Kim Haws Falasco
Managing Director, Branch Manager

Why did you join the financial services industry?

I arrived in wealth management in a very unusual way. I was going to school for fashion (which I still love) because in high school I loved clothes. In the meantime, I was looking for a part-time job. My boyfriend’s sister worked for Dean Witter Reynolds as a wire operator, and she told me they were looking for a part-time temp employee. I knew nothing of what they did, but I interviewed and got the job. That job changed my life!

I changed my major to personal finance. After a year or so, I was offered a full-time job at Dean Witter Reynolds and worked on my degree at night. I was given so much opportunity. I had wonderful mentors (all men) who answered all my constant questions and helped me learn and grow. I took all my licenses, including my Series 8 Exam to get my manager’s license. I moved up the ranks to assistant branch manager, all while supporting the current branch manager with his clients.

Within six months of working at Dean Witter Reynolds, I had fallen in love with this business for three reasons:

1. I was always enamored with money and looked for ways to make it when I was a kid, from paper routes to babysitting.
2. It was fast-paced and ever-changing, and I found that fascinating.
3. I was able to help people and work with them to reach their goals.  

Why were you looking to leave your old firm?

 After Dean Witter was acquired by Morgan Stanley, I moved with a group to open a Legg Mason office in 2002. In 2007, Legg Mason was bought by Citibank/Smith Barney. When the financial crisis hit in 2008, clients were scared to work with Citibank. So, I talked to every firm on the street. I knew each time I wanted a mid-size firm, one with the ability to invest in technology, but one small enough where associates know each other and care about the outcomes.  A place where clients come first – always. Luckily, I was able to join Baird on January 30, 2009.

Why have you stayed with Baird over the years?

I came running for my life to Baird, and I’ve had huge success bringing clients over. I love it here! Baird is a privately held firm owned by its employees and always puts the clients first. We have access to upper management, and they listen. I have seen many things change because of suggestions from the field, and that would never happen where I was before. One of the best decisions of my life.

What is your career at Baird like today?

I focus my business on helping “Suddenly Single” women take control of their money and helping families where both spouses want to be involved. I also manage the Akron branch. I still love helping people with their wealth planning, and I love helping other advisors be even more successful - all while having fun in the office!