Significant wealth requires customized strategies tailored to your unique goals and priorities. We serve a limited number of individuals and families, allowing us to offer personalized, boutique-like services to help you simplify your life and pursue what’s important to you.
Meet the Team
The private wealth advisors with Merrill Private Wealth Management are rigorously trained to help meet your specialized needs with relationships based on trust and personalized service.
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Jeff is the founding partner of The Erdmann Group, a distinguished wealth management team based in Greenwich, Connecticut. He began his Merrill career in 1984 and has garnered national recognition as a leading financial advisor. He is the only advisor to have been named #1 on Forbes “America’s Top Wealth Advisors’ list for eight years running – 2016-2023 (Published annually Aug – Oct. Rankings based on data as of Mar 31 – June 30 of current year). Barron’s has recognized Jeff as one of America’s Top 100 Financial Advisors from 2004-2023 and the top advisor from Merrill on the list from 2009-2023 (Published annually Mar – April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year). In addition, honored Jeff with the esteemed Bank of America Corporation's David Brady Award in 2017, recognized for client focus, philanthropy and overall commitment to his company and community. In 2019, The Erdmann Group was ranked #1 Private Wealth Group by Barron’s Magazine and has remained in the Top 10 since (Published annually in April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year).
Drawing on his extensive experience, Jeff develops personalized strategies to address the complex needs of families with substantial wealth. The Erdmann Group's approach, which serves many founders, corporate executives, and entrepreneurs, is holistic in nature, addressing many of the needs and questions that a multi-generational family of wealth must consider. Jeff dedicates significant time within Merrill to run an elite training program and has coached thousands of advisor teams to create a better client experience. He has also been a keynote speaker for Forbes and Barron’s for the last two decades.
Jeff holds an Economics and Business degree from Ohio Wesleyan University, and was awarded the Distinguished Achievement Citation from his alma mater for his contributions to the field of economics. He, his wife Barbara, and three sons are actively philanthropic, dedicating significant time in particular to Open Doors, a homeless services organization in Norwalk, Connecticut, where they reside, and where Jeff is the Chairman of the Board of Directors. He also co-founded, along with his son Will, an summer enrichment program called The Lost Boys, which supports school aged children of African descent. Jeff is also a past trustee for New Canaan Country School, the Maritime Aquarium, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, and the Philadelphia Relief Foundation.
*Bank of America Corporation’s David Brady Community Service Award is named for David Brady, a Merrill financial advisor who died in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. He was highly respected for putting the client first and giving back to his community. The award that bears his name was created in 2007 and seeks to honor individuals within Bank of America Corporation Global Wealth & Investment Management who continue to emulate David’s ethos.
*Source: The Forbes “America’s Top Wealth Advisors” list, published annually Aug - Oct. Rankings based on data as of Mar 31 - June 30 of current year.
Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. America’s Top Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on inperson, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: a measure of best practices, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
*Source: The Barron’s “Top 100 Financial Advisors” list, published annually Mar – April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year.
The Barron’s “Top 100 Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and who have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. Quantitative and qualitative measures used to determine the advisor rankings include: client assets, return on assets, client satisfaction/retention, compliance records, and community involvement, among others. Rankings are based on the opinions of Barron’s and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s does not receive compensation from advisors, participating firms and their affiliates, or the media in exchange for rankings. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
*Source: The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State” list, published annually in February-March. Rankings based on data as of September 30 of prior year.
The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and who have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices, regulatory records, internal company documents, and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Years prior to 2014, this Barron's list consisted of 1,000 advisors.
*Source: Financial Times “400 Top Financial Advisers” list, published on March 30, 2017. Rankings based on data as of June 30, 2016.
The Financial Times “400 Top Financial Advisers” (FT 400) is an independent listing produced by the Financial Times. The FT 400 is based on data gathered from firms and verified by broker-dealer home offices, regulatory disclosures, and the FT’s research. The listing reflects each adviser’s performance in six primary areas, including assets under management, asset growth, compliance record, experience, credentials and accessibility as identified by the FT. Neither the brokerages nor the advisers pay a fee to the Financial Times in exchange for inclusion in the FT 400. The ranking or ratings shown here may not be representative of all client experiences because they reflect an average or sampling of the client experiences. These rankings or ratings are not indicative of any future performance or investment outcome.
*Source: The Barron’s “Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams” list, published annually in April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year.
