Jenn Smith
Private Client Advisor (PCA)
Favorite Movie: My favorite movie of all time is Dirty Dancing!
I studied abroad in Florence, Italy my junior year of college, where I met my dear friend, Judith, whom I shared an apartment with, and who referred me to FS.
My husband and I went on an African safari for our honeymoon; I still can’t believe I convinced him to do this!
Happy Friday! In this edition of our Featured Friday series, we talked to Jenn Smith, who shared her unique perspective on what it’s like to work directly with our clients and their teams. Keep reading to learn what it’s like to be a Private Client Advisor at Foundation Source.
When and why did you join Foundation Source?
I joined FS in June of 2021 after being in retail management for over 17 years. I was looking for a change in careers where I could impact clients by more than just making them happy by accommodating an expired coupon, and actually make a difference. Kidding aside, I can gladly say that watching my clients on their philanthropical journeys has been vastly rewarding.
What do you love about working at Foundation Source?
I truly love getting to interact with all clients who have different goals in helping to make the world a better place, it’s inspiring to witness and be a small part of their generosity. Additionally, I love that I started a new career in a world I knew nothing about and how generous all my colleagues have been with their time and teaching so that I’m able to function successfully in my role.
What is the best part of your job?
Knowing that each day is going to be different and challenging is what makes my days rewarding.
I look forward to knowing that each day is going to differ slightly, which motivates me, and knowing that I can build on client relationships, which is rewarding.”
Jenn Smith
Private Client Advisor (PCA)
What does your job entail?
My job as a Private Client Advisor (PCA) involves assisting clients and their advisors with various needs to help their private foundations function successfully. Some days, that could mean entering grants into our system, speaking with charities, onboarding future generations onto their foundations, doing live demos of our portal and much more!
What is your team like and what has your experience been with company culture?
My team is diverse and inspiring–and a huge pleasure to be a part of! We have a team chat where we can ask questions at all times, which is extremely helpful and keeps the comradery strong. My experience with company culture has been that it is apparent that all departments mesh well together to always deliver top level service to our clients.
What has been your favorite project at Foundation Source?
My favorite project was watching one of our celebrity clients formulate a program to support fellows who are making it their goal in life to affect climate change. Being able to see every stage of this process and watching it come into fruition has been a delight.
What has been your biggest accomplishment since joining Foundation Source?
Being able to assist some very high-profile clients in their planning meetings and hearing about their future needs and plans.
How have you grown professionally while on our team?
Learning to communicate thoughtfully and successfully with so many different clients’ personalities and perspectives has helped me evolve in my role as a relationship manager.
In your opinion, what makes the Foundation Source team special?
The Foundation Source team is so special because everyone I have personally encountered is eager for you to learn and excel and are so willing to spend their time ensuring that you have the necessary tools to succeed.
What parts of Foundation Source’s mission do you connect with?
The idea of empowering others to create a better world and knowing that there are so many not only fortunate, but generous and philanthropic individuals out there wanting to make a difference.
What is a memorable client experience you’ve had or heard about?
My client is in the process of donating funds to an international organization based out of Bolivia that focuses on therapeutic and educational needs of children with intellectual disabilities. Hearing his passion and sincerity of this project is inspiring.
What advice would you give to someone who doesn’t know about Foundation Source or may be thinking about joining the team?
Joining FS has been the best career move I’ve made, and I can only say that if you’re looking for a rewarding, challenging and motivating company, this is it! There is also a prevailing culture that puts an emphasis on work-life balance, which truly makes one feel valued.
Want to join our team?
Check out our careers page for open opportunities.
