James Harter is a Senior Financial Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, specializing in wealth management services for families and institutions. Since joining Merrill Lynch in 2003, he has focused on delivering a goals-based financial approach tailored to the unique aspirations and needs of his clients. Harter works closely with high-net-worth individuals, business executives, and entrepreneurs to develop integrated strategies that address investment management, retirement income planning, estate planning, tax minimization, and wealth transfer. He emphasizes a disciplined investment process that leverages Merrill Lynch’s global research and resources, alongside personalized lending solutions through Bank of America, N.A.
Harter holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management Information Systems and International Business, as well as a Master of Business Administration, both from Saint Louis University. He has earned the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ designation, reflecting his commitment to retirement planning and wealth preservation strategies. His approach involves collaborating with clients' accounting and legal professionals to customize financial strategies that align with each client’s goals, risk tolerance, and family circumstances.
Outside of his professional role, Harter enjoys spending time with his family and engaging in various sports including baseball, basketball, fishing, golfing, racquetball, skiing, soccer, tennis, and traveling. He resides in Ballwin, Missouri, with his wife and three children.