The Barron’s “Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams” list is a ranking of wealth management teams that specialize in serving individuals and families. The teams are ranked on a variety of factors, including their size and shape, the regulatory records and credentials of their members and the resources they have at their disposal to serve their client bases. The Barron’s “Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and who have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. Quantitative and qualitative measures used to determine the advisor rankings include: client assets, return on assets, client satisfaction/retention, compliance records, and community involvement, among others. Rankings are based on the opinions of Barron’s and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s does not receive compensation from advisors, participating firms and their affiliates, or the media in exchange for rankings. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
Rob Giannetti is a Managing Director, Private Wealth Advisor of The Erdmann Group – Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri, where he has been a partner since 2001. His dedication to advising families of significant wealth is driven by a personal relationship that informs a highly customized strategy. This has afforded him national recognition by both Barron’s on the ‘Top 1,200 US Financial Advisors” list since 2017(Published annually in February-March. Rankings based on data as of September 30 of prior year) and Forbes “Best In State’ Wealth Advisors” list since 2018 (Published annually Jan – April. Rankings based on data as of June 30 of prior year). In 2023, Forbes ranked Rob #7 on the “Best In State Wealth Advisors” list (Published on April 7, 2023. Rankings based on data as of June 30, 2022).
Prior to joining Merrill, Rob spent over six years on Wall Street, starting in research and moving into the role of Portfolio Manager reporting to the Chief Investment Officer at Bank of New York, which informed much of his philosophy to this day. He is steeped in diverse markets across multiple asset classes, recognizing the importance of capital preservation and downside risk reduction, particularly given how closely he works with so many multi-generational families.
Rob also stewards the overall team portfolio strategy, helping develop the next generation of thinkers and leaders for The Erdmann Group as well.
Rob earned his Bachelor’s degree in Finance, with a minor in Economics from Fordham University. He also holds the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) designation sponsored by the Investments and Wealth Institute™ at the Wharton School.
Rob, and his wife Carey, enjoy time with their three children, Luke, Lucia, and Liam, at their home in Greenwich, Connecticut. As a family, they are actively involved in their community, dedicating time and energy supporting United Way; most recently leading a youth fundraising initiative. Rob’s enthusiasm personally is sports-focused, having actively volunteered and coached a number of teams over the last decade, with young kids as the primary beneficiary of his care and motivation.
*Source: The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State” list, published annually in February-March. Rankings based on data as of September 30 of prior year.
The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and who have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices, regulatory records, internal company documents, and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
**Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list, published annually Jan - April. Rankings based on data as of June 30 of prior year.
Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual, and telephone due diligence meetings to measure best practices; also considered are: client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
Mark Brookfield is a managing partner of the Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri Group within Merrill Private Wealth Management. Mark began his Merrill career in 2001, joined the Erdmann Group in 2004, and has received recognition throughout his career as a leading financial advisor. Mark holds a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification, awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. Recently, Forbes Magazine ranked Mark #13 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors in 2022 (Published on April 7, 2022. Rankings based on data as of June 30, 2021).
Mark advises senior executives of Fortune 500 companies, business owners, entrepreneurs, and ultra-affluent families on multiple facets of their financial lives. He works to deploy wealth more effectively and thoughtfully to help clients advance their personal, professional, and philanthropic objectives. Further, Mark examines both sides of a client’s balance sheet to identify gaps and capitalize on opportunities for more efficient deployment of capital. Mark values the client relationships that he has sustained over many years and is privileged to serve a very dynamic and accomplished client base.
Drawing on the resources of Merrill Private Wealth Management, Mark is skilled in a range of offerings, including estate planning services, inter-generational wealth transfer, concentrated stock strategies, and cash-flow modeling. He is also responsible for overseeing the Erdmann Group’s fixed-income portfolios. Mark recognizes the importance of capital preservation to ultra-affluent clients, sensitive to the sacrifices they have made in attaining their wealth. He looks to bring the expansive abilities of Merrill to clients in a warm and personalized manner.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science from the University of Connecticut. Mark lives in New Canaan, with his wife, Christine, and two daughters, Grace and Morgan.
*Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list, published on April 7, 2022. Rankings based on data as of June 30, 2021.
Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual, and telephone due diligence meetings to measure best practices; also considered are: client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
Tony Carpentieri is a managing partner of the Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri Group within Merrill Private Wealth Management. Listed as the #1 Next Generation Private Wealth Advisor in the 2022 & 2023 Forbes list of “America’s Top Next Generation Wealth Advisors” at Merrill (Published annually July – Sept. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of current year), he has in-depth experience advising senior executives of public and private companies, entrepreneurs, and families at the crossroads of transitions or significant life events.
Tony takes a highly personalized approach to the clients he serves while channeling the resources and capabilities of the firm to craft detailed, integrated strategies across multiple disciplines: investment management, wealth transfer, credit, philanthropy, as well as access to family office services. Tony is particularly skilled in helping clients with concentrated wealth enact investment advisory and estate planning strategies to facilitate preserving wealth across multiple generations while enhancing diversification.
Tony began his Merrill career in 2007. He earned his M.B.A. in Management and his B.B.A. in Finance, Business Economics and Legal Studies from Iona College. He holds the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor, CRPC designation and the Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, CDFA certification.
