Our Approach

As a corporate leader, business owner or key decision-maker, your compensation offers compelling opportunities for wealth-building, along with specific tax and timing constraints. Successfully navigating this landscape requires in-depth knowledge and specialized strategies. Yet many executives lack the time and focus needed to manage their wealth.

Our experienced team understands the intricacies of equity compensation—and the demands of a thriving career. We focus on C-suite executives, owners of closely held businesses and private company partners, managing their wealth so they can manage their business. Our approach integrates deferred, restricted and equity compensation into your financial plan to maximize the opportunities while adhering to the constraints.
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Strategic management of equity compensation

Your compensation is multifaceted, made up of salary, deferred compensation, equity options and restricted stock. This presents certain challenges, including compensation risk and irregular cash flows. As an insider, blackout periods can affect your long-term investment strategy. For more than 20 years, we have helped successful corporate leaders design smart strategies to manage their complex compensation.

We offer deep experience with:
• Cash flow planning
• Tax-advantaged options strategies
• Deferred and restricted compensation management

For corporate insiders, we can design 10b5-1 trading plans that allow you to diversify concentrated stock positions, trade during blackout periods and maintain an affirmative defense against insider trading charges.
Your tax situation requires specialized knowledge. We can connect you with a leading global accounting firm. This formal referral relationship allows us to coordinate all aspects of your situation and ensure that your wealth is managed as tax-efficiently as possible.
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    Diversification Strategies for Public Company Executives
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    Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) Exclusion
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Financial planning services and equity plan administration for public and private companies

Your leadership team needs financial planning support that frees them to concentrate on building shareholder value. Your stock plan participants need education to help them maximize the value of their options.
We offer an end-to-end solution that can help you attract and retain talented executives and employees. We understand the important role that executive compensation plans play into overall wealth strategy— particularly for senior executives who have more complex financial circumstances and rewards.

We support executives by offering:
• Sophisticated retirement and cash flow planning
• 10b5-1 plan administration and concentrated equity position guidance, including effective Incentive Stock Option (ISO) swap execution
• Equity Plan Advisory Services

We can assist your company with stock option plan administration and reinvestment. We also provide your employees with education and advice to help them get the most out of their equity awards while strengthening their ties to the company. We call it the multiplier effect.

Personal wealth management and legacy planning

The wealth you’ve built requires experienced stewardship and a plan for the future. That includes custom portfolio management, wealth transfer strategies, philanthropic advice and proactive tax planning.
Our approach can help you organize your financial life into three key dimensions: Liquidity—to help provide cash flow for short-term expenses, Longevity—for longer-term needs and Legacy—for needs that go beyond your own. Through the plan we create together, we can help you pursue what matters most today, tomorrow and for generations to come.


We take the time to understand you and your family, asking thoughtful questions about where you want your wealth to take you. Our planning- based approach seeks to address your entire financial picture, including:

• Concentrated equity positions
• Retirement income planning
• Investment management
• Wealth transfer strategies
• Estate and income tax exposure
• Life insurance solutions
• Charitable giving strategies

Our team includes advisors with advanced designations that enable us to go deeper into your plan and your portfolio. We will coordinate with your tax advisor, your estate attorney and other members of your team to ensure that everything is working in harmony.

    MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR EQUITY

    We make it our goal to demystify equity compensation so that you can make the most of yours. To learn more about the basics of equity compensation, the different types of compensation packages from stock options to ESPPs, and different ways you can leverage your compensation within your larger wealth management strategy - consider exploring some of the resources below.

    WORKPLACE FINANCIAL BENEFITS WITH MORGAN STANLEY AT WORK

    Our mission is to help your company elevate your workplace financial benefits—helping you to attract and retain top talent. Our end-to-end solutions support your company and employees at any stage of growth through a powerful combination of modern technology, insightful guidance, and dedicated service.

      Equity Solutions

      Equity ownership is a powerful motivator. Streamline equity management through our leading-edge technology and provide global audit-ready reporting and insights, alongside customizable participant experiences to engage and educate your employees on how to make the most of their benefits. Our global solutions support private and public companies at any stage of growth.

      • Equity Administration and Financial Reporting
      • Liquidity Events
      • 409A Valuation Services and Cap Table Management

      Learn more
      Retirement

      For your employees, retirement is more than a date in the future—it's a milestone that takes time, hard work, and the right tools. Through our consultative process, we strive to assist with the management of your fiduciary responsibilities and risk, simplify plan management, and help you improve retirement readiness for your employees.

      • Defined Contribution Consulting
      • Solutions-Oriented Plans
      • Fiduciary Investment Oversight

      Learn more
      Deferred Compensation

      Access a range of Nonqualified Deferred Compensation plan services or pick the ones that best fit your needs. We provide recordkeeping and plan design, portfolio construction services, and plan education for your executive talent. We help you determine the appropriate plan design and inform a funding strategy through a needs-based assessment and consultative approach.

