People

Key Players

Meet the people who are shaping the future of the communities they live in while inspiring everyone they meet along the way. Though their stories are all different and their backgrounds, histories, hopes and dreams vary, the one thing each has in common is a passion for what they do and their ability to see past themselves for the benefit of others. In the following pages, you’ll meet this issue’s Key Players and get a brief glimpse into their lives. If you happen to run into one of them during your daily routine, take a moment to salute them. They’ve earned it.

Top Numbers

“Developing financial plans isn’t just about understanding markets; compassion and solutions are also important.”

As a CFP, VP & Branch Manager for Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., Alexis McComb is all about translating hard work into a prosperous future. And she would know how — she immigrated from Poland when the country was under communist rule, and vividly remembers seeing talented and hardworking individuals struggle to provide a better life for their loved ones. When she came to the U.S., McComb says, she recognized the opportunities and rewards it offered to individuals who worked hard and planned ahead. “It inspired me to help people find ways to enjoy the fruits of their labor,” she explains. “Our clients trust us to provide them with the best solutions to help them reach their goals — to do that, I must take the time to listen to their hopes, fears and aspirations and be truly dedicated to working together with them.”

Quick Facts
Run, McComb, run!: “My first professional running shirt said Are My Kids Still Chasing Me?”
On her bucket list: “I’d like to write a novel. My favorite books delve into the psyches of the characters.”
Life philosophy: “Don’t be afraid to let people in. That’s the only way you’ll form meaningful relationships.”

Text by Cristina Zuazua; Photo: Antonio Eli

Alexis McComb, CFP, is VP & Branch Manager of Charles Schwab & Co, Inc.; 1000 Brickell Ave., Ste. 201, Miami; 305.755.5301; Schwab.com/Miami.

Elite Finance

“We support successful individuals and families in creating, maintaining and transferring their wealth.”

“I never thought at a young age that I’d study business or be a banker,” recalls Orlando Roche. “I was lucky, though — I started studying medicine and later architecture, but I eventually gravitated to finance and economics.” Roche, now the Regional President of Sabadell Bank & Trust – Miami-Dade County, goes on to say that he got involved in banking because it allowed him to learn how different industries and businesses operated. After being exposed to corporate and commercial real estate, he moved to private wealth because it allowed him to assist families on both sides of their balance sheets. In his current role, he feels he has finally found his calling: “Playing a role, small or large, in our clients’ success is, by far, the most rewarding experience for me,” he says.

Quick Facts
Strategy is his game: “As a self-taught chess player, I won a trophy at a chess tournament in middle school, beating some very experienced players.”
Where he started: “My first job was a summer stint at the loan collection department in AmeriFirst Savings & Loans.” His fridge is full of…“chocolate ice cream…for my kids!”

Text by Cristina Zuazua; Photo: Antonio Eli

Orlando Roche is the Regional President of Sabadell Bank & Trust – Miami-Dade County; 1111 Brickell Ave., Ste. 2910, Miami; 305.347.4175; SabadellBank.com.

Strong Accounts

“We understand client needs and build long-lasting relationships; it’s the highlight of my everyday experience.”

Lior Levy is all about people. As a CPA at Lancaster & Reed, his mission includes assisting clients around the world with resolving tax issues and complying with changing tax regulations. The main thing to remember, the professional numbers-cruncher says, is that while the subject matter may seem impersonal, his job is to make sure he guides each of his clients through the complex U.S. International Tax Code to arrive at favorable solutions while maintaining compliance. Growing up in Israel gives Levy a unique perspective on international taxation issues. His calling came while he was still in college. “I was working in a local restaurant when I happened to serve the CEO of a large publicly traded company,” he says. “He offered me a job, and I became an intern and eventually part of the finance team. I was always grateful to find what I loved so early on in my career.”

Quick Facts
He’s a regular Tony Stark: “I’m proud to say I finished my first full Ironman in Mont Tremblant, Canada, this past August.”
What you wouldn’t guess: He served as a Lieutenant in the Israeli Defense Forces, as a Paratroops Platoon Commander.
Behind the scenes: “My first job was on a backstage crew — it was interesting to see what went on when the curtain was down!”

Text by Cristina Zuazua; Photo: Antonio Eli

Lior Levy is a CPA at Lancaster & Reed; 50 West Mashta Dr., Ste. 6, Key Biscayne; 305.361.1014; Lancaster-CPAS.com.