In 2022 & 2023, Tony was selected as one of the Top 40 under 40 Advisors by Financial Planning Magazine (Published annually Jan – Feb. Rankings based on data as of Sept 30 of prior year) and is listed as the #1 Forbes Top Next-Generation Wealth Advisor in the state of Connecticut from 2017-2023 (Published annually July – Sept. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of current year). In his free time, he sits on the Board of Trustees for the Alumni Association of Iona University and is a past-member on the Board of Trustees at Burke Catholic.
*Banking products and services provided by Bank of America, N.A.
*Source: The Forbes “Top Next-Generation Wealth Advisors” list, published annually July - Sept. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of current year.
Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes “Top Next Generation Wealth Advisors” ranking. SHOOK considered advisors born in 1983 or later with a minimum 4 years as an advisor. Advisors have: built their own practices and lead their teams; joined teams and are viewed as future leadership; or a combination of both. Ranking algorithm is based on qualitative measures: telephone and in-person interviews to measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
*Source: Financial Planning’s “Top 40 Advisors Under 40” list, published annually Jan - Feb. Rankings based on data as of Sept 30 of prior year. The ranking for the “Top 40 Advisors Under 40” list is compiled using data solicited from the advisors’ employers. Advisors considered must be under 40 years old and work at an employee brokerage firm. Individual trailing 12-month production for each advisor was the primary ranking criteria. Financial Planning is a national publication serving the wealth management industry and retail brokers working in the employee channel for wirehouses and regional broker-dealers. Rankings and recognition from Financial Planning are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Financial Planning is a trademark of Arizent. All rights reserved.
As part of Merrill Private Wealth Management, Tom applies his quantitative and analytical skills to help ultra-affluent clients advance their long- and short-term investment goals. At the Erdmann Group, he is responsible for performance analysis, capital markets execution, investment manager evaluation, and alternative investment tracking. Tom is experienced in a range of asset classes and vehicles. He brings a highly customized approach to distilling and pursuing each client’s investment needs.
Tom began his financial services career in 2005, working in corporate accounting for a Fortune 500 company. He joined Merrill in 2006.
Tom earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance with a minor in Economics from Fordham University. He also holds the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) designation sponsored by the Investments & Wealth Institute™ (The Institute) at the Wharton School. Tom lives in Wilton, Connecticut, with his wife, Meghan, and their two children, Avory and Thomas III.
*Some or all alternative investments may not be in the best interests for certain investors. Certain alternative investments carry significant risk and are not subject to the same regulatory oversight as mutual funds and other traditional investments. For these reasons, access to alternative investments may be limited to investors who are designated as sophisticated, high-net-worth investors.
Kersten joined the Erdmann Group in January 2021 as the Head of Talent and Growth. She supports the team in all aspects of business management from strategic planning to implementation.
Her experience as a former President/CEO in branding and marketing brings valuable perspective to all critical business areas -- client service, business development, talent management, communications and operational leadership. Given her background, Kersten also spearheads the team’s content creation, developing all communications, supporting Jeff in his extensive firm wide training programs, overseeing event strategy and planning while also contributing to various internal initiatives including Diversity & Inclusion and Leadership, Education, Advocacy and Development for Women.
In addition to her work with The Erdmann Group, Kersten is on the Board of Directors of Open Doors – an organization committing to ending homelessness in Connecticut. She is currently Vice President.
Kersten, and her two college aged kids, call Wilton home.
Trish joined Merrill in 2007 after 20 years of prior experience at Morgan Stanley. For the Erdmann Group, she is responsible for all aspects of account administration, including trading executions related to estate planning services, legacy gifting and client portfolios. Her goal is to provide complete satisfaction in all areas of client service. Trish is detail oriented, diligent, efficient, knowledgeable, organized and has a deep knowledge of the financial services industry. She has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management Pace from University in New York, as well as a law degree from the same university. She and her husband, Anthony, live in South Salem, New York, and have three children. Trish does not provide legal advice in her role at Merrill.
Susan Christy is an Assistant Vice President, Private Wealth Associate with the Erdmann Group. Head of team operations, Susan has extensive experience working closely with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, corporate executives, and their families. Her in-depth knowledge of investment products, restricted stock transactions, employee stock option transactions, and private equity tracking makes her an invaluable resource for clients.
Susan is skilled in working closely with families who have complex needs and unique circumstances. She is relentless in tracking down answers, bringing a proactive and determined sensibility to her work.
Susan joined Merrill in 1990. She is a graduate of Colorado State University.
Ken started at Merrill in 1989 and joined the Erdmann Group in 2000. For clients, he handles all aspects of account administration and service requests, which can include help with online account access, transactions and answers to questions. He can offer clients access to Bank of America for credit and lending needs. His goal is to provide complete satisfaction in all areas of client service. He strives to constantly exceed client expectations through efficient communication. Ken and his wife, Gail, have two children and live in Norwalk, Connecticut.
