Post Topic: Family Office

Oct 16th

How Family Governance Protects Generational Wealth

Clear communication and structure are essential for high-net-worth families to protect their assets.

Even the best players need a coach—and a playbook. For ultra-high-net-worth families, that playbook, called family governance, is the key to successfully stewarding wealth and family businesses from one generation to the next.

Of course, each family is unique, so there are no set plays. But advisors at a multi-family office have the coach’s advantage of seeing the entire playing field, observing interactions, knowing which players to call in for different situations, and enlisting trusted experts to keep everyone in top form and build a strong team culture. 

To create strong, functional family governance, it’s vital to take four key steps (in this order, since subsequent steps build on the previous ones): 

Step 1) Establish a shared vision and mission.

Some families already have a mission statement for their business, but they've never articulated a personal mission from a family standpoint. Creating shared objectives is crucial to ensure that all family members are aligned, and it’s often helpful to have an unbiased advisor who individual family members can speak to in private. 

Step 2) Create a family governance structure.

Once shared values and goals have been identified, families can start to create a more formalized structure to guide future decision-making. This may include a family council or board of directors as well as policies, procedures, and practices for successful communications. It could even take the form of a family constitution.

Step 3) Develop a family education program.

A customized financial literacy program can bring the next generation or new family members (such as spouses) into the fold and help them take an active role in wealth management discussions. Depending on what level is needed, advisors can provide tailored lessons to cover everything from managing credit card debt to hiring guidelines for those working in the family business. 

Step 4) Set up your family office.

If your wealth is causing infighting or confusion, or your business is strained by family dynamics, it’s probably time to offload personal matters to a family office. Some ultra-high-net-worth individuals create their own single-family, brick-and-mortar office with staff and resources they personally oversee. Others choose a multi-family office solution that provides comprehensive services to multiple clients at a time. The latter offers a much more economical structure and has the advantage of more resources and a broader perspective. 

Working with Advisors to Create Structure: A Case Study For Why It Matters

Not long ago, a new client at Whittier Trust asked us to manage the investment of $32 million in earnings from their family manufacturing business. Soon after, they requested help with their personal finances as well. As part of that process, our team was doing an estate plan review and identified a major issue. With nine family members involved in the family business, significant shares of the company would change hands if anyone died—enough to potentially destroy the business. Yet each of them had created their own separate estate plans without considering these ramifications.

We discovered that some of the family members weren’t even on speaking terms, so repairing those dynamics had to be the first priority. After selecting one of our consultants to mediate, each family member got to speak their mind and share their individual concerns. In the meantime, the Whittier team was working behind the scenes with the estate planning attorneys. We eventually got all family members, attorneys, and consultants to the table to discuss business succession, which seemed like a small miracle.

Three generations were working in the family business and had established a rule that no one could own shares unless they worked there. One of the brothers had four children, none of whom worked for the family business, so none of his ownership could be passed down when he died; it would have to be bought back by the company. Another sister had no kids and planned to donate her shares to charity through the family foundation. But because of the buy/sell agreements, the company would have to buy those shares. 

Under the current structure, we showed them that there wouldn’t be enough cash on the balance sheet to buy all the shares within their natural lifespans. The company couldn't survive. It was a jaw-dropping moment for them to realize their structure was not sustainable. 

In the end, they all made a decision to move forward collectively as a family unit and align their estate plans. The business is no longer in danger from the necessity of buybacks and can continue to thrive. And we got word later that all three generations went on a family ski trip together, something they hadn’t done in 15 years. 

This is why, putting on our coaches’ hats, we remind clients that each of the four steps is essential: creating a shared mission, structure, education plan, and family office. Since 1989, Whittier Trust has used this model to help wealth generators pass down their assets and businesses with confidence to their children and grandchildren. Establishing solid family governance practices takes time and patience, but once the standards are developed, they can last for generations.

Featured in Family Business Magazine.

Written by Brian Bissell, Senior Vice President and Client Advisor at Whittier Trust. Brian is based out of the Newport Beach Office where he provides a full range of wealth management, family office, philanthropic, real estate, and trust services.

To learn more about how a multi-family office can help steward your family's wealth, start a conversation with a Whittier Trust advisor today by visiting our contact page. 

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

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Oct 8th

Plan to Give

Charitable giving strategies in the wake of the “One Big Beautiful Bill.”

