Renee Tabben's financial services career goes back 20 years, beginning as an advisor with her own practice. She believes everyone—regardless of assets or experience—deserve honest, straightforward financial wellness advice.
A year after she joined Merrill Lynch, Bank of America joined forces with the company, creating a comprehensive platform serving the needs of individuals, companies and institutions. Today, Renee offers her West Michigan neighbors the power of a global company through her work as Market Executive, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, and Market President for Bank of America.
How did you discover West Michigan Woman?
I remember it clearly! Shortly after moving to GR, I was reading local media to get acclimated. When I opened West Michigan Woman magazine, I felt as though I was talking with an old friend! Meredith Bronk was on the cover ... and everything in that issue, from advertising to content, spoke to me and made me feel welcome.
How do changes Merrill Lynch and Bank of America recently faced apply to our community?
The scale and scope of economic growth in West Michigan is impressive. With it comes many new challenges. Our experience—specifically in our market—has been similar to that of our community. We recently consolidated our teams in one building, in the heart of downtown GR. As we continue hiring and growing the team, learning new technology and coordinating across multiple teams can be a learning curve. Our common purpose in serving our community is our "true north" and keeps us moving in the right direction. Another similarity is philanthropic mindset. The community's goodwill is very important to us. I guide our efforts through our employee volunteer programs and philanthropic support for organizations that make a positive impact here in West Michigan.
Fortune magazine just recognized us as one of the 2018 Best Workplaces for Giving Back!
How should someone select a financial advisor?
Approach this as you would any other important long-term relationship. Does the advisor have a deep understanding of your life priorities before recommending solutions? Are you confident the tailored strategy aligns with what you want to achieve? Have they outlined their service model to reflect your significance, or will you be "one of the many"? Good advice begins with good communication. Find the advisor you feel comfortable sharing your future with.
What should people know about Merrill Lynch and Bank of America?
There are over 200 associates at Bank of America in West Michigan, ready to serve you. Each morning, we come to work with the same purpose: to help make financial lives better through the power of connection. Further, there's an abundance of highly qualified female financial advisors in our West Michigan Merrill Lynch offices. Each demonstrates understanding of women's financial needs and the purpose of your wealth and how to achieve it.
What do you enjoy most about West Michigan?
The people. What an incredibly creative, kind, generous community! I have been so impressed with the quality of life my family and I have been able to enjoy since moving from Chicago. With the arts, culture, food, convenience and Midwestern values, I am so proud to call West Michigan home.
Written by Amy L Charles, Editorial Director for West Michigan Woman.