Tay joined Merrill in 1986 working in operations and has served many different roles during her tenure at Merrill from supervisory to support of regional managers and upper management. Tay shifted careers within the firm and joined The Erdmann Group in 2004 where she works as a Private Wealth Client Associate handling all aspects of account administration and service requests. Tay's goal is to provide complete satisfaction in all areas of client service. Tay enjoys volunteering at her local church working with youth and young adults. She and her husband, Jeophrey, have two grown daughters and live in Stamford, Connecticut.
Chelsea joined Merrill in 1998. She is an integral member of the Erdmann Group's administrative team. Chelsea leads the team's “WOW" initiative, which focuses on acts of random kindness and being a part of clients' lives in times that truly matter.
She has spent the past 25 years working closely with families, drawing on her extensive experience in addressing the administrative needs of high-net-worth families. She assists families and multiple generations in all aspects of servicing their accounts.
Chelsea lives in Rye, New York, with her husband, Sean.
Jeff is a Private Wealth Investment Management Specialist at the Erdmann Group. He is responsible for constructing and updating current and prospective clients' financial summary, asset allocation and performance metrics. Jeff continues to develop his proficiency in analyzing a variety of investment opportunities and strategies for clients of The Erdmann Group to keep up to date with the dynamic market environment. His role also includes being the primary point of contact for all external portfolio managers.
Jeff first joined Merrill as an intern while completing his bachelor’s degree in Finance and Economics at Sacred Heart University. He is former Division I Hockey player with a strong passion for the sport. Jeff lives with his wife, Dianis, in the Upper West of New York City.
*Asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.
Liza Carey is a Private Wealth Senior Relationship Manager for the Erdmann Group within Merrill Private Wealth Management. Liza works closely with our families to create personalized wealth strategies that support their goals and objectives.
Prior to joining the the Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri Group, Liza spent her career developing and delivering customized portfolio strategies for high-net-worth individuals, endowments and foundations in both Merrill and Morgan Stanley’s Chief Investment Offices. She is skilled in working with clients to effectively and thoughtfully develop customized portfolios, applying quantitative and analytical skills to help them advance their long- and short-term investment goals. She has experience advising senior executives, entrepreneurs, and families on an array of financial decisions that impact their lives.
Liza earned a bachelor’s degree in Business and Finance from Elon University in North Carolina. She is a Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) charterholder and a member of the New York Society of Security Analysts. Liza lives in Rowayton, Connecticut.
Glen is a Private Wealth Investment Management Specialist at the Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri Group. He started his career at Merrill in 2007 and joined the Erdmann Team in 2019. Glen holds the Accredited Wealth Management Advisor, AWMA designation. Glen draws from his experience to cultivate relationships while providing the most convenient and efficient service possible for our high-net-worth families.
Glen graduated from The Hagan School of Business at Iona College with a BBA in Finance and also studied at The Marino Institution of Education in Dublin, Ireland.
Glen resides in Wilton, CT with his wife, Justine, and their two children, Ava & Leo.
Tina joined the Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri Group in 2018 as an intern during her senior year of college and officially boarded the team as a Client Associate in July 2019. She helps families with day to day financial and account needs and finds pleasure in building relationships with her clients.
Tina graduated from Fairfield University in May 2019 with degrees in Finance and Business Analytics. She grew up in Wyckoff, NJ but now resides in New York City.
Laura Farrelly is a Private Wealth Senior Relationship Manager with the Erdmann Group within Merrill Private Wealth Management. With over ten years of experience in the financial industry, Laura has the privilege of working with ultra-affluent families to develop financial strategies that support their lifestyles and help them achieve their goals. She has extensive experience investing across asset classes and vehicles, and focuses on underwriting opportunities in the private markets. Prior to joining the Erdmann Group, Laura was a Managing Director at Algonquin Advisors LLC, where she worked closely with ultra-high net worth families and their foundations.
Laura is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) Charterholder and a member of the CFA® Society Stamford. She enjoys giving back to the community and currently serves on the Steering Committee for Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, Fund for Women and Girls. In recent years, she ran the TCS New York City Marathon to raise funds for cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering and the Gulf Beach Half Marathon to raise funds for children undergoing treatment at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital. Laura earned her bachelor’s degree at Davidson College, where she majored in English. She lives in Greenwich, CT with her husband, two daughters, and Irish terrier.
Will is a Private Wealth Investment Management Specialist at the the Erdmann Group– Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri. He is responsible for constructing and updating current and prospective clients' financial summary, and performance metrics for the team. Will continues to strengthen his knowledge of the industry and markets. His role also includes being one of the primary points of contact for all external portfolio managers.
