Richard A. Gibson, Jr., CRC®, AIF®

Founding Partner
858-764-3803

Richard’s mission is to create a collaborative relationship with clients to guard and grow their personal and family wealth through the creation and implementation of a financial plan. He considers it the greatest of honors to serve and coach others to their financial success and act as a consultant to them and their families. As a former educator and a 22-year veteran of the financial services industry, Richard is an advocate for client education and empowerment who strives to foster a professional relationship of trust and candor. Prior to his seven years in private practice as a wealth manager through LPL Financial, Richard served clients at Wells Fargo Advisors, UnionBanc Investment Services, US Bancorp Investments and Prudential Securities.

Richard counts among his hobbies outdoor recreation, fitness and travel to locations famed for fine wine and craft beer. Prior to joining the financial services industry Richard served three years as a high school history and economics teacher, following his passion to mentor and educate others. He earned his bachelor’s degree in U.S. History from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, graduating Magna Cum Laude.

 

CRC conferred by InFRE®.

Daniel E. Torreblanca, CFP®

Founding Partner
858-764-3802

Daniel believes that financial planning and comprehensive wealth management are of utmost importance so you can enjoy the experiences that life is really about. Daniel is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional (CFP®) who works with individuals and families to help them clearly lay out the path they want to follow towards achieving financial peace of mind. Through a high level of attention to client needs, Daniel has built strong and long-lasting relationships with clients who actively refer friends and family. Daniel’s CFP® designation has given him the tools necessary to craft comprehensive plans and to stay informed of the different needs that come with planning for life’s stages.

Daniel was a pre-med student and conducted biomedical research with the National Institutes of Health and Veteran’s Administration. He ultimately found his passion and holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of California San Diego. Daniel has over 10 years of experience in the financial services industry, beginning with Wells Fargo and progressing to private practice through LPL Financial, ultimately co-founding Guardtower Financial Services. Daniel is originally from Mexico City but has been a San Diegan and Padres fan most of his life. He currently lives in Mission Valley with his wife, Grace, a baby on the way, and their two Shih Tzus. Daniel is a big foodie who enjoys cooking, loves fine wine, is passionate about history and traveling.

Lilly Emerson, CRPC®

Partner, Wealth Advisor
858-764-3810

When it comes to managing your money, it is important to feel comfortable with the person you are entrusting to help guide you to greater wealth. Would a referral from a successful family member or close friend make the difference? For generations of Lilly Emerson’s clients, this has been a deciding factor. Lilly provides comprehensive advice with insight, care, and compassion greatly appreciated by her family, friends and multi-generational clients.

While providing services for today and the future, Lilly is comfortably able to work closely with clients’ accountants, attorneys, and other advisors. With Lilly Emerson’s guidance, you and your family can strategize and invest for added income and tax protection while creating retirement plans that also allow you to do the things you want to do now. Isn’t it nice to know you can live your life and leave your legacy the way you envision?

As a veteran of the US Air Force, Lilly served as a Mandarin Chinese interpreter. As a mother of two, she learned the importance of making wealth accumulation and management a way of life. She is a world traveler and adventurer and an active “Mia” to her three beautiful grandchildren. Lilly says that she is proud of and loves the life that she created for herself and her family. She very much looks forward to helping YOU create the life and legacy you desire.

Juan R. Nevarez

Client Services Associate
858-764-3800

Juan’s mission throughout his career has been to help people achieve the best version of themselves. Juan joined the financial services industry after a career in the non-profit/social work sector, where he served as Director of Patient Advocacy for the County of San Diego, Director of Mental Health for assisted living facilities, and Operations Manager for treatment centers. In an attempt to propel his career to the next level, Juan began working toward a graduate degree. During his studies, he fell in love with finance in general and a potential future in the financial services industry. Juan is an important part of the Guardtower team; by assisting Richard, Daniel, and Lilly, the team can become more capable of guiding clients towards their personal and financial goals. 

He is a born and raised San Diegan living in Chula Vista with his wife (Marianna), daughter (Sofia), and their cat (Blue). In addition to time with his family, Juan loves to eat Sushi as well as competing in the sports of soccer, golf, and jiu-jitsu.