Laguna Niguel Branch Office

Robert M. Rettig is a seasoned Associate Market Manager and Executive Director at Morgan Stanley, where he oversees Wealth Management offices across the South Coast Market in the Western Region at the Laguna Niguel Branch. With a career in financial services that began in 1999, Robert has developed a robust expertise in financial strategy and client advisory.

Since joining Morgan Stanley, Robert has held several key leadership roles. From July 2020 to November 2024, he served as the Associate Market Manager in Newport Beach, California, where he was responsible for the overall management of the complex, focusing on employee retention, risk management, revenue growth, and client service excellence. Prior to this, he was the Associate Regional Manager for the Central Region, based in Scottsdale, AZ, where he led sales operations across five financial complexes and played a pivotal role in talent recruitment. Earlier in his career, Robert was the Regional Manager for the Great Lakes and Southeast Regions, where he directed business development activities, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance, including being named Regional Manager of the Year in both 2013 and 2014.

Robert's career also includes experience as a Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch, where he honed his skills in client advisory and financial strategy. Residing in Irvine, California, Robert is deeply committed to community service, volunteering with organizations focused on aiding the underprivileged both in the United States and abroad. In his personal time, he enjoys motorcycle riding, scuba diving, and traveling, reflecting his adventurous spirit and love for exploration.

Based in the Laguna Niguel Branch Office, Yvette R. Juarez serves as Vice President and Business Service Manager at Morgan Stanley. A native of Southern California, Yvette brings a deep understanding of the importance of culture and people to the strength of a company. This passion for talent and team-building is a common thread woven through her distinguished three-decade career in finance.

Yvette began her journey in the industry in 1991, starting in new accounts. She built a solid foundation in operations before earning her securities licenses and advancing into leadership roles. Today, she is instrumental in recruiting new talent, providing employee coaching, and managing the firm’s internship program. Her dedication to fostering an inclusive, supportive work environment is further exemplified by her active roles as a Western Region Diversity & Inclusion Service Council Ambassador and a mentor for Morgan Stanley Pride and Ally.

Outside of her professional commitments, Yvette enjoys spending time with her Great Dane, Fiona, volunteering, gaming, and exploring her creative passions. Her multifaceted interests and extreme dedication to her team make her a valuable asset to Morgan Stanley, as well as a respected leader in her field.

Based in the Laguna Niguel Branch Office, Matthew Owens is a Risk Officer at Morgan Stanley, bringing nearly two decades of experience in the financial services industry. Since beginning his career in 2005, Matthew has developed comprehensive expertise in client management, compliance, and strategic risk oversight. His career path includes significant roles such as Private Client Associate at Wells Fargo and Financial Advisor at J.P. Morgan Chase, where he honed his skills in financial advisory and client relations.

In 2022, Matthew joined Morgan Stanley as a Risk Officer, where he applies his extensive knowledge to enhance risk management strategies and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. His role is pivotal in safeguarding the firm's interests while supporting its growth objectives.

Based in Southern California, Matthew is passionate about exploring diverse cuisines and enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends. He is also an avid traveler, always eager to discover new destinations and cultures.

Based in the Laguna Niguel Branch Office, Almesia serves as Branch Administrator at Morgan Stanley. She is a dedicated professional with a strong passion for collaboration, consistently offering insights and resources to support others in achieving their goals.

During the strategic merger between Morgan Stanley and Smith Barney, she played a pivotal role as a Senior Field Trainer, ensuring a seamless transition for the field. Her dedication coupled with expertise have been evident throughout her more than ten-year tenure at Morgan Stanley, where she has steadily advanced her career.

On a personal note, Almesia is married to her high school sweetheart and finds joy in exploring new destinations—always on the lookout for memorable sunsets and positive experiences.