Stories of Leadership: Rick Keller

Rick Keller graduated from San Diego State University in 1979 with a finance degree.

He established the First Foundation Advisor’s predecessor organization in 1990. During the past 20 years he has provided the vision and investment management leadership to create an integrated financial company offering wealth management, consulting, trust and banking services.

His knowledge of the economy is a key part in delivering the wealth management services at First Foundation Advisors. He is a recognized leader in the field of investment advisors and served twice on the Schwab Institutional Advisory Board and Worth Magazines Best Financial Advisors.

Tell us the highlights of your professional career. What are your proudest achievements?

There were two major decisions that I made that had a major impact on my career. The first was to go “fee only” in my financial advisor role in 1987. The second was to open and capitalize with investors First Foundation Bank that we founded in 2007.

What’s your favorite college memory?

Attending SDSU football brings back great memories. I also had the opportunity to live on campus and developed great friendships during this period of my life. SDSU gave me a great start.

Who was your favorite professor and/or what was your favorite class?

I am indebted to Tom Warschauer who helped “open my eyes” to a career in financial planning. He recommended I become a Certified Financial Planner. My favorite classes were the investment and finance courses that I took.  

If you were to give current SDSU students some advice, what would you say?

My advice is to implement what you learn in school; learning is a life-long experience and it does not end when you graduate. Doors will open for you and you must step through and seize the opportunities that are available to you. Have the mentality of an owner. Remember that at your first job, you pay them and at your second job, they will pay you.

What are you currently reading? What’s your favorite book?

I read financial research on investing and the economy for their news and informative articles every day. A book I am currently reading is "The Most Important Thing" by Howard Marks.

What is your passion?

My passion is helping people solve their financial problems.

What is your motto?

“Always put your clients first."

If you won the lottery, what would you do with your winnings?

I feel like I already have won the lottery. I have been a big supporter of higher education for more than 20 years and will continue to do so. I focus on helping families that have struggled since the 2008 recession. I will also expand my support to the arts and health care.

Which trait do you value most in your friends and colleagues?

I value integrity most with my friends and colleagues.

If you knew you could not fail, what would you attempt?

Financial illiteracy is a major concern of mine so I would implement a national financial literacy program for all high school students.