and subsequently lived in Japan for a year

M. Katherine (Katie) Pieper

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Katie is a Partner and Senior Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth, with almost 40 years of experience in financial services. Katie’s career brought her from the capital markets on Wall Street to the Pacific Northwest in 1989, where after 20 years, she and her business partner broke away from a major brokerage firm to form Unionview Wealth Partners (formerly Unionview Investment Group) in 2009. Katie served as Managing Partner and Financial Advisor at Unionview.

For the last 25 years, as an advisor, Katie’s passion has been working with multi-generation families to realize the goals for their lives and subsequent generations. Incorporating retirement, estate and tax planning along with college savings and charitable giving into financial plans and seeing those plans come to fruition is what she finds truly rewarding.

Katie received her Master’s in Finance from Seattle University in 1994 and her BA in Political Science from the University of Tennessee a long time ago. In her free time, she enjoys skiing, cycling, yoga, traveling with her husband and two daughters, and spending time with her extended bi-coastal family and friends.

Fun Facts:

  • Has lived in 7 states and visited 49…only an Alaskan adventure remains
  • Has 54 first cousins
  • Listens to about 20 podcasts a week

Marla Wooton, CRCP®

Chief Compliance Officer

Marla is the Chief Compliance Officer at Composition Wealth. With over 29 years of experience in Wealth Management, Investment Advisers, Broker Dealer relations, and Client Service, Marla has built a career in operational management and compliance roles. As the Director of Operations and Chief Compliance Officer for the past 4 years and now focused as the Chief Compliance Officer at Composition Wealth, she is dedicated to fostering a robust compliance culture while participating in strategically growing the firm in terms of employees and assets. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record to drive success in the financial industry.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, her journey included pivotal positions at renowned firms such as Deutsche Bank, Alex Brown, Bank of America Securities, Themis Asset Strategies, and Bel Air Investment Advisors.

Marla has been involved with student-athlete organizations, academic tutoring, and fundraising, and consistently volunteers with multiple non-profit organizations to help improve her surrounding communities.

  • Certified Regulatory and Compliance Professional (CRCP)® designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 7,24,and 63

Fun Facts:

  • Outside of running the back office for multiple leading investment firms, Marla can be found on the roller skating rink.
  • She’s proudly put all four of her children through college.
  • Marla climbed 75 flights of stairs last year for her local YMCA’s fundraiser.

Matt Cheney, CFP® CIMA®, CPWA®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Matt is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and helps manage client relationships to ensure top-quality service for his team. Since 2004, he has been working with individuals and families to craft comprehensive financial plans to meet their goals with confidence and peace of mind. Matt is passionate about staying abreast of changes to the laws and developing proactive strategies to help his clients. He believes that his clients deserve to have an advisor work as hard for them as they did to build their wealth.

Matt received his bachelor’s degree in Management from Loyola University Maryland.

Outside of work, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, whether its spending time at their home on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, traveling, or golfing.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA®), and Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®) designations
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Avid golfer
  • Annual tradition with his dad of playing golf in Ireland
  • Proud girl dad!

Max Koep

Director, Growth Initiatives

Max is a Director of Growth Initiatives at Composition Wealth and focuses on organic and inorganic growth. His role is pivotal in streamlining acquisitions, introducing and scaling referral streams, and improving the efficiency of our advisory teams.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Max was a Business Analyst at Freestone Capital Management, a $9B RIA in Seattle, Washington. Max also worked at a boutique investment fund based out of New York called Agena Investment Management leading their quantitative modeling efforts and go-to-market approach.

Max received his Bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech’s Pamplin College of Business. Outside of work, he is an avid skier, tennis player, and spikeballer. He prioritizes getting out and exploring the mountains.

Fun Facts:

  • He has asphalt in his face (avoid street car tracks on bikes)
  • His grandparents were born on 4 different continents
  • He is an avid skier and has logged more than 40 days of the last 4 ski-seasons

Michael Attaway, CFA®

Director, Portfolio Management

Michael is the Director of Portfolio Management at Composition Wealth. He has over 10 years working in investment services and has worked in a variety of industries including banking, accounting, and wealth management. He uses his knowledge and expertise to help drive portfolio construction and investment strategy execution.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Michael served as the Director of Investment Services where he coordinated the development of investment models and managed the trading team at Karp Capital Management.

Michael received a Master of Science degree in financial analysis from the University of San Francisco and is a CFA charter holder.