The One Big Beautiful Bill (“OBBB”) significantly changed the tax deductibility of charitable contributions in 2026 and onward by introducing two additional limitations for filers who itemize their deductions.

The first limitation sets a 0.5% adjusted gross income (“AGI”) floor on deductible contributions. For example, if a filer's 2026 AGI is $500,000, the first 0.5%, or $2,500, of charitable contributions will be disallowed. In certain circumstances, the disallowed amount may be eligible to be carried forward and applied to future tax years.

The second limitation decreases the tax benefit of all itemized deductions for filers in the highest marginal tax bracket of 37%, including charitable contributions, as adjusted by the first limitation described above. In 2026, married filing joint filers reach this top tax bracket with $768,700 of taxable income.

This second and more significant limitation curtails the tax benefit of deductions for filers in the 37% bracket to 35%. Filers who donate an amount equal to their highest taxed income may unpleasantly discover they still owe residual tax. In addition, this limitation creates a permanent disallowance and provides no mechanism for carryforwards to future tax years.

In the wake of the OBBB, planning strategies for charitable giving have become especially important in year-end planning. Here, we outline strategies and considerations that you should evaluate as you aim to enhance your philanthropic impact.

Planning Strategies to Consider

  1. Accelerate giving into 2025: By making larger charitable contributions in 2025, you might be able to maximize the full value of deductions before the OBBB takes effect.
  2. Combine several years of giving: Bunching donations into one year can help you clear the new deduction thresholds and maximize tax benefits.
  3. Structure income carefully: Planning the timing of income and deductions can help you avoid the highest tax brackets in years when you make significant charitable gifts.
  4. Use Donor-Advised-Funds ("DAFs"): Establishing or contributing to a DAF may allow you to lock in larger tax deductions in 2025 while maintaining flexibility to recommend grants to charities in future years. Whittier Trust offers these services if you need help.
  5. Give more strategically: Consider donating appreciated stock or exploring leveraged giving strategies that boost the total impact of your donations.
  6. Consider giving from a trust: Certain trust structures can offer tax benefits by filing separate tax returns, which may help avoid some of the new limitations on charitable deductions introduced by the OBBB.
  7. Private foundations: If you already have a private foundation, special annual elections might let you increase the amount of your tax-deductible contributions.
  8. Supporting your private colleges and universities early: If you are a donor to these institutions, accelerating gifts in 2025 might help them avoid significantly higher excise taxes on their endowment investment income. Reach out to these institutions to confirm if the OBBB changes affect them.

When Acceleration May Not Be Best

Accelerating your giving isn’t always the most tax-efficient move. Consider:

  1. Unused prior deductions: If you already have unused charitable deductions from prior years, making large gifts now could cause older deductions to expire.
  2. Your effective tax rate: Waiting to make charitable gifts until a year when your effective (not marginal) tax rate is higher may yield better savings, despite the new OBBB limitations.
  3. Planning with your longevity in mind: Unused contributions may expire upon your or your spouse’s passing, so consider synchronizing your giving with your income to ensure no tax-deductible contribution goes wasted.
  4. Making giving an integral part of administering your estate: The OBBB limitations generally do not apply to charitable giving done when administering your taxable estate. Consider developing a more holistic plan for giving after you are gone.

The Big Picture

Every client’s situation is unique. Your income, estate plan, charitable goals, and timing all influence the best strategy, whether that means maximizing tax efficiency or fulfilling your philanthropic vision, regardless of law changes.

Why You Should Plan Early

Charitable planning works best when it’s done early.  This allows enough time for you and your advisors to model different scenarios, make decisions, and implement them smoothly—without the stress of year-end deadlines. Starting early helps ensure your gifts are processed and counted for the tax year without last-minute complications.

Next Steps

If charitable giving is a priority for you in 2025, let’s start the conversation now. Whittier Trust can help develop a plan that balances your philanthropic goals with the upcoming changes in the tax law.

Start a conversation with a Whittier Trust advisor today by visiting our contact page.

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

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Sep 30th

The Wealth Equation: Balancing Money and Stress

Don’t let assets be a liability that strains your family.

Ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families have no shortage of options when it comes to who manages their investments. They can engage with a private bank, hire a financial advisor, enlist a multi-family office, or start their own single-family office with dedicated staff. The challenge is finding a lifestyle-compatible solution that optimizes not only immediate returns but also future benefits for generations to come.

