Tessa Gruenloh

• Why did you join TFO Phoenix?

I saw an atmosphere where everyone wants each other to succeed. The support that coworkers give each other here amazes me. I have never been surrounded with such great people that truly care about the work they do and the clients that they serve.

• What path led you to wealth management?

It is more like wealth management found me. I think it is important for people to have a plan for their future and give them the opportunity to use their money how they want to but also give them a path to follow to get where they would like to be.

• What most excites you about your work? 

What excites me most is that the work I do is always changing. I’m not stuck doing the same repetitive thing, I get the opportunity to branch out and get to see different aspects of the company and see how they connect.

• Education and accreditations

B.A. in Sports Business – Arizona State University

• What do you enjoy most about your role at TFO Phoenix? 

My role is not clearly defined, but I am excited to work in different areas of the company and to be a part of wherever I am needed and can be utilized.

• What personal accomplishments are you most proud of? 

I think a personal accomplishment I am most proud of is that I graduated from ASU in 3 years. I did not enter college with any existing college credits, but I decided that I wanted to graduate early, and I figured out what I needed to do to get there.

•  Why should families connect wealth and purpose? 

I don’t believe that money can buy true happiness. I do believe that if you have a purpose and think about the things you are passionate about, you can create a path for your wealth to help you achieve your goals.

• What are some of your biggest influences?

My biggest influence is my mom. She has given me nonstop support and encouragement my entire life. She started her own very successful business when I was young to be able to be a part of everything my brothers and I did. She is not only my biggest influence in my professional career, but also in my everyday life.

• What do you like to do outside of work? What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend? 

Outside of work I enjoy hanging out with my friends, my dog Willow and spending time with my family. I enjoy reading, watching St. Louis sports, and working out. My ideal way to spend a weekend is to be outside and enjoying our Arizona weather at any chance I can get.

• What are the most important lessons you’ve learned in life? 

Never take life too seriously. Mistakes are going to be made and life is not always going to go the way you want it to. So just smile, laugh it off, and move on.