  • Holds CFA charter

Fun Facts:

  • Enjoys spearfishing in Mexico, and can free dive 20+ meters
  • Loses his voice after almost every San Francisco 49ers game
  • Hosts an annual party called Wing Fest, where wing eaters enjoy dipping wings in a buffalo sauce fountain

Michael Wirth

Director, Finance

Michael is the firm’s Director of Finance and helps prepare the firm’s budget and long-term projections. Prior to his current role, Michael was a Financial Analyst where he worked closely with the Investment Strategy Group and advisors at the firm to provide client portfolio evaluations, asset allocation recommendations, and model development.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Michael worked at an acquisitive insurance brokerage with a national footprint, where he aided in integrating new agencies onto the platform and performed corporate financial planning and analysis duties. He also completed internships in the fields of investment banking, wealth management, and energy consulting.

Michael received his bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University, earning a major in Economics and a minor in Political Science. Outside of work he enjoys electric biking and online gaming with friends.

  • Holds an active Series 65 license

Fun Facts:

  • Enjoys hiking
  • Was a competitive bowler until college
  • Has a hole-in-one in golf

Mitch Caplan

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Mitch is a Managing Partner at Composition Wealth and has over three decades of experience delivering comprehensive financial and investment advice to individuals and families. He was the Founder and President at Caplan Financial Group (CFG) and combined his firm with Composition Wealth Advisors in February 2024. Mitch’s thinking was: “Our clients deserve a top-notch platform for financial planning and investing as well as for future growth. Composition Wealth provides all that and so much more.”

Before registering as an independent advisory firm, Mitch was part of the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network in the mid and late 1990s. Mitch built the foundation of his career as a CPA and lawyer before entering the financial planning field.

Mitch received his Bachelor of Accountancy with distinction from George Washington University in 1985 and then earned his law degree with honors at the University of Maryland School of Law in 1993.

  • Juris Doctor, completed Spring 1993
  • Inactive License: CPA

Fun Facts:

  • Spends a week each fall in Florida playing “fantasy camp” baseball with former pros
  • Has taken an annual trip with his 4 closest high school friends each of the last 45 years
  • Loves surf fishing. Has reeled in many different species over the years

Nick Hunter

Director, Technology

Nick Hunter is the Director of Technology at Composition Wealth, where he leads the firm’s technological advancements and digital infrastructure development. Nick ensures that both internal and client-facing technologies are cutting-edge, secure, and efficient.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Nick worked as an Enterprise Applications Manager at Brighton Jones, an RIA based in Seattle. He and his team were responsible for ensuring that all applications were integrated and aligned with the company’s business objectives. Nick collaborated closely with different departments to understand their needs and therefore customized and streamlined software solutions to improve efficiency and productivity.

Nick received his Bachelor’s degree from Washington State University with a concentration in Finance and Economics and has his Salesforce Admin Certification. Outside of work, he can be found outdoors walking his dogs, spending time with friends and family, or teaching himself his next DIY home renovation project.

  • Holds the Salesforce Admin Certification

Fun Facts:

  • Sold a mason bee business at the age of 15
  • DIY home renovator with a mentality of "if you can dream it, you can build it!"
  • Started skiing when he was 2 years old and has been skiing/snowboarding ever since. He has a goal of hitting the slopes on each continent!

Nicole Pavlovic

Director, Client Service

Nicole is the Director of Strategic Initiatives at Composition Wealth and supports the firm’s Client Service team working to standardize current internal and external processes to ensure exceptional service from all levels of the business.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Nicole worked as a Senior Client Service Associate at Freestone Capital Management, an RIA based in Seattle. There she worked alongside a partner-level Financial Advisor providing all-encompassing support for clients with an emphasis on holistic wealth management.

Nicole received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington, Michael G Foster School of Business with a concentration in Finance and a Certificate of International Studies in Business. Outside work, she can often be found outdoors – hiking or skiing in the mountains, swimming in the ocean, or picnicking in a park.

Fun Facts:

  • Found true happiness traveling solo around New Zealand and living in a van for 3 months
  • Loves a good concert
  • Having grown up with an aerobics instructor as a mom, I am patiently waiting for step aerobics to come back in style

Paul D'Eredita

Director, Strategic Initiatives

Paul is a Director of Strategic Initiatives at Composition Wealth and manages projects that help the firm deliver more impact and value for its clients. He specializes in process optimization, reporting and analytics, and project management. Paul leads integration efforts as we welcome new partners to Composition Wealth with greater frequency.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Paul spent nearly five years in strategic and analytical roles. Most recently, he was a Business Analyst at Faire, an online wholesale platform that helps small business owners buy and sell wholesale products.

Paul received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley. Outside of work, he prioritizes spending quality time with his family. He is a bonafide home cook and brings loved ones together over fresh Italian meals made from scratch.

