Celebrating 140 Years
- May 11, 2021
We are honoring our 140 year anniversary in 2021. As we celebrate this new milestone of helping our clients achieve their financial objectives, we look ahead to the next 140 years and remain as committed as ever to providing the products, insights, and service that stands the test of time.
Read the short stories from our employees as they reflect on the firm, their journeys, as well as our culture of collaboration and client service that make us who we are.
Albert Lowenthal
CEO & Chairman
The heritage of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. dates back well over a century, and derives from an amalgamation of old line firms, the earliest of which was Fahnestock & Co. Today, we celebrate the 140th anniversary of Fahnestock & Co., formed by William and Harris Fahnestock on May 11th, 1881 in New York City. During this milestone moment, we stand stronger than ever. It is a tribute to our values, our energy, and most of all our people. Thank you for your continuous efforts and contributions to our firm, Oppenheimer, whose best years are in the future.
Carl Reich, 61 Years
Senior Director - Investments, Private Client Division
I came to the firm through an acquisition and was inspired to stay because I was given creative freedom – the firm doesn’t micromanage the way I run my business. My philosophy is to always deliver, never quit, stay positive, and stay in the race. The resources and support from the firm have allowed me to live my philosophy, be an individual, and be successful on Wall Street for over 60 years.
Craig Hutchinson, 45 Years
Managing Director – Investments, Private Client Division
I joined the firm in 1976, though it was Fahnestock at the time – thus source of Oppenheimer’s 1881 roots. During my career, I’ve witnessed many changes, learned a lot, and found much challenge. But, most importantly I’ve managed to maintain balance in my life, with much joy and minimal stress. Oppenheimer has helped me develop a career and create valued relationships, of which I am proud – all while providing the autonomy to serve my clients in the best way possible.
Joan Gilchrist, 40 Years
Executive Director - Investments, Private Client Division
Oppenheimer is a firm that fosters entrepreneurship, and provides an environment where creativity can thrive. I have always been able to manage my business on my own. High level management is accessible for problem-solving in new business generation and supporting client relationships. Management also has a history of being flexible – allowing me to work from home 32 years ago when my first child was born.
Robert Hord, Jr., 38 Years
Senior Vice President, Private Client Division
Oppenheimer is like a majestic tree. We have deep roots with partners who have been here for decades. New members are embraced as branches grow and spread. Our firm stands tall in the forest of our industry, and we will continue to prosper through the storms and seasons of the markets ahead.
Yvonne Rouse, 37 Years
Executive Director, Corporate Marketing
I have spent more than half of my life at Oppenheimer, sharing my family, creating new relationships, and constantly evolving with the firm. The progression of Oppenheimer is inspiring. I have seen us move from a time of typewriters into the modern age of digital and social delivery. We continue to develop and advance within each era, yet we continue to maintain our deep rich culture of being “One Oppenheimer Family.” I am proud to be part of this milestone.
Lydia Senatore, 33 Years
Executive Director, Compliance
My association with the firm goes back 50 years, when I first began my career at the predecessor firm, Fahnestock & Co. in 1971. And still to this day, I am proud and honored to be a part of the firm’s success. It has been quite a ride. Along the way I have worked in every department – from the branches, trading, order room, operations to compliance – and I have always felt appreciated, motivated, and part of a family.
Katie Saia, 26 Years
Senior Director, Regional Compliance Officer
When I think to myself that I’ve been with Oppenheimer for twenty six years, I am amazed. So many personal and professional milestones have come-and-gone in my life, and Oppenheimer has been on the journey with me. I’ve also been fortunate enough to work in several different departments and locations within the firm, which has expanded my skill set and work experience. To have growth within the organization has been beneficial to me in so many ways and is one of the reasons that I have remained. Most importantly, throughout my career at Oppenheimer I have been introduced to so many great people and developed life-long friendships – for that I am most grateful.
Jeffrey Armstrong, 23 Years
Managing Director, Operations
What makes Oppenheimer a great firm is its family environment, the opportunities made available, the continued learning environment, and its cultivating from within mentality. I want to congratulate Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. on celebrating its 140th anniversary which is a true testament to its core values and to its people.
