MORRISTOWN, NJ, Sept. 23, 2021
Private Advisor Group, one of the largest and fastest-growing independent wealth management firms in the country*, nominated Andrew Komarow, founder of Planning Across the Spectrum, as an InvestmentNews 2021 Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award winner. Komarow, along with 14 other individuals, were named as “see it be it” role models and selected from more than 120 nominations by a committee of InvestmentNews representatives. Komarow was chosen in part for his ability to inspire others from diverse backgrounds to join, flourish and bring their true selves to work in the financial services industry.
Komarow has dedicated his life’s work to serving individuals with autism and other disabilities. In addition to leading a firm focused on helping families navigate critical financial decisions, he helps advocate and educate the broader business community on inclusivity and belonging with a Consulting for Employers Program. He helps employers to hire neurodivergent workers and provides employee education, ABLE accounts, health insurance and retirement plan strategies specifically designed to recruit and retain neurodiverse talent in the competitive landscape. His team brings first-hand experience and knowledge to their work as Komarow, along with the majority of his staff, is Neurodiverse.
The CDC reports that “more than 25% of Americans have a disability that affects their daily lives.” Some of the topics the firm helps families and individuals address encompasses:
- How to care for an individual with disabilities as an adult
- How to plan, when you yourself have a disability or think differently.
- How to incorporate ABLE accounts & Special Needs Trusts
- Questions family members may not have on radar to ask
Frank Smith, Head of Advisor Growth at Private Advisor Group, shared, “Andrew’s passionate advocacy for neurodiversity awareness has better positioned professionals to serve the special needs community by helping guide crucial conversations and adjust communication styles to be more aware of inclusive gestures and programs. Andrew’s team has helped countless clients on their path to financial security with much of their work being pro bono. He is truly a role model to many and we’re so proud of this well-deserved recognition.”
This was InvestmentNews’ fourth annual Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion recognition program. The awards aim to tell the stories of individuals and firms that have used their successes, leadership skills, and willingness to implement and advocate for diversity and inclusion within the financial advisory industry. Learn more and see these year’s honorees by visiting www.dandiin.com.