“You want a partner that turns wealth into an asset instead of a liability,” says Jay Karpen, a Vice President and Portfolio Manager with Whittier Trust. “That means managing wealth in a way that brings family together rather than driving it apart, that brings peace of mind rather than stress, and that enhances your values rather than detracting from them.” At Whittier Trust, our multi-family office approach is designed to create a meaningful difference in all aspects of your wealth, family, and legacy, paving the path for whatever endeavors you, your children, or grandchildren choose to pursue.

The Multi-Family Office Model

Multi-family offices employ professionals with expertise in investments, philanthropy, administrative services, and, in some instances, trusts and estates. These firms are set up to support the family and subsequent generations, helping preserve multi-generational wealth and family values. 

“You have to be careful, though,” Karpen advises, “because many multi-family offices are simply financial advisors without the resources or experience to provide high-touch service or the ability to handle complex estates and taxes. They might miss important tax-saving opportunities through thoughtful estate planning or the advantages of asset location, making sure the right types of assets are in the correct accounts.”

Whittier Trust is the best of all worlds: a multi-family office that offers a single-family office experience with the resources of a large private bank or financial advisor as well as trust and estate services. Each client has their own team, including a portfolio manager, investment analyst, client advisor associate, and a client advisor, who, on average, has only 30 client relationships. “At competitors’ offices, the client advisors are typically juggling hundreds of clients,” Karpen says. “You’re not going to get a high-end experience with a ratio like that.”  

The Whittier team ensures each client receives a customized solution to meet their unique circumstances, as well as the time and attention they deserve so that their wealth never becomes a burden. “A client recently asked us to evaluate a private technology investment opportunity,” Karpen says. “My team collaborated with our technology analysts, private market experts, and industry professionals in our network to underwrite the company and consider how this venture would fit within the goals and objectives of the client's portfolio. We’ve all been pleased with the outcome, which is aligned with the client’s portfolio goals.” 

Whittier’s ideal size is a strategic advantage, allowing us to pool resources and best practices across the hundreds of families we work with, while maintaining close personal relationships with them. “We can, for example, leverage the firm's relationships to identify attractive investment opportunities or obtain institutional lending rates for loans,” Karpen explains. “Frequently, we work with longstanding lenders to structure a deal for a client when everyone else is either too expensive or too restrictive.”

The Single-Family Office Alternative

UHNW families often choose to open their own single-family office because it offers prestige, control, and customization. But setting up a custom office can be a double-edged sword, introducing significant complexity and expense. The family must lease office space and manage staff, yet may still need to outsource certain functions beyond the scope of the in-house employees. It’s an excellent solution for anyone who enjoys being at the center of a hub of activity, with near-daily decision-making, but not for someone looking to step back from work and stress.

The Private Bank Option

Partnering with a private bank alleviates any worries about hiring your own financial advisors and service providers, and banks can also sometimes help with specific issues such as taxes and real estate. Unfortunately, private banks are often conflicted, pitching proprietary products as solutions, which typically carry embedded fees and unnecessary complications. Additionally, since they are a bank, they are subject to strict bank regulations and corporate objectives that might result in a degradation of service (e.g., public banks trying to meet earnings) and are susceptible to bank runs, as we saw with First Republic Bank and Silicon Valley Bank in 2023.

A multi-family office combines the advantages of a single-family office and a private bank or financial advisor, keeping the control in the client’s hands without the day-to-day responsibilities that impede their true passions, such as travel, philanthropy, and family. Whittier Trust, the preeminent West Coast multi-family office, delivers best-in-class services for UHNW families who are looking for that ideal balance for today, tomorrow, and beyond.

If you’re ready to explore Whittier Trust’s family office services, start a conversation with a Whittier Trust advisor today by visiting our contact page.

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

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Sep 23rd

Whittier Trust Ranked Among Washington’s Best Places to Work

Whittier Trust's Seattle office honored for exceptional workplace culture while celebrating 60 years in the region and 25 years serving local clients.

Whittier Trust’s Seattle office has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Washington in 2025 by the Puget Sound Business Journal. This is a testament to the wealth management firm's strong culture of client service, innovation, and collaboration.

"Being recognized again as one of Washington's Best Places to Work is a testament to the dedication of our people," said David Dahl, President and CEO of Whittier Trust. "Our culture is one of our greatest strengths, and the key to our success is our employees. We know that it is our culture that allows us to consistently exceed the goals and objectives that our clients and their families expect. This honor reinforces our core belief of putting people first, both in our firm and in the communities we serve."

