Owensboro’s Drew Watson has been named the No. 1 financial advisor Kentucky by Barron’s, a publication covering business and finance. Along with the top award for the state, he was named to the nationwide list of “Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors.”
The annual Barron’s list recognizes the most outstanding financial advisors who represent the highest levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business. Watson was chosen based on assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory record, and quality of practice.
Watson is the CEO of Align Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Watson has served the Owensboro area since 1995.
Watson was born and raised in southern Illinois and graduated from the University of Notre Dame. After college, he found a job in Central City before moving to Owensboro.
For nearly 30 years, Watson and his business partner Travis Chaney built the team at Align Wealth Management. Watson said earning the top advisor spot in Kentucky is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the dedication and hard work of his entire team.
He said the top ranking is a rare feat for an advisor outside the Louisville or Lexington areas, making this achievement all the more significant.
“I’m very humbled, honored, and proud of the fact that we were able to win this award for Owensboro,” Watson said. “This is a great place to work and raise a family. Owensboro, Daviess County, and the surrounding counties mean a lot to me.”
Watson said he couldn’t take sole credit for the accomplishment, attributing the success to his supportive team and loyal clients.
“I really want to thank my family, all of my clients, and my team,” he said. “My parents really instilled in me the value of hard work. I’m also a man of faith. I pray every day, and I know that played a role.”
He said the team strongly emphasizes client service and is seeing significant returns from that investment. He believes the accolade will shed even more light on their comprehensive approach to financial planning.
“I think the word will get out that we operate with a clients-first mentality and create a positive service experience,” Watson said. “When you’re successful, people want to be a part of that. We set the bar very high for ourselves.”
Through a comprehensive approach to financial planning, Watson strongly emphasizes the client experience and wants to ensure he’s there when things happen in their lives. He said he understands “life happens,” so Watson supports clients during life changes like retirement, illness, marriage, divorce, selling a business, and more.
“I’m blessed to have a great team that supports me. It takes everyone to do something this big,” Watson said.
Align Wealth Management has offices in Owensboro and Louisville, as well as in Tennessee and Illinois.