Alex Black

I found my way into wealth management and financial planning by happenstance.

Upon graduating from college, the idea of investments held an allure I could not pass up. I ran across a job posting for a position as a paraplanner with a wealth management firm. Knowing absolutely nothing about the industry, I took the leap into the role believing I would be learning all about investing. In retrospect, what I gained was far more valuable. I truly learned what it meant to develop and implement a comprehensive financial plan for individuals. What I failed to realize at the time, which has become more clear through the years, is that investing without a plan is like driving without a map. My mentor always used to say, “You can’t build a house without a blue print”, and that is really what a financial plan provides, the blue print to your financial life. Prior to joining Integris, I gained significant experience developing and implementing financial plans for small to medium-size business owners, as well as executives with varying forms of compensation. I found the work to be extremely gratifying, as I was able to provide peace of mind to individuals who were going through some of life’s largest transitions. Whether it be business succession, retirement, or generational planning, being able to provide comfort and lower anxiety levels via a financial plan has been truly rewarding, and something I could have never received by simply learning how to invest. As my career developed in beautiful Sonoma County, I found myself missing life near the ocean. The decision was not easy, but I made the choice to come back to my roots in the Santa Cruz/Monterey area. While searching for firms that focused on financial planning, I came across Integris Wealth Management. The culture, people, and most importantly the work they do for clients seemed like an opportunity I could not pass up. Integris’ holistic view into individuals’ financial lives is something that was hugely important in my decision to join the team, and I haven’t looked back since. I hold the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designation and received a B.S. in Business Administration concentrating in Finance, as well as a B.A. in Economics from Sonoma State University. When I am not at work, I like to be outdoors. You can find me in the water, playing golf, basketball, or fetch (with my dog) and enjoying snow sports when they’re available.