Lou Desepoli
President & Founder
Accredited Investment Fiduciary®
Lou is the President and founder of Heritage Financial Advisory, which he established in 1987. He has more than 35 years of experience in investment management, financial planning, and tax consulting. He built the firm through a meticulous work ethic and a never-ending desire to see his clients succeed financially. He prides himself on being a trusted partner to his clients and aways being attentive to their financial needs.
Before Heritage, Lou received his B.B.A. from Iona College, and after graduation he began working for Ernst & Whinney (NYC) as an auditor. During his early years in the profession, Lou gained valuable insight and experience while working with various types of clients, focusing on investment management, financial planning and portfolio strategies. Lou is also a C.P.A., and by utilizing his experience it enables him to take a tax-sensitive approach for his clients.
Lou is married and has two children and four grandchildren. Lou’s wife Judy is the firm’s Director of Client Services. Lou’s son Mike is also an integral part of the team. Lou enjoys spending time in the outdoors and is an avid motorcycle rider. He has traveled over 50,000 miles across the country on his Harley Davidson Road King Classic. He is also a member of the Small Business Networking Alliance. Lou enjoys participating in the club’s community service activities.
Mike Desepoli
Vice President
Chartered Financial Consultant®
Accredited Investment Fiduciary®
Mike is a Financial Advisor and the Vice President of Heritage Financial Advisory, proudly serving high net worth families, executives, and individuals from various backgrounds across the country.
Mike is also the head of our investment committee and has attained both the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) through the American College of Financial Services, and the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF) designation from the Center for Fiduciary Studies. He has crafted our unique portfolio strategies and our bold proactive management approach, which has initiated tremendous growth for the firm over the last decade.
With the best interest of the client always at hand and a desire to realize needs before they exist, Mike challenged himself and his team at Heritage to create a brand that empowers clients to live their best life and realize their true potential. Mike headed the development of several in house media initiatives, including our Ask The Advisor show and Mike Talks Money podcast brand, which aim to help people of all ages and backgrounds get access to financial education that’s relevant and, more importantly, easy to understand.
Mike's "why" is to help people realize that they can use money as a tool to live a life they love! Mike is married to Danielle and resides in St. James, NY. Mike and Danielle have two boys, Michael and Nicholas. Mike is very active within his community and enjoys volunteering his time for charitable causes. He is a member of Business Networking International Meadows Edge Chapter, and an avid supporter of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. In his free time, he enjoys exercise, playing golf, travel, and spending time with his family.
Judy Desepoli
Director of Client Services
Judy is the Director of Client Services and plays a crucial role in the smooth functioning of the firm. She adds value for clients by striving to exceed their expectations in every customer service interaction. Her hard work and dedication to our clients has helped create a company culture that puts our firm a step above the rest. Her responsibilities include overseeing client relations and service, as well as working with clients one on one to cater to their individual needs. She puts a high focus on ensuring clients have a positive experience.
In addition, Judy is also a registered representative, which enables her to work closely with clients on a variety of customer service initiatives. She is in charge of the preparation of paperwork, maintaining the company database, and implementing office procedures to ensure the office runs efficiently.
Judy enjoys keeping active through daily exercise workouts such as cardio, weight training, and enjoying scenic walks in her community. She also enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren and helping them achieve their own personal goals.
Chris Beninati
Chief Relationship Manager
Chris Beninati is a seasoned professional in the financial realm, serving as the Chief Relationship Manager at Heritage Financial Advisory. With a keen focus on client management and development, Chris excels in navigating the intricacies of client relationships, ensuring their needs and wants are not only met but exceeded. He plays a pivotal role in the on-boarding process, seamlessly integrating new clients into the Heritage family while identifying growth opportunities for existing ones.
Chris's influence extends to the investment committee, where his insights and expertise guide strategic decisions. He is renowned for spearheading communication models that prioritize high-quality and prompt service, ensuring that clients receive personalized attention and tailored solutions. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that no client requirement goes unaddressed.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Chris is deeply involved in philanthropy and community service. As a member of the executive leadership team at the American Heart Association, he is dedicated to promoting cardiovascular health and awareness. He is also an active member of the Southampton and Three Village Historical Societies and is passionate about preserving and celebrating local heritage.
In his leisure time, Chris indulges in his intellectual pursuits, delving into the history of the Second World War and the lives of the Founding Fathers. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoys unwinding on the golf course or tennis court, which helps him find balance between his diverse interests and commitments.
Teddy
Chief Happiness Officer
As Chief Happiness Officer, Teddy provides the Heritage team and client’s positive vibes and cheer with his joyful nature and eagerness to interact with everyone.
He loves walks on the beach and playing with his toys. Teddy currently resides with the Desepoli family and when he is not in the office, he primarily works from home.