Will first joined Merrill as an intern while completing his bachelor’s degree in Finance and Business Law at Fairfield University. He is former Division I Rower with other interests including golf, skiing, hiking and enjoys following all professional sports. Will currently resides in New York City.
Jodi is a Senior Private Wealth Associate and joined the Erdmann Group- Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri at Merrill in 2006 after working as a Client Associate at UBS Financial Services. Jodi oversees all operational functions including client service, portfolio management, loan management and account reporting. She is accustomed to working closely with families who have complex needs and unique circumstances. Jodi plays an integral role in assisting clients and families with day-to-day brokerage and personal banking needs and finds joy in helping facilitate their everyday lives.
Jodi graduated from Fairfield University with a B.A. in Finance. She resides in Rye, New York with her husband Billy, and three sons, William, Cole & Graham. Jodi enjoys skiing, traveling, spinning and spending time with her loved ones.
*Banking products and services provided by Bank of America, N.A.
Katheryn Jones is a Private Wealth Planner with the Erdman Group within the Merrill Private Wealth Management. Katheryn provides holistic estate and tax planning advice to ultra-high net worth individuals and families. Taking the time to understand the individual, their family, values and goals, Katheryn helps to tailor appropriate solutions to fit their needs. She works closely with each member of the team to help design unique strategies for wealth accumulation and wealth transfer.
Katheryn joined the team in April, having previously worked at GM Advisory Group, as a Wealth Strategist. Prior to GM Advisory Group, she worked at the Goldman Sachs Partners Family Office, Ayco, and Merrill Lynch Wealth Management.
She earned her LL.M. from Villanova School of Law’s Graduate Tax program and Juris Doctor from New England Law | Boston. Katheryn also earned her bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Temple University.
*Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.
Tonny Navarro is a Wealth Management Specialist for the Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri Group within Merrill Private Wealth Management. Tonny is responsible for supporting the team's overall investment management philosophy through executing on portfolio analysis and sharing extensive knowledge in a wide range of investment product areas. His focus is to help ensure risk profiles, goals, objectives and asset allocations are aligned and reflected properly for each client.
Prior to joining the Erdmann group, Tonny was a Senior Associate at Portfolio Advisors, LLC where he worked closely with institutional investors helping them develop private markets portfolios.
Tonny has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Sacred Heart University, a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Connecticut, and a Master’s in Finance from Georgetown University. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst®, CFA® charterholder and a Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst, CAIA designee.
*Asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.
*CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are registered trademarks by CFA Institute.
*CAIA is a registered certification mark owned and administered by the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association.
Dijana Stanisic is a Registered Private Wealth Client Associate for the Erdmann Group within Merrill Private Wealth Management. Dijana and her team work closely with high net worth individuals and families helping them navigate through their financial goals and needs. Her passion is building relationships with clients and providing them with personalized services with all matters related to their day-to-day and long term objectives.
Prior to joining the Erdmann Group in 2021, Dijana was a Financial Solutions Advisor within Merrill Consumer Investments. She currently holds The Accredited Wealth Management Advisor, AWMA designation as well as The Accredited Asset Management Specialist, AAMS designation.
Prior to joining Merrill in 2018, Dijana had a successful 18 year tenure in the luxury automotive industry working for both private and public companies such as Porsche, Audi and Mercedes-Benz in various management roles.
Kiersten “Kiki” Ohls joined the Erdmann Group in May 2022.
Her focus is to support the team by managing the day-to-day administrative needs of the partners and office, as well as organizing client and team events.
Kiki began her career in finance as an Analyst within the Financial Products Group at NatWest Markets and later as an Associate in marketing within the Derivative Products Group at Greenwich Capital Markets Inc. (formerly “NatWest Markets, Inc.”). In addition, Kiki has experience in volunteerism and event-planning at Brunswick School, Greenwich Academy, New Canaan Country School, and Pear Tree Point School, where she served on the board as Vice President and Secretary. Her unique background in both financial markets and event planning serves her detail-oriented and client-driven management style.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Villanova University. Kiki lives in Darien, Connecticut, with her children Charlotte, Ivey, and Willem and her Old English Sheepdog, Felix.
Elena Ferrante is a Registered Private Wealth Associate with the Erdmann, Giannetti, Brookfield, Carpentieri Group. She first joined the group as an intern during her junior year of college and became a member of the team in 2023, following a career with UBS Wealth Management. She aims to provide a detail-oriented, friendly, and efficient approach to assisting clients.
Elena graduated from Fordham University in 2021 with her Bachelor of Science in Finance & Applied Accounting. She is a former Division I Cheerleader with a passion for the sport and now spends her free time traveling. Elena lives in Katonah, New York, with her family and her cat, Spoods.
