Building Connections is one of our core values. To help us stay better connected with one another, each quarter we feature a team member from each of the Ripple Companies. Get to know more about Alexander Ali (JBA), Nina Mertva (ITS), and Daron Deonier (The Difference).
Nina, ITS
What is your role in the Ripple Companies?
At the Ripple Companies, my role is Client Services Team member/Tax Preparer. This title sums up what I do very well. In addition to preparing various tax returns, I help answer phone calls, assist clients, and do the background clerical work of the CST.
What does a typical day look like for you?
In a typical workday, I start by checking my emails and doing the little tasks that I may have left from the day before. Then, I work on the preparation tasks that I have, which I prefer to do early on in my day as it usually takes the most thinking and brain power. Finally, I work on other tasks that CST needs help with, and I love switching to sit up front and answer calls, as it changes around what I’m doing.
What aspect of your work makes you happiest?
The aspect of my work that makes me the happiest is helping people with knowledge. It was the best feeling to see a client come out of a meeting with Randy, tears of joy in her eyes, because she had gotten great news regarding the results of her tax return. In the same way, with tax knowledge, I would like to help people figure out what they need for taxes, what they’re paying, and how to plan out big life decisions.
When are you at your best?
I always try to do my best work, but I am at my best when I am challenged in a healthy way – when people expect the best of me and have confidence that I will do the work. With others believing in what I can do, this helps me set better expectations for myself and have faith that I can do it. In this way, I am at my best.
Daron, The Difference
What is your role in the Ripple Companies?
My role in the Ripple companies is the Director of sales and business development for The Difference. It is a dynamic role that encompasses buying for the stores and helping to create opportunities for our team in the realm of sales and community connections. It’s the best job in the whole world!
What does a typical day look like for you?
My day starts at 5:00 a.m. with a Pure Barre workout- I love the physical challenge and the time to connect with my body. It’s a routine that really gives me energy and emotional elasticity for the demands of the day. I start the workday after cuddling my fluffy pup with emails to vendors and strategy meetings in the mornings with fellow leaders before business hours, and spend the majority of the day bouncing between working with my teammates on trunk shows, merchandising and marketing or meeting with Styling clients. No two days are ever the same.
What aspect of your work makes you happiest?
I absolutely love seeing people feel their best and shine brighter. Whether that’s a client or a colleague, there’s a magical moment when you just know someone is experiencing joy and feeling confident in themselves. Being a stylist is the most rewarding job on the planet and combining creativity with constant problem-solving is an absolute joy!
When are you at your best?
I’m at my best when I have given my body rest, water and healthy foods. Surrounding myself with people that I love, time outside in nature, a little time to dance to disco, sing karaoke, and quite honestly when I am at work- I love what I do, and it fuels my soul!
Alexander, Johnson Bixby
What is your role in the Ripple Companies?
I’m a member of the Client Services Team at Johnson Bixby.
- Processing trades or money movements in clients’ accounts
- Prepping client appointment materials for the Planners
- Sitting in on client meetings and taking notes
- Processing any paperwork for changes to clients’ accounts that come out of client meetings
- Answering client questions via phone or email
- Scheduling client appointments
- Creating/re-styling financial literacy presentations
- And more…
What aspect of your work makes you happiest?
The smiles on clients’ faces, and the appreciation we receive for the work we do is always motivating!
There’s also nothing quite like the thrill of accomplishing a big task, or buttoning up all of my To Dos, and just generally getting stuff done.
When are you at your best?
I’m at my best when I’m part of a collaborative team of good-hearted people who are REALLY good at what they do. Needless to say, the Client Services Team and the Planners fit that description to a Tee! The continued support, education, and encouragement I receive on a daily basis inspires me to show up as the best version of myself.