Fun Facts:

  • Childhood sport was racing motocross
  • Ran a marathon (very slowly) at age 16
  • Cooks a 7-seafood course spread every Christmas Eve

Pete LaPlaca, CFP® ChFC® AEP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Pete has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and offers advanced wealth management and comprehensive financial planning to high-net-worth individuals.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Pete was a Director at SVB Private, a division of First Citizens Bank, and an Investment Counselor at Citi Private Bank. Pete is also an adjunct professor at Berkeley College where he teaches undergraduate finance and CFP classes.

Pete graduated from Hofstra University and has his MBA from Long Island University. In his free time, Pete plays Dek hockey and a head coach for the Town of Oyster Bay Youth Dek Hockey where he coaches 6- to 8-year-olds how to play and excel in the sport.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®), and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Has an unusually high tolerance for hot weather
  • Is a drummer trapped in a guitar player's body
  • Is a college professor

Peter Karp

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Peter is a Managing Partner at Composition Wealth and has over 25 years of experience delivering comprehensive financial and investment advice to affluent individuals and families and successful business owners.

He established Karp Capital Management in 2004 as an independent financial management firm in order to provide clients with an objective alternative to large brokerage houses. Peter believes that financial professionals should work directly for their clients, providing advice without being fettered by the bureaucratic structures found at large financial institutions.

Peter is licensed as an insurance agent and real estate broker. He is also a member of the Financial Planning Association, adhering to its Code of Ethics. Peter enjoys spending time with family, running, skiing, and experiencing the great restaurants of San Francisco.

  • Licensed as an insurance agent

Fun Facts:

  • Peter earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and biochemistry from the University of California at Santa Barbara. He also attended Wharton's School of Business.
  • He is a supporter and contributor to the Marin Foster Care Association and Becoming Independent (BI), a non profit community benefit organization that helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live meaningful and productive lives.
  • When Peter is not working, he enjoys spending time with his family hiking, fishing and traveling. He is also a collector of 60’s muscle cars and enjoys traveling to car shows with his son throughout the United States.

Rusty (Russell) Hoss, CFA®

Director, Equity Research

Rusty is the Director of Equity Research at Composition Wealth and is charged with creating equity portfolios for the firm’s clients.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Rusty founded New Sheridan Advisors, an investment management firm focused on international investments, that was acquired by Champlain Investment Partners (CIP) in 2015. While at CIP, Rusty was a partner and portfolio manager of the firm’s Emerging Market strategies. Rusty began his career at Roth Capital Partners where he started as a research analyst covering U.S. consumer companies and eventually became a partner and Director of Research.

Rusty graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and served five years in the Air Force, primarily as a cost analyst on a multibillion defense communication satellite system. While in the Air Force, Rusty received his Masters of Business Administration from Loyola Marymount University’s College of Business Administration and later became a CFA charterholder. Outside of work, Rusty enjoys riding mountain bikes, spending time with family and friends, and attempting to keep up with his teenage girls.

  • Holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation

Fun Facts:

  • Enjoys international traveling and have been to 23 countries and counting
  • Played basketball and rugby at the United States Air Force Academy
  • To celebrate his 40th birthday, he completed Ironman Boulder

Samantha Kennedy, CFP® CDFA®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Samantha is a Wealth Advisor who is honored to partner with individuals and families as they work to reach their personal financial goals. She has learned that no two individuals are the same and relies on her 10 years of experience to build a unique roadmap that has clear action items for the families she supports. Her mission is to provide clarity as to the financial actions that will have the largest positive impact on one’s future. Samantha provides comprehensive financial planning support that includes but is not limited to building tax-efficient distribution strategies in retirement, unwinding a concentrated stock position, year-to-year tax planning, charitable giving, and estate planning.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Samantha was a Lead Advisor at Mainsail Financial Group in Bellevue, WA, and was an Associate Director at Global View Capital Advisors.

Samantha earned her bachelor’s degree from Pacific Lutheran University, with a concentration in finance and a minor in mathematics. Outside of work, Samantha enjoys reading and running as well as tutoring middle/high-school students in math.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Was adopted at the age of 3 from China and looks forward to welcoming a child to her family soon
  • Starts the day with a run or work out on the elliptical
  • Has donated 10” of hair to Locks of Love

Samuel Coquillard

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Sam is a Partner & Managing Director at Composition Wealth and has over 30 years of investment experience in both equities and fixed income. He provides financial expertise to a predominantly high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth client base.

Sam started his career at Schroder Wertheim in institutional sales, and segued to Merrill Lynch, Chase H&Q, and then was a Senior Vice President at Los Angeles-based investment advisory firm Chelsea Management Company. Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Sam was a Managing Director at Pacific Global Investment Management.

