
Lisa Cook
COO & Partner
Pacific Portfolio

Your strength lies in your intellect
We assist our clients in focusing on the things that truly makes them happy. At Pacific Portfolio, we offer wealth management, trust services, and institutional services.
Consider a small-to-mid-sized business owner who provides their employees with a 401k plan. They may be uncertain about the necessary steps or the best approach to take. We can provide assistance by utilizing our institutional team, who can serve as a co-fiduciary, providing investment advice and educational services to employees. Now, this same business owner is seeking assistance with their personal investments. We can provide a wealth management advisor who will collaborate with them to provide financial enlightenment through planning, investment proposals, and ongoing white-glove client service. Ultimately, the assets and family of this business proprietor have expanded. They require assistance with estate planning and potentially trust services due to the complexity that has arisen. Pacific Portfolio also has a trust company with in-house expertise to assist.
After graduating from college, with a marketing major, Lisa decided on a whim to go into the financial industry. Most marketing jobs were with startup companies, this was during the dot.com era, which was very new, paying minimal and offering stock options. The financial firms were offering higher pay which could support her rent in Seattle.
Lisa entered the finance industry to pay her rent but stayed because of the rewarding work associated with helping individuals understand their financial situation.
Lisa has worked within the broker-dealer space as well as the RIA space over the span of her career. Within the last few years she welcomed an opportunity to return to the RIA space.
Approximately ten years into her career, Lisa transitioned from a broker-dealer to an RIA, following 2 advisors she had worked with. She was unaware of the RIA space and all the benefits to her own career and more importantly the client’s experience.
Throughout Lisa's professional career, she has had the responsibility and opportunity to develop and implement business models, strategic initiatives, and new investment rollouts. Eventually, Lisa emphasizes the importance of having a clear objective, strategic alignment, and a project plan that includes key deliverables and timelines, and clear accountability. It is important to remember that individuals often fear change. Thus, presenting strong arguments and securing support from strategic partners will alleviate some of the discomfort, in her view.
Lisa and her family are passionate about exploring new places and enjoying local cuisine. They strive to explore various locations both nationally and internationally. Their daughter would accompany them as well. Traveling broadens perspective, allows for the absorption of novel cultures and concepts, and provides the opportunity to indulge in delectable cuisine. Pilates holds a special place in her heart, as she believes it is essential for reducing her tension levels.
By clearing her mind, she can generate more innovative ideas and experience "ah ha" moments. Lisa is also enthusiastic about philanthropy, and she is fortunate that Pacific Portfolio shares her enthusiasm.
In terms of leadership, the "train and trust" program is the leadership style that Lisa implements most adeptly. She believes it is essential to have individuals who can learn, ask questions, and operate independently without micromanagement. She frequently recommends that her teams engage in the process, learn from their mistakes, document the correct approach, and provide suggestions for improvement if they identify a more effective one. She also attempts to set a positive example by being responsive, actively listening, punctual, and holding herself accountable. Furthermore, she must exhibit her leadership abilities by making difficult decisions and ensuring their implementation. Besides, their company fosters a culture that promotes collaboration, open communication, trust, and camaraderie among members. Businesses will find that significant ideas begin to emerge when workers feel like team members, in a secure environment, and with trust, adds Lisa.
Lisa uses various methods to stay informed about industry trends, popular topics, and competitors. For her, first and foremost, having a network is essential. She maintains a substantial network of CEOs and COOs in her field who work together to identify common issues, suggest resolutions, and recommend vendors. She considers this correlation particularly insightful regarding HR and process issues. She cultivates strong relationships with several key vendors and has participated on advisory boards. On top of that, they also conduct industry benchmark studies that provide valuable insights into emerging topics and relevant firm data.
Lisa believes that, like many other industries, they are currently exploring secure methods for integrating AI. Understanding the risks, benefits, and implementation process is crucial for safeguarding clients' data, which is of paramount importance. They also conduct annual client surveys to ensure they stay informed about their clients' preferences, objections, and market trends. By placing greater emphasis on the concept of value, they help their clients concentrate on the things that truly bring them joy!
Lisa hopes to share this rewarding experience with college students by providing mentoring, education, and inspiration. She aspires to encourage them, particularly women, to pursue careers in the financial wealth management sector!

Company
Management
Lisa Cook
COO & Partner
Pacific Portfolio
Description
With over 30 years in the field of providing comprehensive financial guidance to individuals, families, and institutions, Pacific Portfolio’s team of advisors is personally and professionally invested in the success of each of our clients.