For 25 years, Whittier Trust's Seattle office has served clients in the Pacific Northwest, building on the firm's 60-year legacy in the region. Whittier Trust is deeply committed to community engagement, supporting local institutions and philanthropic initiatives.

"Our team is proud to continue Whittier Trust's long-standing presence in the Pacific Northwest," said Nick Momyer, Senior Vice President, Senior Portfolio Manager, and Northwest Regional Manager. "We see ourselves not just as wealth advisors, but as active partners in strengthening the families we serve and in strengthening our community. That sense of purpose is what makes our workplace so special."

As Whittier Trust celebrates its sixth decade in the Pacific Northwest, the multi-family office remains dedicated to a legacy of providing trusted, personalized wealth management and family office services, all while honoring a commitment to the communities Whittier Trust calls home.

If you're interested in a career at one of the top workplaces in Seattle, visit our Careers Page to learn more and find a position that may fit you.

For more information about Whittier Trust's wealth management and family office services, start a conversation with a Whittier Trust advisor today by visiting our contact page.

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

Contact Us
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Sep 18th

Whittier Trust Promotes Jessica Guzman and William Dodds to Vice President

Whittier Trust Celebrates Rising Leaders Jessica Guzman and William Dodds, Highlighting the Firm’s Commitment to Developing Next-Generation Talent.

Whittier Trust, the oldest multifamily office headquartered on the West Coast, proudly announces the promotions of Jessica Guzman and William G. Dodds to the roles of Vice President in the firm’s Newport Beach office and Seattle office, respectively. Both are recognized for their dedication to delivering comprehensive wealth management solutions and building lasting relationships with clients and their trusted advisors.

“Will and Jessica exemplify the kind of leadership, professionalism, and client focus that define Whittier Trust,” said David Dahl, President and CEO of Whittier Trust. “These promotions recognize their contributions and the meaningful impact they make every day for the families we serve. Our mission is to serve families for generations, and developing professionals who combine expertise with genuine care is key to achieving that mission.”

Jessica Guzman

Jessica Guzman has been with the Newport Beach office for over three years. As Vice President, she will partner with high-net-worth individuals and families to accumulate, manage, and preserve wealth across generations, with expertise in trust administration, family office services, and comprehensive financial planning. 

“Jessica’s technical knowledge, client-centered approach, and dedication to excellence make her a standout advisor,” said Greg Custer, Executive Vice President and Orange County Administration Manager. “Her promotion highlights the difference that committed professionals can make for families seeking long-term wealth management.”

Jessica holds the Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) and Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA) designations and is pursuing her MBA at UCLA Anderson School of Management.

William Dodds

Will Dodds began his career with the firm’s Seattle office as an intern in 2018. As Vice President, he provides guidance, strategy, and solutions across investment management, trust, philanthropy, and family office services. 

Nick Momyer, Senior Vice President and Northwest Regional Manager, said about William: “It’s been exciting to see William’s journey from intern to this leadership position. William backs up a genuine commitment to his clients with a real commitment to building relationships with their families and advisors. His promotion reflects the value he brings to families in the region and across Whittier Trust’s services.”

In addition to his professional responsibilities, William is pursuing his MBA at the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business and serves as Seattle Chapter Lead for The Scooty Fund, a nonprofit promoting mental health awareness among young adults.

These promotions demonstrate Whittier Trust’s focus on developing talented advisors who deliver personalized solutions, foster enduring relationships, and uphold the firm’s long-standing tradition of service and trust across generations.

For more information about Whittier Trust, start a conversation with an advisor today by visiting our contact page.

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

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Sep 16th

Whittier Trust Promotes Derek Hamblet to Senior Vice President in Reno Office

Reinforcing Whittier Trust’s Culture of Excellence and Longstanding Commitment to Leadership Rooted in Client Service.

The Whittier Trust Company of Nevada is proud to announce the promotion of Derek S. Hamblet to Senior Vice President and Client Advisor in the wealth management firm’s Reno office. This advancement reflects both Derek’s nearly two decades of experience and the firm’s deepening dedication to serving Nevada families, who benefit from the state’s advantageous trust laws and robust fiduciary framework.

As Senior Vice President and Client Advisor, Derek will continue guiding high-net-worth families, individuals, and tax-exempt entities as they navigate complex financial decisions while building multi-generational strategies designed to grow and protect wealth. With Nevada’s favorable trust environment, Derek works closely with clients, their families, and their advisors to ensure they maximize the unique benefits available to them in the state.

