As Chief Investment Officer, Mark leads the investment strategy behind Fathom’s client portfolios and chairs the firm’s investment committee. Much of his work happens behind the scenes, where he researches investment opportunities, evaluates potential risks, and considers how each investment contributes to a diversified portfolio. His goal is to maximize returns for a given level of risk while finding practical ways to keep costs and taxes low. Above all, Mark believes every investment should earn its place in a portfolio based on its own merits.
As a partner and member of Fathom’s leadership committee, Mark also helps guide the firm’s broader direction and contributes to its day-to-day management.
Areas of Specialty
Mark is particularly drawn to complex financial situations where a high degree of customization can uncover opportunities that might otherwise be missed. Rather than viewing a portfolio in isolation, he considers how it can complement a client’s broader balance sheet—a perspective that is especially valuable when clients hold complex instruments. Mark helps them understand the risks and opportunities involved, then considers how those assets should influence the construction and management of the rest of their portfolio.
His Approach
A student of the markets, Mark has a genuine passion for researching the new and complex. Investment products and financial markets are constantly evolving, so he reads voraciously and actively seeks out differing perspectives. This depth of research shapes his communication with clients. He sees it as his responsibility to understand the intricacies of an investment without expecting clients to do the same. Instead, he takes his knowledge and explains it in plain terms, ensuring clients understand the potential benefits, costs, and risks behind each strategy.
Professional Background
Before moving into wealth management, Mark spent four years at Jeffrey Slocum & Associates serving as a senior consultant for institutional investors. That experience gave him firsthand exposure to the rigorous process institutions bring to investment decisions.
In 2016, Mark transitioned to wealth management because he wanted to bring that same level of discipline to individuals and families. He joined Fathom Advisors the following year.
Education & Designations
- Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®)
- Master of Business Administration — University of St. Thomas
- Bachelor of Science — University of North Dakota
- Global Financial Services Study Abroad Program (Shanghai and Hong Kong) — University of St. Thomas
Community Involvement
Mark has been a member of the CFA Society Minnesota since 2016. He also supports the Superior Hiking Trail Association as an avid hiker who regularly enjoys its trail system. His hope is to help preserve Minnesota’s North Woods and ensure others have the opportunity to experience the beauty and power of nature.
Life Outside the Office
Mark grew up in Plymouth and has lived in Lakeville for more than 15 years. He and his wife Angela have two daughters, and at this stage of life, much of Mark’s time is centered around his family and his daughters’ many activities.
Travel is one of the family’s favorite ways to spend time together. Mark strives to be fully present in those experiences and especially enjoys watching his daughters discover new places, foods, and cultures.