Chris Kosik , 23 Years
Managing Director, OAM
What I appreciate most about Oppenheimer is our collaborative approach. I have the opportunity and privilege to work with experts across the firm on all facets of our business. This cooperative approach requires a high level of communication; from Sales and Marketing to Operations, Technology, Legal and Compliance. Our work is always multifaceted and cross-disciplinary. This offers daily opportunities to learn from others and grow personally and professionally.
Leon Molokie, 16 Years
Chief Operations Officer, Operations
I am proud to be a part of the culture of collaboration at Oppenheimer. This has allowed me to grow from a clerk to the position I hold today. I am committed to this culture and I am rewarded by the opportunity to work with and help evolve team members into future leaders.
It is no surprise that this firm has flourished for 140 years.
Erica Moffet, 16 Years
Managing Director, Equity Research
Oppenheimer has great people and a great culture – everyone is focused, talented and driven to provide the best service and experience for our clients. I have been working at the firm for over a decade and it has become my best home away from home!
Michaelle Montgomery, 15 Years
Executive Director, Compliance
Oppenheimer’s culture is extremely welcoming and positive, particularly with respect to making sure its employees are challenged and motivated. Simultaneously, relationships developed and fostered inside and outside of the firm. It is those relationships that help Oppenheimer maintain its leading position in the industry.
Chris Lazos, 13 Years
Managing Director, Private Client Division
Oppenheimer provides the flexibility to create your own successful practice based on your own vision. The hands-off management approach of the firm allows each entrepreneur to control their process, while still providing the support and resources necessary to grow your business. The firm also provides unique investment opportunities, separating us from competitors. Ultimately, this gives entrepreneurs the edge to win and excel.
Tanner Robinson, 12 Years
Executive Director, Private Client Division
Oppenheimer is a dynamic firm that continues to evolve to meet rapidly changing demands of modern wealth management. Yet we stay true to core values that have kept the firm in business for 140 years. Most importantly, the institution genuinely values its relationships both with its employees and its clients.
WIlliam (Bill) Reisner, 10 Years
Managing Director, Public Finance
Oppenheimer values the entrepreneurial spirit; it is not just table talk. The firm provides our public finance bankers the latitude and sufficient runway to create and launch unique programs on our platform that result in market leader status. This makes Oppenheimer a great place to work.
William Cassarini, 7 Years
Managing Director, Legal
I joined Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. because I wanted to work with a well-respected firm where I could contribute and have a long career. Oppenheimer is that firm. I appreciate working in a collaborative law department where we all support each other. Additionally, I am always impressed with the caliber of the attorneys, management, and financial advisors here. We aim to be business friendly without losing sight of being risk managers. I relish being a part of the Oppenheimer team, and it is truly a joy to come to work each morning.
Kristen Owen, 6 Years
Executive Director, Equity Research
What has impressed me most since joining Oppenheimer is the people; I work alongside some of the most thoughtful analysts and talented stock-pickers in the industry. Equally rewarding, and unique to Oppenheimer, is that I work with people who are invested in my development and care about me and my success as an individual.
Adam Algaze, 5 Years
Managing Director, Compliance
At Oppenheimer, you are not boxed into a role or duty. We are flexible in allowing our people to work on a variety of projects and initiatives. We don’t believe in limiting contact based on levels, but rather, in fostering a community of professionals committed to collaboration, kindness, and knowledge sharing. Bureaucracies are simply not present here.
Hartaj Singh, 5 Years
Managing Director, Equity Research
I think that Oppenheimer has two characteristics that I admire; one is that teamwork is admired and rewarded, 1+1 can truly be greater than 2. And secondly, management fosters a collaborative and respect-based approach to professional and personal relationships. We are truly Wall Street’s ‘great peeps’!
Alina Cheung, 2 Years
Executive Director, Investment Banking
I wanted to join a company where people encourage new ideas and suggestions, and where you can see the immediate impact of your contributions. I am proud to be part of a firm that embraces the entrepreneurial spirit.
Courtney McCardle, 2 Years
Associate Director, Finance & Funding
As Oppenheimer proudly celebrates its 140th anniversary, it’s important for future employees to know we belong to a culture that exemplifies true empathy, the power of positive leadership, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Our firm operates in a way that grants each employee the freedom to take initiative and become more innovative – as one diverse team. Oppenheimer’s employees are united by the same purpose and values that created a history of success, and that each of us will work to make sure lives on.