Wealth Management and Tech-An IT Team That Knows How to Communicate

The role of “technology leader” may not be the first impression one might have of a century-old investment advisory firm. But Bartlett & Co. is one venerable firm that has had a foot in 21st century technology for some time.

“For a 120-year-old firm, we have always believed an investment advisor should be a technology leader, especially when it comes to security,” says Kelley Downing, Bartlett & Co. President and CEO.

“The reality is, if you want to be a leading investment advisor in Cincinnati, you have to have a really good handle on the importance of leading-edge technology,” says Matthew Whalen, Director of IT at the firm.

Bartlett has been a force in Cincinnati investment circles since the late 1890s. Today, it’s an employee-owned wealth management firm with 47 employees, providing tailored investment solutions in both financial management and planning for individuals and institutions. As of July 31, 2017, Bartlett has $4.0 billion in assets under management and has been named one of the top 300 registered investment advisors by the Financial Times.

Downing, who was named the first female president and CEO of Bartlett in 2007, says the company’s legacy has always included a commitment to leading-edge technology. Dating to the early ’70s, Bartlett was one of the first investment firms to recognize the importance of bringing technology in-house.

Downing says a CEO has to have a good understanding of the tech world, including what upgrades are needed and what they can do for clients. That’s where an IT leader who knows the business is critical.

“I view my job as translator,” Whalen says, noting in some businesses the IT team “can be in their own silos,” perceived as standoffish and not effectively communicating to management the needs and applications of technology.

Bartlett’s IT team is indeed unique with a wealth of experience merging tech expertise with an understanding of the exigencies of an investment firm. Whalen has been with Bartlett since 1990, starting out as a third-shift computer operator. Whalen’s staff of three is experienced as well: the youngest member has been with the firm for 20 years.

Bartlett offers clients a suite of leading tech tools starting with a user-friendly interface. As Whalen puts it: “People want to know how I did as of yesterday. That ease of logging in, with nice graphics, is table stakes these days.”

Whalen says the firm partners with some of the top minds in the cybersecurity world to ensure a safe and secure environment. Financial planning and investment presentations are frequently done with iPads; video conferencing with out-of-town clients is the norm.

Downing believes Whalen and his team break the mold of how IT people usually interact with the rest of a business. “They understand the best way to communicate with our clients. In the last five years, we have added a lot of new software, whether it’s a new tool or upgrades. There is always something new going on.”

Bartlett & Company is located at 600 Vine Street, Suite 2100, Cincinnati, OH 45202. For more information, call 513.621.4612 or visit bartlett1898.com.