ALLIANCE | About Us

Theodore Roosevelt said “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.”

That’s why Planning Matters.  We want you to get up each day knowing that you have a team working for you – that you don’t have to worry about the details because your team has it covered.

MIKE BALLARD is an experienced financial strategist who has worked in this industry since 1978.  He has developed an approach to comprehensive planning that is intensely focused on you. He ensures the team understands the financial intricacies that are required for you to achieve your goals. He is personally committed to getting you to the right spot.

Mike takes a strategic approach with every client. He knows each client's risk tolerance in relation to achieving their goals, maintaining their lifestyle and realizing their dreams. He manages responsibly and understands the value of partnerships.

As the former President and CEO of a wholly owned subsidiary of a publicly traded company, Mike understands the pressures of the everyday work world.  That experience also helps him see the 'big picture' while focusing his attention on your specific goals and objectives.

Mike is a Registered Principal and holds Series 24, 7, 63, 65 and 6 licenses.

GREG LAWRENCE began his career in financial services in 1999, and has always acted as an Independent Advisor, placing the goals and concerns of his clients as his top priority.  Greg remains committed to educating his clients and developing strategies designed to help them achieve their personal and professional objectives - now and in the future.  He understands that there is a universe of investment vehicles and you have to have a partner who imparts knowledge and instills confidence so you are comfortable with your course.

As a former Marine, Greg understands the importance of discipline. Discipline helps ensure no detail is overlooked. There is great pride in the level of professionalism attached to every task – and the personal attention he gives to every client.  As a husband and father of two, he understands the importance of planning for the future so you have the peace of mind that  your loved ones are protected.

Greg holds a Series 7 and Series 66 license as well as a life and health insurance license. He is also an Accredited Agent of the Veterans’ Administration.

CATHERINE WATKINS joined the firm in 2004. She understands that it is vital to have all the I’s dotted and T’s crossed. Catherine ensures the right documents are in place for each transaction. She serves as the liaison to our carriers and has an established relationship with each one so we can ensure a seamless implementation of your financial strategy.

As a candidate for Juris Doctor, Catherine understands the importance of staying on top of changes in legislation that may impact our clients. Changes come quickly in a tax, regulatory and investment environment, and it is critical to keep our clients well informed so proactive decisions can be made.

MARY BALLARD  ensures all client files are maintained in compliance with FINRA standards, and she helps facilitate firm audits that serve as an additional measure of safety for our clients. In addition, Mary  helps ensure that client information remains up to date in our databases.

Mary also serves as  administrator for the Alabama Eldercare Planning Council, a not for profit organization whose mission is to serve as a resource for families dealing with the special issues facing Alabama's seniors.