Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Images by Ryan McGill
Grayson Barber recently joined the Riverpeak Partners of Raymond James team in Downtown Jasper. He returned home to seek employment after studying accounting at the University of Alabama and graduating in 2023. Fresh out of school and eager to embark on a career in the financial industry, Grayson reached out to Riverpeak Partners’ Toby Banks.
“I knew Toby from when I played tennis with his son, Tyler, in high school. I texted Toby, told him I was looking for a job, and asked if he would be interested in letting me come in for an interview. So, I came in, met Matthew [Laird], and the interview went well,” says Grayson.
Accepting a long-term position, Grayson has now begun training to become a financial advisor. Over the next few years, he will complete the necessary exams and training to obtain his license and build his client base.
As he navigates between the Jasper and Birmingham offices, Grayson will gain insights into approaching clients, managing their finances, and fostering strong relationships. Offering services in retirement planning, taxes, estate planning, social security, and investments, Grayson aspires to guide his clients toward a financially secure future as he finds his niche within the industry.
“Our goal is that when people retire, they can live comfortably. We want them to have something to show for all the hard work they have put in. We want to work and plan together sooner rather than later,” says Grayson. “And it’s based on client relationships. I’m trying to help them out, but it’s also a win for me because that’s how I make my living. Toby and Matthew say my success in this line of work is based on how well I manage relationships. So being able to build relationships was a big part of the reason I decided to start down this career path.”
Grayson envisions a long-term commitment to Riverpeak Partners, aiming to serve the community that raised him.
The Walker Leader congratulates Grayson on this significant milestone and wishes him success in his career! WL