“Derek’s journey at Whittier Trust reflects steady growth and a consistent commitment to clients,” said David Dahl, President and CEO of Whittier Trust. “From his early work as an analyst to his leadership today as a trusted advisor, he has continually built on his expertise and deepened his relationships with families. This promotion to Senior Vice President recognizes the impact he has made and the value he will continue to bring to our Nevada clients.”

Derek began his Whittier Trust career as an Investment Analyst, where he focused on equity research in telecommunications and healthcare and supported the management of accounts for families and foundations. Over the years, he transitioned into advisory work, where his ability to connect with clients and tailor solutions earned him recognition and trust across generations.

A graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, Derek holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance with an emphasis in Economics and Accounting, as well as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). He has continued to sharpen his expertise through advanced designations, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA), and Honors Graduate of Cannon Trust School. He also remains engaged with the community as a member of the University of Nevada, Reno Foundation Planned Giving Advisory Council.

For more information about Whittier Trust, start a conversation with an advisor today by visiting our contact page.

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

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Sep 2nd

Whittier Trust Welcomes Vikram Ganu as Senior Vice President and Director of Tax

Vikram Ganu underscores Whittier Trust’s commitment to tax sensitivity as a cornerstone of the firm’s wealth management philosophy.

Whittier Trust is pleased to announce the addition of Vikram Ganu as Senior Vice President and Director of Tax, based in the firm’s Menlo Park office. Vikram will lead Whittier Trust’s tax practice, advising high-net-worth individuals and multi-generational family businesses on complex income and estate tax planning strategies.

In his role, Vikram will oversee Whittier Trust’s tax compliance and tax advisory functions. He will also collaborate closely with client advisors, portfolio managers, and other professionals within the firm to deliver integrated, tax-sensitive solutions that help clients preserve and transfer wealth across generations.

Vikram Ganu brings more than 16 years of experience in public accounting, including more than a decade with Big Four accounting firms in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. His background encompasses tax advisory and compliance services for multi-generational, family-owned businesses, buy and sell side tax due diligence, and specialized work with families across various industries, including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and the media and entertainment sectors.

“Tax efficiency is not an afterthought at Whittier Trust — it’s core to our wealth management philosophy,” said Liam McGuinness, CFO of Whittier Trust. “Vikram’s technical depth and client-focused approach allow us to elevate this commitment, ensuring that families benefit from tax strategies that are both sophisticated and practical.”

Known for his approachable style, Vikram is passionate about demystifying tax planning. He places an emphasis on education and clarity, ensuring that clients not only minimize their tax exposure but also gain a meaningful understanding of the tax landscape and the constant rule changes that define it.

Vikram earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of California, Los Angeles, and his MBA from the University of California, Irvine. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in California.

For more information about Whittier Trust, start a conversation with an advisor today by visiting our contact page.

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

Contact Us
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Aug 28th

Beyond Basic Security

Cyber criminals may be targeting you—here are six ways to fight back.

In today's interconnected world, protecting your digital information is vital. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so staying informed and proactive is the best defense. At Whittier Trust, we take cybersecurity seriously, and we aim to help you maintain your online security and safeguard your sensitive information.

Strengthen Your Passwords

Your passwords are the first line of defense against unauthorized access. It’s important to: 

  • Use Strong, Unique Passcodes: Create passwords that are at least 12-16 characters long, combining uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays, names, or common words.
  • Employ Unique Passwords for Each Account: Reusing passwords across multiple services is a significant risk. If one account is compromised, all others using the same password become vulnerable.
  • Utilize a Password Manager: A reputable password manager can securely store your complex, unique passwords and generate new ones for you. This eliminates the need to remember dozens of different combinations.
  • Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Whenever available, activate MFA (also known as two-factor authentication or 2FA). This provides an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (e.g., a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.
  • Change Your Password Frequently: Passwords should be changed at least quarterly, with email passwords updated even more frequently.

Practice Safer Online Browsing

In today’s digital landscape, safe browsing starts with simple habits. Always verify links before clicking and stop to double-check any unexpected prompts before entering your credentials.

