It’s not uncommon these days for people to start one career and then to – quite suddenly – find a new and unexpected opportunity that results in a change in direction. Such is the case for Brandon James, a financial advisor at Marzano Capital Group.
“I spent the first part of my career as a Subway franchisee,” explained Brandon. “I owned one store and had partial ownership in two others. While it was a great experience in many ways, running three restaurants with three children at home is very challenging. So after much reflection and many discussions with my wife, we decided I needed a change.
“I was still young enough to try something new, and when speaking with my own financial advisor, he shared with me about the opportunities in his field. I was intrigued by the process of financial management, so in the spring of 2017, I began transitioning out of Subway. I joined Northwestern Mutual as a financial advisor in August 2017.”
Brandon continued, “It was really interesting to be on the other side of the table. While I work with clients in all stages of life to meet their financial goals, I still have a soft spot for working with entrepreneurs and business owners because I know their unique challenges firsthand.”
While Brandon is involved with building financial plans and working with clients, he shared that one of his favorite things is evaluating the risks and benefits of investments. “I compare it to examining the engine of a car. Only when we open the hood and look around can we fully appreciate and understand the mechanics of what makes the car run. The same is true with finances. I enjoy diving in and examining the options that can really make a person’s investments run well.”
After a few years at Northwestern Mutual, Brandon joined Marzano Capital Group in 2020. “I had met Mike McGilvary at the Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber of Commerce as a new financial advisor. When the opportunity to join Marzano Capital Group came up, it seemed a great fit. I was very intrigued by the opportunity to work in an independent environment. It’s given me more flexibility to think outside the box and help the clients we serve.”
Brandon has been married to his wife, Cambria, for 14 years. Together, they have three children – Ali, Ana, and Aiden. Brandon is a Clemmons native and a graduate of West Forsyth High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from East Carolina University.
Brandon enjoys playing golf and guitar and spending time outdoors in his spare time. He and his family love to travel, especially visiting and discovering new places.
Brandon is always eager to help individuals and families plan and prepare for their financial futures through sound financial management. “The relationship with our financial advisors is deeply personal, and it is anchored in trust. I know how much I depended on my financial advisor before transitioning into this field. It’s my goal to be the same kind of resource to the clients we serve at Marzano Capital Group.”
Marzano Capital Group is located at 2625 Neudorf Road, Suite 400, in Clemmons. Call them at 336.766.0464 or visit them online at MarzanoCapitalGroup.com. Also, be sure to like their page on Facebook.
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC, Investment advice offered through Independent Advisor Alliance, a registered investment advisor. Independent Advisor Alliance and Marzano Capital Group are separate entities from LPL Financial.
TWO FUN FACTS & A TIP
Brandon James shares two fun facts and his best financial tip:
- If Brandon could have any other career – he would want to be a PGA Golf Pro, though he admits he would need more practice for that career.
- Brandon is an Eagle Scout and is still active in the scouting community, currently serving on the Eagle Alumni Committee, “Awards & Recognition.”
BRANDON’S TIP: Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses because in reality, the Joneses might be broke.