Brian joined Merrill as a Wealth Management Specialist after completing his Masters in Management degree from McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University. Prior, Brian received his bachelor's degree in Political Science at Colgate University. At both respective universities, Brian was a member of their Men’s Lacrosse Program. Brian continues to play lacrosse professionally in the Premier Lacrosse League. Brian currently resides in New York City and enjoys supporting New York sports teams.
Brian Minicus
Wealth Management Specialist
Mario was recently recognized by Barron’s in their annual list of Top 1,200 Financial Advisors in the United States, in 2017(Published on March 6, 2017. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2016). He began his career at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 1997 and has spent the last 20 years working with clients and assisting them in all aspects of their finances. He has helped clients through complex oversight of their investment portfolios, debt/mortgage analysis and estate planning strategies by working closely with their family, attorney and tax advisors.
Mario graduated from Fairfield University’s Business School in 1997. He lives in Greenwich, CT with his wife, Rhiannon, and two daughters. Mario supports various local charities and in his free time he enjoys skiing, golf and spending time with his family.
**Banking and lending services provided by Bank of America, N.A.
***Source: The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State” list, published on March 6, 2017. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2016.
Advisors considered for the “America’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State” ranking have a minimum of seven years of financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. Quantitative and qualitative measures used to determine the advisor rankings include: client assets, return on assets, client satisfaction/retention, compliance records, and community involvement, among others. Barron’s does not receive compensation from advisors, participating firms and their affiliates, or the media in exchange for rankings. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved. The ranking or ratings shown here may not be representative of all client experiences because they reflect an average or sampling of the client experiences. These rankings or ratings are not indicative of any future performance or investment outcome.
Benjamin C. Bryce is a Certified Private Wealth Advisor® professional, and Wealth Management Advisor who joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2005. He comes to Merrill from Ottawa, Canada, where he had been a financial advisor since 2003. He was named to Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Advisors" list in 2019 and 2020(Published annually Jan – April. Rankings based on data as of June 30 of prior year).*
Benjamin is an Economics major and graduate of Colgate University where he played four years of Division 1 NCAA hockey. After graduating Colgate University, he played one year of professional hockey in Germany before returning to Canada.
Benjamin resides with his wife and three daughters in New Canaan, Connecticut and is an active member of The Colgate Silver Puck Club, The Colgate Club of Fairfield County, The Cornell Club of New York, and The Canadian Association of New York.
*Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list, published annually Jan - April. Rankings based on data as of June 30 of prior year.
Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual, and telephone due diligence meetings to measure best practices; also considered are: client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
Andrew is a Senior Vice President and Wealth Management Advisor with the Erdmann Group. Andrew advises senior executives of public and private companies, entrepreneurs, venture capital partners, athletes and ultra-affluent families. Andrew was recognized and highlighted in the Forbes list of “America’s Top Next Generation Wealth Advisor’s list” in 2021 (*Published on September 21, 2021. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2021), and on the Forbes list of “Best-in-State Next Generation Wealth Advisor’s list” in 2019 and 2022 (*Published annually Aug – Sept. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of current year.)
Andrew takes a personalized approach to the families he serves spending significant time understanding the complexities of a client’s full financial picture, from day to day cash flow needs to long-term aspirations. Andrew then puts together a customized plan across multiple channels; investment management, wealth transfer and philanthropy.
Andrew joined Merrill in 2006. Andrew is a Finance and Economics major and graduate of the John F. Welch Business School of Sacred Heart University where he played four years of Division 1 NCAA hockey. He holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® certification, the Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, CDFA® certification and the Sports & Entertainment Accredited Wealth Management Advisor, SE-AWMA designation.
Andrew currently resides in Westchester, NY with his wife and two daughters.
A financial professional with over 20 years of legal and financial services experience, from 2001 to 2011, Read was head of trading of Eos Partners, L.P. Prior to Eos, He was an analyst and trader at Kadem Capital. Before that, Read practiced corporate law at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP and Clifford Chance LLP.
Read graduated Cum Laude from Harvard College, where he played varsity football and lacrosse. Read is also a graduate of NYU School of Law. He is admitted to practice law in NY, CT and the Federal Courts. Read does not offer legal advice in his role as Financial Advisor.
Active in his community, Read is on the Boards of Mission a.k.a. The CT Challenge, The Norwalk Community College Foundation, SoundWaters and the NYC Executive Board of Harlem Lacrosse and The Open Doors Shelter in Norwalk, CT.
Read is a bad golfer, a mediocre cross fitter and steadfastly refuses to quit playing lacrosse.
Brian is a qualified Portfolio Manager who, in addition to providing traditional advice and guidance, can help clients pursue their objectives by building and managing his own personalized or defined strategies, which may incorporate individual stocks and bonds, Merrill model portfolios, and third-party investment strategies. When servicing clients through the firm’s Investment Advisory Program, a Portfolio Manager may manage his strategies on a discretionary basis. Brian also helps clients manage concentrated risk exposures by utilizing his background in options and derivatives. His team’s efforts provide private, endowment, and corporate clients with some of the most creative financial advice available.
