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Valerie Nichols CFA® Director of Investments

Valerie works with individuals and families to determine their investment goals and objectives, quantify their risk tolerance and develop a plan to move them toward their goals.

Valerie partners with our financial planners to ensure we are closely coordinating the clients’ goals with their financial plan and investment strategy. Her clients value her insights, accessibility and proactive communications.

Valerie joined Smith + Howard Wealth Management in 2016 as Director of Investments after spending 19 years with SunTrust Bank, most recently as Senior Vice President and Investment Strategist in the Investment Advisory Group. In her role at SunTrust (now “Truist”), Valerie was responsible for over $700 million in assets under management for individual clients, trusts and foundations. She spent several years early in her career at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

As a member of the Investment Policy Committee, Valerie participates in monitoring and selecting investment managers and investment strategy for the firm.

Valerie lives with her husband in the Chastain Park neighborhood of Atlanta and they have two children.

Taking care of client needs and exceeding their expectations is what gives me the most job satisfaction. I put clients first in everything I do and the rewarding relationships I have built with clients is what keeps driving me every day.
Education

Georgia State University – Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration

Certifications/Organizations
  • Atlanta Society of Finance and Investment Professionals
  • Former Equity and Alternatives Instructor for the CFA Review Course
  • Georgia State University Women Lead program participant
  • All Saints Episcopal Refugee Ministry volunteer
  • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®)
  • Young Men Service League of Sandy Springs volunteer
Hometown

Atlanta, Georgia

Interests + Hobbies
  • Hiking
  • Playing tennis and basketball with her children
  • Spending time with extended family in Atlanta
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Tim F. Agnew Managing Director
Julio Barahona Director of Operations
Jeff M. Brandon Senior Wealth Planner
Jace Brooks Wealth Advisor
Lisa Curles Senior Client Service Specialist
Elijah Hooker Investment Analyst
Robert L. Kaercher Wealth Manager
Michael Mueller Senior Financial Planner
Stephanie Roberts Senior Client Service Specialist
Brad Swinsburg Partner + Chief Investment Officer