Post Type: News

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.

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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.

Contact Us
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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.

Contact Us
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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 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.

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

Contact Us
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Aug 7th

Whittier Trust Promotes Jesse Ostroff and Patrick Coyle to Vice President

Whittier Trust strengthens a culture of excellence through internal advancement.

Whittier Trust is pleased to announce the promotions of Jesse Ostroff and Patrick Coyle to the role of Vice President. These promotions underscore Whittier Trust’s commitment to hiring best-in-class client advisors and portfolio managers, fostering professional development, and advancing talent from within as the firm continues to grow. 

Jesse Ostroff, Vice President and Client Advisor, Philanthropic Services

Jesse Ostroff has been a significant advisor to families' philanthropic endeavors. He advises high-net-worth individuals, families, and entities on their charitable giving strategies. Jesse provides comprehensive support for clients who are actively engaged in philanthropy or seeking to establish a philanthropic practice. His work includes strategic guidance on foundation governance, grantmaking, and charitable planning aligned with clients’ values and long-term legacy goals. Jesse is known for his thoughtful approach to navigating complex philanthropic issues and for helping clients translate intention into meaningful impact.

Jesse holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from UCLA and an undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan. He was recently appointed to the Executive Committee of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation. Jesse is fluent in Spanish and conversational in Brazilian Portuguese, which enhances his ability to serve a diverse client base.

Patrick Coyle, Vice President and Portfolio Manager

Patrick Coyle leads Whittier Trust’s International Equity strategy and provides investment oversight for both taxable and tax-exempt portfolios. Patrick brings analytical depth to investment selection and portfolio construction, supporting external manager due diligence and contributing to the active management of the firm's international equity strategy.

Patrick received his MBA from UCLA and holds an undergraduate degree in economics and mathematics from Washington College in Maryland. He is a CFA charterholder and an active member of the CFA Society of Los Angeles.

“Jesse and Patrick exemplify the caliber of thought leadership, integrity, and client service that defines Whittier Trust,” said David Dahl, CEO of Whittier Trust. “Their promotions are a testament to the firm’s continued growth and our belief in cultivating talent from within. We’re proud to support the advancement of professionals who not only contribute to our clients’ success but also embody our long-term vision.”

The elevation of Jesse Ostroff and Patrick Coyle comes amid a period of steady expansion for Whittier Trust, including a new office in San Diego, launched this year, and a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Seattle office. The oldest multi-family office headquartered on the West Coast continues to deepen its bench of top-tier experts across disciplines and invest in services that meet the evolving needs of ultra-high-net-worth clients and their families.

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 5th

Whittier Trust Welcomes Steven Ward as Vice President of Real Estate in Newport Beach

With local expertise and institutional experience, Steven Ward advances Whittier Trust’s real estate offerings in and around Orange County.

Whittier Trust is proud to welcome Steven Ward as Vice President of Real Estate, based in the firm’s Newport Beach office. Steven joins Whittier Trust with an extensive background in real estate investment and a track record of helping clients navigate and maximize their holdings across a wide range of asset classes.

In his new role, Steven will be responsible for oversight of and advising on the firm’s diverse portfolio of client-owned real estate, including asset management, leasing strategies, operations, acquisitions, dispositions, and financing. He will also play a key role in identifying new investment opportunities, applying the analytical rigor of institutional investing with Whittier Trust’s high-touch, relationship-driven approach.

"Steven’s thoughtful approach to real estate and long-standing industry expertise make him a tremendous addition to our team,” said Charles Adams III, Executive Vice President, Real Estate. “He brings a perspective that blends strategy, stewardship, and a deep understanding of how real estate can serve long-term generational goals.”

With nearly two decades in the real estate industry, Steven’s experience spans a variety of property types and disciplines, including investment sales, equity placement, and buy-side advisory services. He has held senior roles at CBRE, Colliers, and Savills, where he led complex transactions and guided clients across a national footprint. With over $5 billion in transaction volume facilitated for institutional and private investors, his knowledge of both the financial and operational sides of real estate adds depth to Whittier Trust’s robust real estate practice.

Steven’s addition reflects Whittier Trust’s continued investment in capabilities that set the firm apart. As one of the few multi-family offices to offer dedicated, in-house real estate expertise, Whittier Trust provides clients with a level of strategic, hands-on support rarely found in the industry. This integrated approach ensures that real estate is managed with the same long-term perspective, care, and clarity that anchor the firm’s enduring approach.

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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Jul 17th

Whittier Trust Featured in San Diego Business Journal

Whit Batchelor sat down with the San Diego Business Journal to discuss Whittier Trust's newest office.

Whittier Trust, a Pasadena-based wealth management company that serves "ultra-wealthy" clients, is opening a San Diego County office in Carmel Valley.

