OUR ADVISORY TEAM
Our experienced advisors are here to guide you through all phases of your financial journey with comprehensive, unbiased advice.
BRIAN WARD, CPA
President
Brian has over 35 years of advisory experience in investments, retirement, tax planning and small business advising. He co-founded Ward, Schmerbeck and Billig, CPA’s in 1996 and W&S Investment Management Services in 1999. From career and business startup, through growth, life changes, and eventually retirement, Brian has worked closely with hundreds of businesses and individuals at all stages of their journey
Brian has been married to his wife Jean for 41 years and they have four grown children. He has long been committed to helping others through his involvement in many charities and is currently the Director of St Francis Food Pantry. He is past President of the Rochester District Golf Association and past Board member of St. Joseph’s Villa. An avid golfer, he is a member of Lakeshore Country Club.
NATHAN WARD
Vice President
Nate has a dual focus on the planning needs of small business owners and crafting investment strategies to match. Nate’s last 15 years have included everything from negotiating business exits, to overseeing the valuation and integration of software company acquisitions, to helping a recent graduate set up their first 401k. He is passionate about work with younger people and those who are early on their entrepreneurial path, with the goal of matching high-quality framework and advice at the most impactful junctures for each of his clients
A graduate of William & Mary with a degree in finance, Nate began his career at Wachovia Securities in risk oversight before moving to W&S Management. Outside of the office, you’ll find Nate refereeing youth soccer, engaged in mentorship of newly resettled refugees or discovering new restaurants with his wife Nadia.
SALVATORE PATERNICO, CFP®
Advisor
Sam joined W&S Management Services in the spring of 2021, after nearly a decade at Fidelity and ESL Investment Services LLC. Sam is passionate and takes a client centered approach to financial planning. He came to W&S Management as a remedy to the high fees, poor communication and improper risks he often sees elsewhere in the financial services industry. He is excited to apply his expertise in a fee only environment where the needs and financial outcomes of the client come first.
Salvatore (Sam) Paternico resides in Rochester, New York with his wife Tina and dog Shadow. He enjoys spending time with family and friends and can often be found golfing at Deerfield Country Club or exercising at Murray’s Martial Arts.