James Bertsch is a Financial Advisor and Retirement Benefits Consultant with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, specializing in tailored financial strategies for individuals, businesses, endowments, foundations, and nonprofits. After an 18-plus year career culminating as the Institutional Client Advisor for the state of Oklahoma, he now focuses on bringing institutional discipline to personal financial strategies. He works directly with families, business owners, nonprofit organizations, and retirement plan sponsors, providing disciplined guidance and transparent advice to help clients navigate financial complexities with clarity and confidence.
James holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma and an MBA from Oklahoma City University. He has earned several professional designations including Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA), Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA), Personal Investment Advisor (PIA), and Retirement Benefits Consultant (RBC). His approach reflects a commitment to integrity and a respect for the trust placed in him, values shaped by his faith and upbringing.
Beyond his professional work, James is involved with several community organizations including Crossings Community Church, Rotary Club 29 Oklahoma City, the Arts Council of Oklahoma City, OU President's Associates, and the Oklahoma Zoological Society. He enjoys a variety of personal interests such as baseball, cooking, football, golfing, hiking, reading, skiing, spending time with his family, traveling, and watching movies.