Chris Shepler: A Leading Financial Expert in Wealth Management and Investment Strategies
In today’s complex financial landscape, finding a reliable and experienced advisor is crucial for individuals and organizations aiming to maximize their wealth and achieve financial goals. Chris Shepler, a seasoned financial expert with over 25 years of experience, has established himself as a trusted advisor for high-net-worth individuals, nonprofit institutions, and business owners. Currently serving as Vice President and Investment Officer at Fiduciary Trust Company in Boston, Massachusetts, Shepler brings deep expertise in wealth management, investment strategy, and endowment management. His impressive background in financial planning and commitment to client success make him a valuable asset to those seeking financial security and growth.
Early Education and Professional Development
Chris Shepler’s journey in finance began with a solid educational foundation. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Yale University, an Ivy League institution known for fostering leaders in various fields. Following his undergraduate studies, Shepler pursued an MBA in Business from Edinburgh Business School, further enhancing his understanding of finance, strategy, and business operations. These degrees gave him the analytical skills and strategic mindset essential for navigating the financial industry’s challenges.
Building a Career in Wealth Management
Chris Shepler’s career began at Bainco International Investors, a boutique investment firm where he served as Investment Director and Portfolio Strategist. This role provided him with invaluable experience in security analysis, portfolio management, and client relations. Over nearly a decade, he worked on various aspects of investment management, including private equity and venture capital deals. His responsibilities included preparing portfolio reviews and discussing the firm’s investment strategy with clients, which laid the groundwork for his future roles in wealth management.
At Bainco, Shepler developed a reputation for his ability to connect with clients and understand their unique financial goals. This client-centric approach became a hallmark of his career, enabling him to build long-lasting relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Entrepreneurial Venture and Leadership Experience
In 2004, Chris Shepler took on an entrepreneurial challenge by founding Porticus Technology, a wireless security startup. As both Founder and CFO, he successfully raised three rounds of investor capital and managed the business’s strategy and operations. His role at Porticus allowed him to gain hands-on experience in business development, financial management, and strategic planning—skills that would later benefit his work in the financial industry.
Shepler has often stated that his entrepreneurial venture at Porticus was a formative experience that provided him with a “real-world MBA.” The challenges of running a startup taught him resilience and flexibility, which he carried forward into his financial career.
Gaining Expertise in Quantitative Analytics at MSCI Inc.
Following his time at Porticus, Chris Shepler joined MSCI Inc. as an Executive Director. MSCI is renowned for its risk and performance analytics products, including the Barra analytics suite, widely used by investment professionals worldwide. At MSCI, Shepler led a team of sales and client service specialists who supported investment managers in building data-driven, optimized portfolios. His role involved collaborating with some of the industry’s most successful portfolio managers and analysts, allowing him to deepen his expertise in quantitative analytics and risk management.
Shepler’s work at MSCI equipped him with a sophisticated understanding of portfolio construction and performance analysis. His knowledge of quantitative analytics has been instrumental in his ability to offer well-informed, data-driven advice to clients at Fiduciary Trust Company.
Leading in Nonprofit and High Net Worth Investment at Cambridge Associates
Chris Shepler’s next career move took him to Cambridge Associates, where he served as Senior Director in the Endowments & Foundations Practice. Cambridge Associates is known for its commitment to nonprofit institutions and high-net-worth clients, and Shepler excelled in this client-facing role. He collaborated closely with nonprofits, helping them manage their endowment and foundation assets to align with their mission-driven goals. His work at Cambridge Associates further cemented his reputation as an expert in nonprofit investment strategies.
Shepler’s client-first philosophy was evident during his tenure at Cambridge. He took the time to understand each client’s unique needs and worked to create customized investment solutions. His ability to blend personal attention with institutional-level expertise made him a sought-after advisor for nonprofits and family clients.
Role at Fiduciary Trust Company: High Net Worth and Nonprofit Focus
In September 2021, Chris Shepler joined Fiduciary Trust Company as Vice President and Investment Officer, where he continues to serve. His role at Fiduciary Trust Company involves working with high-net-worth families, business owners, and nonprofit organizations. He is dedicated to providing tailored investment strategies, estate planning, and wealth management solutions. For business owners, he assists in planning their exit strategies, ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing the financial benefits of their business exit.
Shepler’s approach at Fiduciary Trust is holistic, considering each client’s financial picture and personal goals. His expertise in estate and trust management, combined with his knowledge of nonprofit investment, allows him to deliver strategies that align with his clients’ financial and mission-oriented needs.
Core Skills and Areas of Expertise
Over the years, Chris Shepler has honed a diverse set of skills that make him an influential advisor in wealth management and investment:
- Wealth Transfer: Shepler helps high-net-worth families plan the transfer of wealth across generations, taking into account tax implications and legacy goals.
- Nonprofit Organizations: His experience working with endowments and foundations enables him to offer specialized guidance for nonprofits looking to maximize their financial resources.
- Estate Planning and Trust Management: Shepler’s knowledge of estate planning allows him to assist clients in structuring their estates to fulfil their wishes while minimizing tax burdens.
- Investment Management: His experience in portfolio strategy and risk management ensures that his clients’ investments align with their long-term goals.
- Philanthropic Advisory: As a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), he provides clients with insights into charitable giving and helps them fulfil their philanthropic goals tax-efficiently.
Professional Certifications and Education
To complement his professional experience, Chris Shepler has earned multiple certifications that reflect his commitment to excellence in the field of wealth management:
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): This designation underscores his investment management and financial analysis expertise.
- Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA): This certification demonstrates his knowledge of fiduciary responsibilities and trust management.
- Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA): This qualification enables him to offer specialized advice to business owners planning their exits.
- Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP): This certification highlights his charitable giving and philanthropic planning skills.
Shepler’s certifications are a testament to his dedication to providing his clients with the highest level of service. His extensive knowledge in these areas allows him to offer well-rounded and practical financial advice.
Community Involvement and Personal Interests
Beyond his professional achievements, Chris Shepler is deeply committed to his community. He serves as Treasurer for Stone Rehabilitation & Senior Living and is involved with BSA Troop 62 in Duxbury. Additionally, he is a Youth Missions Leader at St. John the Evangelist Church and founded the Duxbury Bike to School initiative, reflecting his passion for youth development and community service.
On a personal level, Shepler enjoys music, singing, and cycling. His interests provide a balanced lifestyle that contributes to his effectiveness as a financial advisor, allowing him to bring empathy and perspective to his client interactions.
Conclusion
Chris Shepler’s career is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and client-focused approach to wealth management and investment. His experience with high-net-worth families, nonprofit institutions, and business owners highlights his versatility and commitment to helping clients achieve their financial and personal goals. As a trusted advisor at Fiduciary Trust Company, Shepler continues to make a significant impact, providing customized strategies that address the complexities of wealth management, estate planning, and philanthropic goals. Chris Shepler represents an exemplary choice in the financial industry for those seeking a knowledgeable and reliable partner in their financial journey.
