PAUL PIGNONE, CFP^®

I started my own firm, Boston Retirement Advisors, in 1982. It was an interesting time, when I first started in this field. Financial planning, as a discipline, was really young. Most financial advisors were compensated through sales commissions. Fee-only planning was almost unheard of, and those who knew of it were loath to give up their commissions to “do right” by the client.

I’ve always done things a little differently. So when I launched Boston Retirement Advisors, I decided to forego commissions-based compensation. I actively disregarded sales quotas demanded by broker dealers, and chose to forgo the vacations and other gimmicks used to reward advisors for promoting their products. I believe those types of compensation arrangements interfere with honest, trusting advisor-client relationships.

I am a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®), and a member of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), the primary professional organization for financial planners who operate on a “fee-only” basis. NAPFA has received the support of the AARP, the Consumer Federation of America, and several state regulators for its efforts on disclosure issues.

My decision to go “fee-only” from the start truly paid off for me. It wasn’t about the money, it was about working with a clear conscience, and being able to provide objective, untainted advice. Over the years, the firm grew – mostly by referral, as people sought financial advisors who were compensated using a fee-only model. I added to that a warm, welcoming environment that showed we really care (which we do!). It was a recipe for doing well by doing good. What a blessing. I’m so proud of the decades-long relationships we have cultivated, and the continuous stream of clients we are fortunate to help year-in and year-out.

In 2015, after an extensive four-year search, I identified Beck Bode as a suitable partner for the business continuation strategy for my firm. While I remain engaged and active in Boston Retirement Advisors, I wanted to ensure the continuity of the practice for future generations, and to provide clients with enhanced resources, broader expertise and a bigger support team. Jim and Ben are the perfect partners. Again, what a blessing to have found such good, competent, family-oriented partners who sincerely care for our clients. It gives me great comfort and pleasure to know that our firm is in the best of hands.

CREDENTIALS AND OTHER INTERESTING FACTS

• Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and indulging in competitive streaks on the tennis court.
• I split my time between homes and offices in New Hampshire and Florida
• I have earned degrees in business and education
• I have three children, four grandchildren, and four step-grandchildren