Investing in the Future: Endeavor Private Wealth

By Kim Gronninger
Photos by Brian Peters

With a new headquarters, Endeavor Private Wealth is creating space for continued growth, stronger client relationships and the next generation of leadership.

In May, Endeavor Private Wealth opened its new headquarters at 2951 SW Woodside Drive. Having outgrown its previous location, Endeavor found a property it could reconfigure to better serve clients and advisors.

Chris McGee, managing partner for Endeavor Private Wealth, said, “We created a friendly environment that reflects the care, intentionality and professionalism that defines every relationship we build. The space aligns with where we are today and allows for future expansion.”

DESIGNED WITH CLIENTS IN MIND

Chris said clients have been enthusiastic about the new space, and some even postponed their April annual reviews so they could check the building in addition to reviewing their financial goals.

“I thought clients would be happy with what we’ve done, but their incredibly positive response has been extremely rewarding,” he said. “Also, whatever age you are, the convenience of being 15 steps from our front door is a great thing.”

The renovation, completed in partnership with Murray & Sons and Architect One, focused on creating privacy, comfort and accessibility. The project involved reworking the previous floor plan, including removing and adding walls. The updates doubled client meeting space to six rooms of varying sizes, accommodating clients of different ages and abilities.

MANAGING WEALTH HOLISTICALLY

Rather than focusing narrowly on investment performance, Chris said the firm takes a broader approach to a client’s overall financial plan.

“Each client’s situation is different,” Chris said. “We spend however much time it takes to understand what our clients value, what they need and what they want for their future. Then we apply our knowledge, experience and judgment, along with insights and guidance from our trusted tax, legal and business advisors, to develop solutions and strategies to help them achieve their goals.”

Chris characterized many Endeavor clients as busy professionals, executives, business owners and retirees who want to delegate some of the responsibility for their retirement strategy and legacy planning. Whether they’re seeking advice on capital markets, legacy planning, borrowing strategies or long-term family objectives, Chris said the firm’s role is to help clients make informed decisions that preserve and grow wealth over generations.

“It’s a huge act of trust for someone to open the door to the intricacies of what encompasses their financial world and know that an advisor will be working for their best interest,” he said. “Our goal is to provide clarity and confidence across their journey.”

The firm uses a framework comprising four cornerstones: investment planning, borrowing and liabilities, risk management and trust, and estates.

“We view wealth holistically,” Chris said. “There are hundreds of do-it-yourself online calculators, but they can’t do what we can. Our goals-based planning can improve upon even the most sophisticated spreadsheet or internet resource to create a clear, cohesive and consolidated picture of an individual’s unique situation. We’re not attorneys or bankers, but we have a deep knowledge of how things can impact client wealth and the issues and opportunities they need to be aware of.”

BUILDING A PLATFORM FOR ADVISORS

In addition to serving private clients, Endeavor has built an advisor platform. The firm offers both W-2 and 1099 affiliation models, providing advisors flexibility and access to institutional-grade infrastructure to build their careers.

While the Topeka office remains focused on direct client relationships, it also provides technology resources, operational support and strategic guidance to assist advisors in Overland Park, Boulder and Denver with their practices.

“Our platform strategy and technology stack are designed for advisors who think like business owners,” Chris said. “We provide the strategic support that allows them to maintain independence at every stage of their career.”

CREATING A CULTURE OF OWNERSHIP

Chris knew in college that he wanted a career in the financial industry, but how he got there was more a matter of chance. As a freshman at Washburn University in 1996, he took a visiting lecturer up on an invitation to visit his office and learn more about his work.

“Over lunch, he told me I was the first person to ever follow up on the offer,” he said. “He needed someone to do some grunt work for a short time and I just stayed. I loved working with people and enjoyed the challenge of not only running a business but also providing an important service.”

Chris said his management style is “to lead by example and create an environment where people feel respected, supported, challenged and empowered to take ownership of their roles. We have good one-on-one relationships with each other and our clients.”

Endeavor Private Wealth employs a team of 15: nine in Topeka, two in Overland Park, three in Boulder and one in Denver.

“We’re building for the future,” Chris said. “We want to help more families achieve long-term financial confidence while creating a platform where exceptional advisors can build meaningful, enduring businesses of their own.”