Sam received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. As a third-generation Californian, Sam is a devout supporter of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Committed to giving back to the Jesuit system in which he was raised, Sam is an active philanthropist and supports education, having previously served on the board of Verbum Dei and St Michael’s School.

  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Third-generation Californian
  • Active philanthropist and supports education
  • Sports enthusiast

Shane Larson, CFP®

Director, Senior Wealth Advisor

Shane is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and works with individuals and families to create comprehensive wealth plans, emphasizing generational wealth transfer, charitable gifting, and estate planning.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Shane worked for another wealth management firm in Marin County, where he worked with a select group of clients, developing and managing their wealth plans.

Shane graduated from Washington State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and completed his certificate program at the University of California, Los Angeles. Shane lives in Marin County and spends most of his free time chauffeuring his son to all his activities.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation
  • Active Licenses: Series 66
  • Licenses previously maintained (not active): Series 7

Fun Facts:

  • Completed the 204-mile Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic
  • Has a personal goal of seeing all 30 MLB stadiums (19 so far!)
  • Huge fan of pizza and enjoys making it with his son at home

Sophia Trakhtman

Director, Wealth Advisor

Sophia is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and has a passion for guiding clients through an extensive financial education program where she can talk with them about personal finance and the importance of planning ahead. She is committed to providing clients with consistent service needed in developing, implementing, and maintaining a comprehensive business and individual strategy.

Before Composition Wealth, Sophia worked in the insurance business and worked as an insurance agent at Mutual of Omaha.

Sophia graduated at Towson University.

  • Active Licenses: Series 65

Fun Facts:

  • Enjoys teaching ballet.
  • Loves spending time with family, her husband, and her 2 dogs.

Stacey Smith

Director, HR/Recruiting

Stacey is the HR/Recruiting Director with Composition Wealth, supporting the Executive Team and working hard to create a positive experience for our clients and staff.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Stacey supported the President and Vice President of Strategy at Karp Capital Management. She previously worked in the Oil and Gas industry for 14 years as an Assistant to Senior Executives, developing her skills in executive support, project management and client relations.

Stacey is a native Texan and received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from The University of Texas at Arlington. She currently lives in Spring, Texas with her husband and two daughters. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

Fun Facts:

  • She coaches her daughter’s basketball team.
  • She visited Neverland Ranch and signed Michael Jackson’s memory wall after he passed away.
  • She has loved escargot since she was 2 years old and would eat it for every meal if she could.

Suzanne Taylor, CFP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Suzanne is a Wealth Advisor on the Retirement Services team at Composition Wealth, bringing over 22 years of experience in financial services.

Suzanne began her career as a Personal Financial Advisor with Ameriprise. She was Director of Investor Services at Shelton Capital Management, and later served as a Senior Retirement Advisor with ShareBuilder 401k. She is currently a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner.

Suzanne received her bachelor’s degree in Film Studies and English Writing from the University of Pittsburgh. She was raised in Kentucky but has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1996. Outside the office, Suzanne spends her time reading and enjoying the outdoors. She is also a board member and past president of the Rotary Club of San Francisco Evening.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation

Fun Facts:

  • She is obsessed with her two pit bulls, Libby Littlespoon and Edna Krabapple.
  • When she was young, she wanted to be a professional actress. She still does a little bit of acting on the stage (see: fun photo).


Timothy Shaw, CFP®

Director, Wealth Advisor

Tim is a Wealth Advisor at Composition Wealth and has over 2 decades of experience in the financial services industry and Wall Street. Tim works with clients to develop and implement customized financial plans and investment strategies.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Tim worked as a proprietary options trader for 15 years, which included having his own firm, Shaw Trading LLC from 2006 to 2010. Since then, Tim has worked as a financial advisor at Citibank.

Tim graduated from Lafayette College and had his MBA from Fordham Business School.

  • Holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation

    Fun Facts:
  • Ran the NYC Marathon
  • Has his picture taken in Rolling Stones magazine in an article about Wall Street. Unbeknownst to him at the time, his future wife was also in the picture!
  • Is an expert options trader

William Blanton

Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor

Billy is a Managing Director at Composition Wealth and has over 20 years of experience in investment management.

Prior to joining Composition Wealth, Billy was President and CEO of Vintage West Capital Management. His career began with Merrill Lynch in 1998, in which his diverse experiences range from providing financial advice and investment management services to overseeing four branch offices. In 2007, he continued to expand his services by joining Morgan Stanley’s Wealth Management Group.

Billy received his bachelor’s degree in Public Administration at San Diego State University.

Fun Facts:

  • Was inducted into the San Diego State University Aztec Hall of Fame for Football in 2015
  • Enjoys early morning Paddle Boarding along the San Diego beaches
  • Gives back by spending afternoons and weekends coaching youth sports