Meet Sara
We are pleased to introduce our new team member, Sara Smith!
Sara is joining Brand Asset Management Group as part of our operations team. She will be working alongside Jim and Karry to assist clients with distribution requests and questions, charitable giving, and general custodial support. Sara’s official bio can be read on our website here, but to help you learn a little more about the newest member of the BAMG family, we’ve asked her to answer a few questions…
Tell us a little about where you grew up and your life now?
I grew up in a small town south of Springfield, IL and am 1 of 4 girls raised by very patient and loving parents. They brought me up to work hard and to be an independent woman at a young age, which helped me when I moved to the St. Louis to attend college. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a Finance Specialization from SIUE in 2002.
I met my husband, Jason, 10 years ago through some mutual friends and we have been married for close to 4 years. We reside in Dardenne Prairie and have hopes of having children soon.
What are you passionate about – both professionally and personally? Are there any causes particularly close to your heart?
I am passionate about roles that let me utilize my strengths to make a positive impact on people’s lives. I am very passionate about family, so I find myself drawn to organizations that give me the opportunity to work with people and their loved ones. I am also passionate about giving back to the community, especially when it pertains to children and families.
While on a vacation to Ireland, we met a couple who are from St. Louis area (small world) and they told us about their grandchild who has Down Syndrome. Their son’s family created the organization Working Wonders 4 Downs that raises money through an annual golf tournament/auction to donate back to the Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis for education and awareness programs. Since learning about their organization, I have been a volunteer every year and my husband plays in their tournament.
You’ve had a lot of experience in the financial industry, including moving into leadership positions within a regional bank at a relatively young age. Can you share a bit about your career so far and why you were drawn to BAMG?
I got into the financial industry not long after high school. I began as a bank teller and did this all throughout college. After graduating, I was promoted to a personal banker. In this role, I received multiple excellence awards, which gave me a lot of exposure and led to becoming a manager. When I ended my banking career, I was an Assistant VP at a local community bank. That’s when I transitioned into wealth management, where I served as a Compliance Manager.
I was drawn to BAMG because of the culture and the passion they display for their clients. I love being in a work environment where you are always uplifted and encouraged to grow. I’m blessed to have found this great company and look forward to my future here.
On a typical weekend, where would we find you and Jason?
We love the outdoors. I love to hike and do outdoor yoga; Jason loves to fly-fish, golf, and hike. Since buying our new house, we love to garden and have neighborhood BBQ’s. Outside of those activities, we love traveling, spending time with family and friends, reading, cooking, and curling up to a good book or movie.
We are excited to welcome Sara Smith to the team and can’t wait for you to meet her!
Sincerely,
Brand Asset Management Group