Kevin Bernzott
Chairman & CEO - Portfolio Manager / Analyst
Mr. Bernzott founded the firm in 1994. Previously CEO of
McGaelic Group, a multi-generational family investment
office, he focused on real estate development and asset
management. He is a director of Western Commercial Bank
and the Ventura County Sheriff's Foundation. Mr.
Bernzott earned a doctorate in law from the University
of West Los Angeles.
Peter F. Banks
President & Chief Investment Officer -
Portfolio Manager / Analyst
Mr. Banks joined the firm
in 1997. Previously CFO of a private investment firm and
a bank holding company, he was responsible for
investment analysis and portfolio management, asset
allocation strategies, and tax and estate planning. He
was formerly an audit manager with KPMG Peat Marwick.
Mr. Banks obtained a BBA in finance from Texas A&M
University. He is a Certified Public Accountant and
speaks fluent Spanish.
Scott T. Larson, CFA
Vice President – Analyst
Mr. Larson joined the firm in 2007. Previously a
principal with Grayhawk Venture Partners, a private
venture capital firm, he was responsible for investment
due diligence, research and analysis. Mr. Larson earned
a BS in finance and a BA in psychology from Arizona
State University. He is a CFA charterholder.
Thomas A. Derse
Vice President - Portfolio Manager / Analyst
Mr. Derse joined the firm
in 2004. Previously president of Channel Islands Capital
Management, Inc. and a partner in an accounting firm, he
managed portfolios and assisted clients with tax,
estate, retirement, and business planning. Mr. Derse
obtained a BS in accounting from California State
University - Fresno and an MS in taxation from Golden
Gate University. He is a Level II Chartered Financial
Analyst Candidate and a Certified Public Accountant.
Hans T. Walsh
Vice President & Chief Operating Officer – Trader
Mr. Walsh joined the
firm in 2006. Previously a career US Navy SEAL
officer, he is a decorated combat veteran. Mr. Walsh
earned a BS in biology from Marquette University and
an MA in national security and strategic studies
from the Naval War College and speaks fluent
Spanish.
The investment team profiled
here is augmented by additional support and client
service professionals.