  • Website Security: If your browser warns you that a site’s certificate is invalid, don’t ignore it. Those warnings mean the connection isn’t secure or the site may be fraudulent. If the site doesn’t use HTTPS, do not enter any sensitive information. It can easily be intercepted.
  • Sensitive Sites: Type the web address yourself for sensitive sites. Don’t trust links in emails or chats.
    Manually entering https://yourbank.com ensures you land on the real site, not a spoof.
  • Website Misspellings: Beware of URL misspellings. For instance, “examplle.com" isn’t the same as "example.com.” Attackers can register look-alike domains to trick you—always verify each character.
  • Carefully Inspect Web Links: Never click a link you weren’t expecting, and examine search results before clicking on links. Phishing sites often hide behind innocuous or legitimate looking links. 

Keep Software and Firmware Updated

Software updates often include critical security patches that fix vulnerabilities exploited by cybercriminals.

  • Operating System and Applications: Ensure your computer's operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) and all software applications (web browsers, office suites, antivirus programs) are set to update automatically or that you regularly check for and install updates.
  • Device Firmware: Many devices, from printers and smart TVs to network-attached storage (NAS) devices, have firmware, a type of embedded software that provides low-level control for the device’s operation. Check the manufacturer's website periodically for firmware updates and install them promptly. These updates often address security flaws.

Secure Your Router (Wi-Fi)

Your internet router is the gateway to your home or office network. Securing it is paramount, using strategies such as: 

  • Change Default Credentials: The first step after setting up a new router should be to change the default administrator username and password. These are often publicly known and easily exploited.
  • Update Router Firmware: Like other devices, routers receive firmware updates that improve performance and, more importantly, patch security vulnerabilities. Consult your router's manufacturer for instructions on how to check for and install updates.
  • Use Strong Wi-Fi Encryption: Ensure your Wi-Fi network uses WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Avoid older, less secure options like WEP.
  • Guest Network: Consider enabling a guest Wi-Fi network for visitors, keeping your main network separate and more secure.

Protect Against Malware and Spyware

Malware (malicious software) and spyware can compromise your system, steal data, or disrupt operations. It’s critical to make sure you: 

  • Install Reputable Antivirus/Anti-Malware Software: Use a trusted security solution and keep it updated. Regularly scan your devices for threats.
  • Be Wary of Suspicious Emails and Links: Phishing attempts are common. Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown senders. If something looks suspicious, even if it appears to be from a known contact, don’t engage. 
  • QR codes: Avoid scanning QR codes from unexpected or unfamiliar sources due to the risk of phishing and malware attacks. 
  • Download from Trusted Sources: Only download software and files from official and reputable websites. Avoid third-party download sites that may bundle unwanted or malicious programs.
  • Firewall: Ensure your operating system's firewall is enabled, or use a dedicated firewall solution, to control incoming and outgoing network traffic.

Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks (in cafes, airports, etc.) are often unencrypted and insecure, making your data vulnerable to interception.

  • Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Refrain from accessing banking, shopping, or other sensitive accounts when connected to public Wi-Fi.
  • Avoid Wi-Fi Networks Without Passwords: These networks pose significant security risks. Without a password, these networks lack encryption, making your data vulnerable to interception by malicious actors.
  • Your cell phone hotspot is considered more secure than public Wi-Fi.
  • Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, providing a secure tunnel even on unsecured networks.

Your Role in Cybersecurity

Whittier Trust occasionally hosts cybersecurity seminars in which we share knowledge and strategies for handling online threats. During these events, attendees have the opportunity to learn practical skills and gain insights related to the topics discussed in this letter. Stay tuned for future event announcements. 

While we implement robust security measures at Whittier Trust, your vigilance is a critical component of a strong overall security posture. As a companion to this article, please review this helpful checklist, designed to help keep you on a regular schedule of maintaining good cybersecurity hygiene. 

Remember, Whittier Trust will never ask for your personal or secure information via text message or email. If you get such a suspicious piece of communication, please reach out to your client advisor directly. Also, Whittier Trust does not transfer your cash without verbal or written confirmation. If you have any questions or require further assistance with your cybersecurity practices, please do not hesitate to contact us.

For more information about how Whittier Trust can protect you, your family, and your estate from cybercriminals, start a conversation with an advisor today by visiting our contact page.

CHECKLIST

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

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Aug 19th

Whittier Trust Earns Top-Five Ranking in the Orange County Business Journal’s 2025 Best Places to Work Awards

Whittier Trust’s Newport Beach Office Celebrates Fourth Consecutive Year Recognized as a Top 10 Workplace by the Orange County Business Journal.

