Superior Planning and Competitor Analysis
Company Overview
Superior Planning is a premier multi-family office headquartered at 10085 Carroll Canyon Road, Suite 150, San Diego, CA 92131. Established in 1982, the firm has made its mark by providing comprehensive family wealth management services specifically for middle-class millionaire families. Clients can reach them at (858) 546-1046. Superior Planning prides itself on delivering personalized service, guiding clients through complex financial scenarios with confidence and ease.
Services Offered
Superior Planning's services are designed to cater to various facets of financial planning and advisory needs:
- Wealth Management: The firm offers structured financial programs aimed at protecting and enhancing family wealth.
- Tax Planning & Estate Planning: Superior Planning is adept at managing estate complexities and liabilities, ensuring the security of family legacies.
- Major Life Transitions: They provide expert financial advice during key life events, such as business sales, career exits, and liquidity events.
Team Overview
The firm boasts a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to delivering top-tier financial guidance:
- James F. Thomas, Jr. (Buddy), CFP®, AEP: Founder and Chief Planning Officer, responsible for the strategic vision and leadership of the firm.
- Susan Ferrari, CPA, CFE: Executive Director with a knack for resolving organizational challenges.
- Joe Bauers, AIF®: Managing Partner with extensive experience in professional and community organizations.
- John Sedberry: Managing Partner with a strong background in wealth management and financial planning.
- Jim Gates: Managing Partner offering strategic and developmental insights.
- Elizabeth (Liz) Thomas: Administration Office Vice President, streamlining internal operations and business processes.
Strategic Alliances
Superior Planning collaborates with entities like PlanMember Securities Corporation and Carmel Capital Partners, LLC. These alliances enable the provision of securities and registered investment advice while ensuring that Superior Planning remains independently driven to offer personalized client services. For more insights or partnership opportunities, visit [superplan.com](https://superplan.com).
Competitor Profiling
Top Competitors
1. Beacon Financial Partners
- Location: Cleveland, Ohio
- Services: Comprehensive financial planning and wealth management
- Key Personnel: Gregory Randall (Managing Partner), Deborah George (Chief Operations Officer)
2. Salient Wealth Planning Group
- Location: San Diego, California
- Services: Personalized, strategic financial planning
- Key Personnel: Philip E. Smith, CFP®, Allison Wooton, CRPC™
3. Sterling Total Wealth Solutions
- Location: The Woodlands, Texas
- Services: Tailored financial advisory with a focus on retirement and wealth management
- Key Personnel: Michael Goodwin, CPA, Gordon Menard, CFP®
4. Alliance Wealth Advisors
- Location: Centerville, Utah
- Services: Empowering clients with informed financial decisions
- Key Personnel: Paul A. Coles (CEO), Scott G. Hoxer (CIO)
5. Acorns
- Services: Micro-investing platform with a focus on round-up investments
- Target Market: Younger consumers entering the investment landscape
- Notable Backers: PayPal, BlackRock
Market Position
Superior Planning operates in a competitive market landscape with several established players delivering diverse financial management solutions. The firm differentiates itself from competitors through family office services aimed at high-net-worth clientele, thus offering a distinct and personalized alternative to more generic wealth management services.
Strategic Insights
To sustain its competitive edge, Superior Planning should continue to emphasize its extensive coordination services and bespoke planning capabilities. Maintaining an objective, partner-driven approach will appeal to clients seeking comprehensive financial guidance beyond mere transactional advice. Additionally, staying aware of key competitors, such as Beacon Financial Partners and Salient Wealth Planning Group, can bolster Superior Planning’s relational strengths and reinforce its unique market positioning.