Brian graduated with a BA in Business, Fine Arts, and Liberal Arts from Indiana University. He grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and moved to New York City in 2006. Brian enjoys reading, skiing, traveling, and exploring the city. Brian lives on the Upper East Side with his wife and two young children. He holds Series 7, Series 3, and Series 66 FINRA registrations as well as insurance licenses. Brian joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2006.
*Options involve risk and are not suitable for all investors. Before engaging in the purchase or sale of options, investors should understand the nature of and extent of their rights and obligations and be aware of the risks involved in investing with options. Prior to buying or selling an option, clients must receive the options disclosure document Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options. This document is available by contacting your Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor
Josh serves c-suite/founding teams, athletes/entertainers and multi-generational families of closely held private businesses. He provides a boutique, family office approach, within a global financial institution... simply put, "make a big place feel small." His process centers not only on the day-to day core competencies clients would come to expect from a high performing team, but most importantly the experience and access to top ideas and thought leadership on the "non-playbook" areas that come with significant wealth and complexities of their particular lifestyles.
Josh spends his free time being active outdoors and on the Connecticut shoreline with his family. Some of the causes he dedicates time and energy to include, the Smilow Cancer Hospital /Yale Cancer Center's yearly Closer to Free 100 mile bike ride and The Navy Seal Foundation.
He resides in Madison, Connecticut with his wife Courteney and their two boys Remington and Ashton.
Craig is a Financial Advisor with the Erdmann Group. Craig advises senior executives of public and private companies, entrepreneurs, private equity partners and ultra-affluent families.
Craig takes a personalized approach to the families he serves spending a significant time understanding the complexities of a client’s full financial picture, from day to day cash flow needs to long-term aspirations. Craig then puts together a customized strategy across multiple channels; investment management, wealth transfer and philanthropy.
Prior to Merrill, Craig worked for 5 years at RMB Capital, a Chicago based investment management firm and has been in the financial services industry for over 10 years. While attending the University of Pennsylvania, Craig played four years of Division 1 Lacrosse and was a two-year captain.
Craig currently lives in Fairfield, CT with his wife and two sons
Merrill is proud of our advisors who’ve received recognition from financial industry publications or directly from Bank of America Corporation. We believe they are setting the standard for exemplary client service.
Jeff Erdmann
Forbes "America's Top Wealth Advisors" 2016-2023 Published annually Aug - Oct. Rankings based on data as of Mar 31 - June 30 of current year.
Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2023 Published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.*
Barron's "Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-By-State" 2023 Published on March 10, 2023. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2022.
Barron's "Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams" 2019-2022 Published annually in April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year.
Barron's "Top 100 Financial Advisors" 2004-2023 Published annually March - April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year.
Robert Giannetti
Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2023 Published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.*
Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Advisors" 2018-2023 Published annually Jan- April. Rankings based on data as of June 30 of prior year.
Barron's "Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State" 2017-2023 Published annually in February - March. Rankings based on data as of September 30 of the prior year.
Mark A Brookfield
Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2023 Published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.*
Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Advisors" 2020-2023 Published annually Jan- April. Rankings based on data as of June 30 of prior year.
Anthony Alan Carpentieri
Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2023 Published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.*
Forbes "Top Next-Generation Wealth Advisors" 2017-2023 Published annually Jul. - Sept. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of current year.
Forbes "Best-in-State Next-Generation Wealth Advisors" 2019, 2022, 2023 Published annually Aug - Sept. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of current year.
Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Advisors" 2022, 2023 Published annually Jan- April. Rankings based on data as of June 30 of prior year.
Financial Planning's "Top 40 Advisors Under 40" 2022 Published on February 1, 2022. Rankings based on data as of Sept 30, 2021.
Strategies designed to help you achieve your goals
As a client of Merrill Private Wealth Management, you have access to services and resources ordinarily reserved for the world’s largest institutions. We work with individuals, families spanning multiple generations, business owners and executives. Using a goals-based wealth management approach, we put our clients at the center of every personalized strategy.
Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, The Erdmann Group has distinguished itself by providing customized advice and guidance to a select group of corporate executives, business owners and affluent families.
We are a 33 member team that have been entrusted with over $14B in assets, as of June 2022. We are relentless in our focus on risk-adjusted performance relative to a client’s long-term goals. We bring warmth, compassion and coordination to clients’ wealth management that we feel is distinctive.