Whittier Trust has been named the #5 Best Place to Work in Orange County by the Orange County Business Journal (OCBJ) for 2025, marking the firm’s fourth year inside the top 10 workplaces in Orange County.

The recognition was announced in the Orange County Business Journal’s 2025 Best Places to Work rankings, published on July 7, 2025. The honor underscores Whittier Trust’s commitment to cultivating a workplace culture that values collaboration, professional development, and community engagement.

“Our team in Newport Beach continues to set the standard for what it means to create an inspiring, supportive workplace,” said David Dahl, President and CEO of Whittier Trust. “Earning a top-five ranking this year is a reflection of their dedication, not only to each other, but also to the families and communities we serve. The heart of our success has always been our people.”

Whittier Trust’s Newport Beach office is deeply engaged in the local community, supporting organizations and causes that make a lasting impact across the region. In just this past year, the Newport Beach team attended the Let’s Be Frank About Cancer gala for City of Hope Orange County, volunteered at the Community Action Partnership of Orange County Food Bank, and sponsored the Festival of Children at South Coast Plaza. They also worked hands-on at Harvest Solutions Farm, which helps provide tens of thousands of pounds of fresh produce each week to those in need. This ongoing commitment to serving both clients and community is a hallmark of the firm’s culture and part of what makes Whittier Trust such a rewarding and people-driven place to work.

The Orange County Business Journal’s Best Places to Work program, in partnership with Workforce Research Group, identifies and honors top employers in Orange County based on a comprehensive two-part assessment. Twenty percent of the score is based on an evaluation of company policies, benefits, and culture; the remaining eighty percent comes directly from anonymous employee feedback.

Full rankings appear in the August 2025 issue of the Orange County Business Journal. To view the complete list, visit www.ocbj.com.

For more information on the Best Places to Work in Orange County program, visit www.bestplacestoworkorangecounty.com.

If you're interested in a career at one of the top workplaces in Orange County, visit our Career Page to learn more and find a position that may fit you.

For more information about Whittier Trust's wealth management and family office services, start a conversation with a Whittier Trust advisor today by visiting our contact page.

From Investments to Family Office to Trustee Services and more, we are your single-source solution.

Contact Us
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Aug 14th

Whittier Trust Recognized as the #6 Best Place to Work in Los Angeles

Whittier Trust Celebrates Fourth Consecutive Year on the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Top 100 Workplaces List.

Whittier Trust has once again been recognized as one of the best places to work in Los Angeles, this year climbing to 6th place among midsize companies on the Los Angeles Business Journal’s annual list. This marks the fourth consecutive year the company has been honored, showcasing its consistent commitment to a positive workplace culture.

The award was presented on August 7, 2025, at the 19th Annual Best Places to Work Awards, held at the historic Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. The recognition highlights Whittier Trust's dedication to creating an environment where employees can grow both personally and professionally. 

“As we rise into the top 10 this year, it’s clear that our culture is not just enduring, it’s excelling,” said David Dahl, CEO & President of Whittier Trust. “Being named one of the very best workplaces in this incredible city for four consecutive years speaks to the dedication of our team. Our people are the heart of our success. They embody our values and deliver exceptional service to the families and communities we serve.”

Over the past several years, Whittier Trust has experienced steady growth, expanding its footprint with new offices in West Los Angeles (2022), Menlo Park (2022), and San Diego (2025). The firm has also recently earned additional Best Workplaces honors from the Puget Sound and Orange County Business Journals and is currently celebrating 25 years of serving clients in Seattle. 

The Los Angeles Business Journal’s Best Places to Work program, in partnership with Workforce Research Group, identifies and honors top employers in Los Angeles County based on a comprehensive two-part assessment. Twenty percent of the score is based on an evaluation of company policies, benefits, and culture; the remaining eighty percent comes directly from anonymous employee feedback.

The full rankings appear in the August 11, 2025, issue of the Los Angeles Business Journal. To view the complete list, visit https://labusinessjournal.com/events/bptw2025/.

For more information on the Best Places to Work in Los Angeles program, visit bestplacestoworklosangeles.com.

If you're interested in a career at one of the top workplaces in Los Angeles, visit our Careers Page to learn more and find a position that may fit you.

For more information about Whittier Trust's wealth management and family office services, start a conversation with a Whittier Trust advisor today by visiting our contact page.

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