Buddy McNeese, AWMA®, CRPC®

BOOK A MEETING WITH BUDDY

I didn’t come up through Wall Street – I clawed my way in.

My unconventional start in financial services began with a job as a part-time teller, fresh out of college, with an appetite to learn and a drive to grow. When the bank wouldn’t let me pursue investments, I found a mentor, studied everything I could get my hands on, and ultimately convinced Dean Witter to take a chance on me. That was 30 years ago, but the same hustle still drives me today.

I’ve worked in every channel of this business and advised just about every type of client. My focus now is on high-net-worth families—helping them manage risk, build thoughtful portfolios, and navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. I monitor markets daily and dig deep into research, which is one of the key values I bring to my clients. We plan for both the ups and the downs of the market; volatility doesn’t keep me up at night because I am prepared for it.

Before embarking on my professional journey, I earned a degree in English Literature from the University of Georgia — an experience that sharpened my analytical thinking, communication skills, and curiosity about the world. Though I didn’t study finance in the classroom, I quickly found my passion for it in the real world. Since then, I’ve pursued advanced credentials including the Accredited Wealth Management Advisor℠ (AWMA®) and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠ (CRPC®) designations. These programs deepened my expertise in everything from tax-efficient investing and estate planning to guiding clients through retirement income strategies—knowledge I apply daily in serving complex client needs.

For me, financial planning and portfolio management are like complex 4D puzzles, and I thoroughly enjoy piecing together all the elements involved. It is incredibly satisfying to see how all the components align and create a comprehensive strategy.

Outside of work, I live on St. Simons Island with my wife of 29 years—an ultramarathon runner who keeps us traveling across the Southeast. I’m a black belt in jiu jitsu, a proud dad, and a checklist addict. I’m an early riser who tackles strategy games and to-do lists before most people have made coffee.