Our team's most recent accolades:
Barron's: #1 Private Wealth Management Team in US 2019; Top 10 Private Wealth Management Team in the United States in 2019-2022 Forbes: One of the Top Five Private Wealth Advisory Teams in the United States 2022
Our leader, Jeff Erdmann, has garnered a number of national accolades:
Forbes: Named #1 on Forbes ”America Top Wealth Advisor” list in 2016-2022.2 Barron’s: Top 100 Financial Advisors in the Nation, 2004 – 2022, including the Number 1 Advisor at Merrill from 2009 – 2022.3 Barron’s: Top Advisor Rankings, State-by-State, 2009 – 2022.4 Financial Times: Top 400 Financial Advisors, 2017.5
1 Barron’s “Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams” Published annually in April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year.
2 Forbes “America’s Top Wealth Advisors” Published annually Aug – Oct. Rankings based on data as of Mar 31 – June 30 of current year.
3 Barron’s “Top 100 Financial Advisors” Published annually Mar – April. Rankings based on data as of December 31 of prior year.
4 Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State” Published annually in February-March. Rankings based on data as of September 30 of prior year. Years prior to 2014, this Barron's list consisted of 1,000 advisors.
5 Financial Times “400 Top Financial Advisers” Published on March 30, 2017. Rankings based on data as of June 30, 2016.
6 Forbes “America’s Top Wealth Management Teams Private Wealth” 2022 Published on November 8, 2022. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.
Our Philosophy
We believe your unique goals should be at the center of all of your financial decisions and form the foundation of your financial strategy. Because significant wealth requires customized goals-based financial strategies, we believe in building lasting relationships with a limited number of clients, taking the time to understand your most important priorities for today, tomorrow and your long-term future. Our philosophy celebrates collaboration. Working with a team of specialists, we draw on the resources and insights of a global financial institution to create strategies that reflect your aspirations for yourself and current and future generations of your family. Finally, we believe that while significant wealth brings complex challenges, our experience, passion and perspectives can help you simplify your life.
Value Proposition
We operate as a small boutique inside a global bank offering a suite of family office type services:
1. Wealth Management Planner – We clearly articulate how each financial decision impacts financial security; both in the long and short-term. We focus on outcomes to the stuff that matters to a family: education of future generations, buying a second home, investing in other businesses.
2. Investment Advisory Services – Have a clear understanding of your financial goals to help make sure your lifestyle is never disrupted. The effort is to help secure, improve and preserve investment assets offering a completely objective asset allocation mix
3. Personal Banker – Facilitate and take care of all credit and balance sheet management including mortgages, credit cards, basic banking, bill payment etc. *
4. Philanthropic Consultant – Assist families in their philanthropic pursuits to establish a family legacy as well as invest in the charitable causes that are most important to them.
5. + Friend – We are intentional about impact every day. We will be in the trenches with you when the world and/or family goals appear to be unbalanced and celebrating with you with life events and when goals have been accomplished
Banking products and services provided by Bank of America, N.A.
Helping Families Navigate Significant Wealth
Clients’ lifestyle needs, cash-flow requirements, and wealth preservation goals are the foundation of our work. We begin by asking what matters to the families we serve, and we never stop asking that question. We have built our team from the ground up to respond to the needs of significant wealth.
We have extensive experience advising clients before, during, and after life’s transitions:
Family transitions, such as births, weddings, deaths, or divorces
Purchase, sale, merger, or transfer of a business
Executive decisions, such as retirement, deferred compensation, board involvement, gifting of a business, or taxes in consultation with your tax professionals
Philanthropic endeavors, managing and consulting services for foundations and endowments, and personal gifting
An Emphasis on the Family
We recognize that affluence can place unusual demands on families. We offer a range of services to promote the positive transmission of values and wealth between generations. Specifically, we partner with highly respected professionals who can facilitate constructive dialogue within families about their collective vision and expectations of wealth. These sessions enable families to defuse the potential pressures that accompany wealth so that they can more fully enjoy the responsibilities and opportunities that affluence presents.
"We make it a point to understand what matters most to each client, whether they’re a retired teacher or selling their company. What will they need to live on and to help their children? Can they afford to buy a second home? How should they support causes near and dear and what about their legacy? It’s about understanding the goals they have for their money.” Jeff Erdmann, Private Wealth Advisor
For clients of substantial means, Merrill Private Wealth Management provides an experience that is both powerful and personal. We are dedicated to helping you pursue your goals for today while developing an approach designed to support your family members for the years to come.
Your private wealth advisor and team of specialists work with a limited number of clients, enabling them to focus their time, training and passion on helping you simplify your personal and business finances and prepare your next generation.
Boutique-like service with the access to the investment resources of Merrill and banking convenience of Bank of America
We combine the personalized attention and feel of a smaller firm with the power and insights of a global financial institution, creating financial strategies tailored to your unique situation.
A relentless commitment to transparency and customized strategies
As our client, know we are working in your best interests, providing goals-based financial strategies designed to anticipate and help meet your evolving financial needs.
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