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®

Registered Client Associate
858-764-3810

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 loves spending time with her three beautiful grandchildren. 

After more than thirty years of having a successful career in financial services and investment management, Lilly is in the process of retiring. She has served generations of client families by providing comprehensive advise with insight, care, and compassion. Lilly will continue to be an important part of the team as Registered Client Associate during this transition, while entrusting her valued clients to the Guardtower team. She is looking forward to enjoying her retirement traveling, volunteering, and being with friends and family. 

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.

Zach Schuler

Client Services Associate
858-764-3800

Zach strives to bring fresh perspectives and authentic service to each client interaction. His experiences in the customer service industry have strengthened his knack for connecting with people and developed his drive to foster quality client relationships. Zach is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business economics and finance at UC San Diego. Throughout his studies, extracurricular involvement, and time under the mentorship of Daniel and Richard, Zach has developed a passion for the financial industry and helping clients achieve their personal and financial goals. Zach is proud to assist the Guardtower team by equipping them with actionable insights to guide clients towards fulfilling their goals.

Outside of the office, Zach plays on the UCSD rugby team and is a member of UCSD’s Student Foundation Investment Committee, where he monitors an endowment portfolio that awards thousands in student scholarships each year. Zach is a proud San Diegan and enjoys outdoor adventures, exercising at the gym, and experimenting in the kitchen.