Founded in 1989 by the Whittier Family, which includes Helen Woodward of the animal shelter fame and philanthropist Paul Whittier, the firm has signed a three-year sublease for about 7,000 square feet of space on the second floor of an office building at One Paseo. "It will be our first brick-and-mortar office in San Diego (county)," said Whit Batchelor, the Whittier Executive Vice President who heads the San Diego County office.

"We're super excited about having a more visible local presence," Batchelor said.

The firm also has offices in Menlo Park, Newport Beach, Pasadena, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, Reno, and Seattle, according to its website.

Managing $25 billion in assets, Whittier Trust serves more than 600 families in 48 states, according to Batchelor, with about a dozen clients in San Diego County.

"They're all some of the most affluent families in San Diego," Batchelor said.

Whittier chose One Paseo for its San Diego County office because its local clients are concentrated in North County, primarily Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, La Jolla and Solana Beach, Batchelor said.

The firm is spending $400,000 to $500,000 on tenant improvements, most of which Batchelor said will be for redoing the lobby.

He said his goal is to add two to three new San Diego clients annually and gradually expand the San Diego office from its initial staff of six to seven professionals to about 30 over the next 10 years.

"We want to grow and partner with the right families in San Diego," Batchelor said. "One thing our clients all have in common is that they have big balance sheets."

Whittier Family History of Giving Back

To become a Whittier client, someone must have liquid assets of at least $15 million and pay annual dues of $150,000, Batchelor said.

"We think that San Diego is a fantastic market for our services," Batchelor said, adding that they include everything from real estate investments to managing stock portfolios and charitable donations.

"For us, being part of the community means giving back to the community. A big part of what we do is facilitate our clients' philanthropy," said Batchelor, who lives in Point Loma.

Paul Whittier, who died in 1991, focused much of his philanthropy on such San Diego institutions as Scripps Memorial Hospitals, the San Diego Maritime Museum, the Zoological Society of San Diego, and the Aerospace Museum.

Whittier Trust traces its history back to the early 1900s when Max Whittier, a former Maine potato farmer, moved west and made his fortune in real estate and petroleum.

His company, Belridge Oil Company, was sold to Shell Oil in 1979 for $3.65 billion, which was a record at the time, according to the Whittier Trust website.

Featured in San Diego Business Journal. Author Ray Huard interviews Whit Batchelor, Executive Vice President, Client Advisor, San Diego Regional Manager.

For more information on the new office or to start a conversation with a Whittier Trust advisor today, visit 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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Jul 15th

Whittier Trust Welcomes Kiley Barnhorst MacDonald as Senior Vice President, Client Advisor

Whittier Trust further strengthens its rapidly growing San Diego team with veteran trust and estates advisor, Kiley Barnhorst MacDonald.

Whittier Trust is pleased to welcome Kiley Barnhorst MacDonald as Senior Vice President and Client Advisor, based in the firm’s new San Diego office. With more than 30 years of experience at the intersection of the legal, corporate, and nonprofit sectors, Kiley is a trusted advisor to ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families. She is widely respected for her ability to navigate complex family dynamics and multigenerational planning with a steady hand and thoughtful, practical insight.

A San Diego native and fifth-generation Southern Californian, Kiley brings a coveted combination of legal acumen, strategic planning, and financial analysis to her work, tailoring each relationship to reflect the specific values and goals of the individuals and families she serves. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to approach wealth management with both technical depth and a personal touch.

As she begins this chapter with the San Diego office, Kiley will play a key role in trust and estate planning, fiduciary oversight, philanthropic strategy, and family governance, staying true to the proactive and personalized service at the heart of Whittier Trust.

“Kiley brings the kind of deep expertise and authentic connection that makes a lasting impact,” said Whit Batchelor, Executive Vice President, Client Advisor, and San Diego Regional Manager at Whittier Trust. “She’s already a trusted voice in our community, and her arrival is a meaningful  step forward in building our San Diego presence with intention and care.”

Before joining Whittier Trust, Kiley served as Senior Vice President, Senior Trust Advisor at Northern Trust Wealth Management. She also practiced in La Jolla at Albence & Associates and the Law Offices of W. Neal Schram. Kiley holds a JD from UCLA School of Law and a BA in Economics from Dartmouth College. She is a California State Bar Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kiley is a dedicated community leader who has served on the boards of several nonprofit and educational organizations. She has been recognized by the Legal Aid Society for her pro bono efforts supporting families in probate court.

Whittier Trust opened its San Diego office earlier this year to meet the needs of a growing client base in the region. With Kiley now on board, the firm continues to build a team of top-tier professionals who combine technical excellence with an unwavering commitment to client service.

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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