About Us
Russell Wealth Management was founded in 2009 in Williamsville, New York, carrying the name of its founder, David Russell. Since then, we've grown to serve clients nationally, with a focus that hasn't shifted: wealth management built around each person's specific circumstances rather than a standardized approach applied broadly.
Built Around Real Availability
The people we work with have full lives and, often, questions that don't wait for a scheduled meeting. We make ourselves available for real conversations, schedule reviews as often as clients want them, and stay in contact throughout the year.
No Mystery Around Fees
We're clear about what we charge and how we're compensated, and that conversation happens before any work begins. The fee structure, what it covers, and how it's organized should all be understood before a client commits to working with anyone. We hold ourselves to that standard.
David L. Russell
Founder and President
Dave is the founder and president of Russell Wealth Management. With 35+ years of financial experience with premier companies Merrill Lynch and Smith Barney, he leads the RWM team with a wealth of knowledge and a dedicated approach to his clients, delivering the personalized investment planning services they deserve. Dave is a longtime supporter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and has served on numerous boards. In addition to being an avid golfer, he enjoys travel, wine, fitness activities, and cooking for family and friends. Dave is a member at Park Country Club.
Carolyn M. Russell
Client Services
Carolyn has been with Russell Wealth Management since inception. She comes from an extensive banking background from positions held in both the retail and commercial areas at Frontier Bank, Denver, CO and Chase Bank, Buffalo, NY. Carolyn holds a Bachelor's degree from SUNY Buffalo and obtained her Series 7 registration (GSRE) in 2015, currently held with LPL Financial. She runs the day to day operations of RWM and supports the team in client relations. She volunteers and supports The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Buffalo Philharmonic, and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Carolyn loves spending time with family. She enjoys travel, golf, anything on the water, and playing cards, especially bridge. As a student of the classical guitar, she also enjoys a lot of time practicing and performing with her classical guitar quartet.
Alex Bencini
Financial Advisor
Alex is a licensed LPL Financial Advisor with Russell Wealth Management. With a diversified background in forensic accounting and finance, he quickly became a highly contributing asset after obtaining his Series 7 (GSRE) and Series 66 (Uniform Combined State Law Exam) currently held with LPL Financial. He has also obtained licenses in life, accident, and health insurance. Alex holds a Bachelor's in Accounting from Canisius College. Before joining Russell Wealth Management in 2016, Alex worked with Tronconi, Segarra & Associates, was assistant to the Vice President of Finance at Hanes Supply Corporation, and gained experience as a business planning analyst at M&T Securities, Inc. "I chose a career in wealth management to help people lay out their financial roadmap to retirement,” Alex says. “My goal is to help them worry about one less thing in their busy lives: money.” Away from the office, Alex is an avid golfer as a member of Transit Valley Country Club. He enjoys reading and pursues fitness activities regularly. Alex enjoys spending time with his family and friends, and especially loves being a new Dad!
Melissa DeSimone
Client Service Associate
Melissa is the Client Service Associate for Russell Wealth Management. She joined the firm in April 2018. In addition to a warm personality, she brings over 20 years of experience in both office administration and client servicing. Melissa assists the team in all aspects of daily operations and client support. Outside of work, she values quality time with her family, enjoys music and traveling.