Meet Dave
Dave is a Wealth Advisor based in Asheville, North Carolina. He joined Mercer Advisors in 2022 through the acquisition of Starks Financial Group where he served 10 years as Financial Planner and leader of the firm’s Investment Committee. In addition to being a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Dave was one of the first advisors in North Carolina to earn the credential of Chartered SRI Counselor™ for specializing in sustainable and responsible investing. He was also a founding member of the Raymond James Sustainable Investing Advisory Council. Dave earned a B.S. degree in economics and psychology from Vanderbilt University.
Dave’s specialties
At Mercer Advisors, all of our wealth advisors provide a highly personalized approach, backed by a team of specialists that ensure every part of your financial list is addressed. Additionally, Dave has focused experience in these areas:
- Planning for retirement, from high-earning years to long-term income strategies
- Guiding clients through living in retirement with steady income and smart planning
- Guiding higher education professionals in maximizing benefits and preparing for retirement
- Supporting nonprofit organizations with investment management, governing, and growth strategies to help advance their mission
- Aligning portfolios with purpose for clients pursuing values-based investing
His working style
Dave takes a collaborative and personalized approach to wealth management, recognizing that every client’s goals, values, and circumstances are distinct. He prioritizes listening first — gaining a deep understanding of what clients want and need — before developing strategies tailored to their financial and personal priorities. Working within the Mercer Advisors team‑based model, Dave brings clients the depth of knowledge needed to address complex financial needs, while serving as a single, trusted point of contact.
Dave in real life
Favorite thing about where you live?
The Asheville area has been my home for more than 30 years and is full of terrific hiking trails and mountain streams, plus great live music and awesome minor league baseball.
How do you give back?
I’ve served on a nonprofit financial education and counseling group’s board for 10 years and volunteered with local environmental organizations for many years.
What keeps you busy outside of work?
Hiking in the backcountry, hearing live music, goofing around with my family and dogs, searching for the ultimate swimming hole, and cheering on my Chicago Cubs.
Meet Dave’s Teammates
Kathryn Beach
Wealth Advisor
What Dave Says
Kathryn is great at sharing new ways of getting things done for clients.
Carson Durham
Client Service Specialist
What Dave Says
Carson has a terrific attitude when facing obstacles at work. He jumps right in with a good laugh and positive attitude.
Sarah Cannon
Principal
What Dave Says
Sarah is always there to work through challenges and supports me in finding solutions.
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