Overview
Watermark Advisory Group is a distinguished consulting firm situated in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The company excels in financial advisory services and asset-based lending (ABL) field exams, serving a diverse client base that includes banks and commercial lenders. Their comprehensive service offerings encompass credit and risk analysis, operational analysis, and strategic consulting services. Watermark aims to assist clients in achieving financial independence while ensuring that their financial strategies align with personal values and priorities.
Mission and Vision
Watermark Advisory Group's mission is centered around helping clients achieve financial independence by making intentional financial decisions. This is achieved by aligning clients' financial strategies with their personal values and priorities, thereby fostering long-term financial well-being.
Leadership
Zac Woodward, AIF®, presides as the President of Watermark Advisory Group. He has been with the company since 2012 and ascended to the presidential role in 2023. Zac is integral to the firm's operations, including Watermark Investment Services, carrying forward the legacy of John J. Woodward, who founded Watermark Investment Services in 2004.
Services
Watermark Advisory Group offers a robust suite of services including:
- ABL Field Examination: Comprehensive evaluation services to gauge the viability and risk associated with asset-based loans.
- Underwriting and Portfolio Management: Risk assessment and portfolio management assistance for financial institutions.
- Strategic Consulting: Insights and methodologies to enhance operational efficiencies and risk management.
Recent Developments
Watermark Advisors recently forecasted a 'soft landing' for the U.S. economy in early 2024, buoyed by a stronger-than-anticipated performance in Q4 of 2023. The firm remains active in significant financial transactions, particularly in M&A advisories aligned with market trends.
Competence
Watermark Advisory Group's commitment to maintaining its leadership stance in financial advising is evident through its adaptive service offerings and proactive client engagement practices.
Contact Information
- Website: [Watermark Advisory Group](https://www.investwithwatermark.com/)
- LinkedIn: [Watermark Advisory Group LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/watermark-advisory-group-llc)
- Zac Woodward's LinkedIn: [LinkedIn Profile](https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacwoodward)
Competitive Landscape
The competitive landscape for Watermark Advisory Group is framed by several prominent firms offering similar financial services.
Competitors
1. Cascade Partners
- Services: Cascade Partners is an investment banking and private investment firm, providing Sell Side M&A Advisory, Turnaround & Restructuring Advisory, Buy Side M&A Advisory, and Financing & Recapitalizations services.
- Unique Proposition: They emphasize their role as a partner in creating long-term value for clients through strategic and transaction services.
- Location: Headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, with additional offices in Grand Rapids and Cleveland.
2. BAZ Consulting
- Services: An economic advisory and management firm headquartered in Lahore, Pakistan, focusing on financial sector development in emerging markets, particularly in Management Consulting, Financial Advisory, and Market Research.
- Unique Proposition: They focus on advancing the private sector, with a special emphasis on financial inclusion and aid to MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises).
3. BlueWater Partners
- Services: Specializes in investment banking and restructuring/performance improvement for mid-market manufacturing and distribution firms.
- Recent Developments: Acquisition by Cascade Partners, which augments BlueWater's capabilities in financing and advisory services, enhancing Cascade's overall market positioning.
This detailed profiling of Watermark Advisory Group and its competitors provides a comprehensive view of the firm’s positioning against strong market players. The key to successfully navigating this competitive environment lies in leveraging Watermark's personalized service approach and exploring potential strategic alliances or service expansion.