      Services include:

      • Recordkeeping and Plan Design
      • Portfolio Construction
      • Wealth Management Services
      Learn more
      Executive Services

      Our dedicated team provides concierge-level support for your executives' equity compensation plans, from 10b5-1 trading plans to form filing related to Rule 144 transactions, to access to wealth management and tax-optimization strategies, so helping them navigate their complex financial needs with greater confidence and certainty:

      • Equity Compensation Services
      • Equity Award Analysis
      • Specialized Solutions
      Learn more
      Saving and Giving

      Saving and Giving benefits can make a real difference in your employees' lives as they can support the things that matter most to them—like saving for education and repaying student loans. Show that you are committed to your employees' priorities with leading-edge solutions that help them chart a path toward financial well-being.

      • College Savings
      • Student Loan Repayment and Refinancing
      • Charitable Giving
      Learn more
      Financial Wellness

      We offer Financial Wellness with every solution we provide. Through a powerful combination of education, digital tools and guidance, Financial Wellness is designed to address the unique needs of your employees and empower their financial journey at every stage. Give your employees the confidence to take charge of their finances.

      • Financial Education
      • Digital Tools
      • Financial Guidance

      Learn more

    Location

    28 State Street 35th
    Fl
    Boston, MA 02109
    US
    Direct:
    (617) 478-6502(617) 478-6502

    Meet The Bankhead Group

    About John Bankhead

    John Bankhead is a Managing Director, Senior Portfolio Management Director, and Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley. Beginning his career in 1991, he is the founder of The Bankhead Group and has built a reputation for guiding corporate executives, wealthy families, and founders/early investors through the complexities of wealth management.

    With over three decades of experience, John specializes in providing comprehensive financial strategies that address both investment management and long-term planning needs. He holds the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠ (CRPC®) designation and received a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Bentley University. He is Series 7, 66 and insurance licensed.

    Beyond his professional work, John serves as a National Trustee of The First Tee, reflecting his commitment to empowering the next generation through education and character development. Also, he is very involved in Morgan Stanley’s support of Home Base and The Run to Home Base. He divides his time between Boston, MA and Bluffton, SC, balancing his work with family and community involvement. Outside of work, he enjoys golf, fishing and spending time with his two sons, Jack and Alex.
    Securities Agent: VT, IL, VA, TN, NC, MN, ME, ID, NJ, NY, GA, FL, DC, SC, IA, DE, CT, MD, CO, AL, TX, PA, IN, RI, OR, MI, CA, WA, WI, OH, NH, AZ, NV, MA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
    NMLS#: 1990785

    About Brian Gormley

    Brian Gormley is a First Vice President, Portfolio Management Director and Financial Advisor with the Bankhead Group at Morgan Stanley. With over 10 years of experience, he focuses on investment management and comprehensive financial planning. As both a CFA® charterholder and a CFP® professional, Brian brings a disciplined and client-focused approach to wealth management, helping executives, founders, and early investors navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. His specialties include 10b5-1 plan design & implementation, Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) planning, estate/trust structuring, and tax-minimization strategies.

    Brian holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance and a Master’s degree in Finance from Bentley University. He is also Series 7 and Series 66 licensed. Drawing on this strong academic foundation and more than a decade of experience, he partners with clients to design tailored strategies that align with their long-term goals, whether it’s growing wealth, preserving assets, or planning for retirement.

    Brian is originally from Buffalo, NY but now resides in Andover, MA. He lives with his wife Jocelyn, son Grayson, and golden retriever Jameson. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, traveling, playing hockey, and following his favorite Buffalo professional sports teams.
    Securities Agent: RI, NJ, VA, IA, FL, NH, NC, DE, OR, NY, NV, MO, MA, TN, SC, MD, CA, WI, PA, MI, ME, ID, CT, AZ, GA, DC, CO, OH, AL, WA, MN, VT, IN, IL, TX; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
    NMLS#: 2287498

    About Jamie Schulman

    Jamie joined The Bankhead Group in 2017 and serves as a Senior Registered Client Service Associate at Morgan Stanley. In this role, she plays a pivotal part in delivering a high-touch client experience, working closely with individuals and families to support all facets of their financial lives. Jamie oversees the team’s client service matrix and financial planning schedule, ensuring seamless coordination and execution.

    With a strong focus on operational excellence, Jamie manages the day-to-day servicing needs of the team's client base, including the administration of retirement income strategies and cash flow distributions. She builds and maintains enduring relationships through proactive communication and a deep commitment to client success. Jamie also guides new clients through the onboarding and account transfer process, providing detailed orientation on Morgan Stanley’s digital tools and comprehensive banking and lending solutions.

    Known for her client-centric approach, Jamie is proud to contribute to The Bankhead Group’s exceptional client retention rate. Her dedication to service and attention to detail continue to elevate the client experience across all touchpoints.

    Jamie holds a B.S in Finance from Bentley University. She resides in South Boston with her husband, Ross, and their Labradoodle, Henry. Originally from Cape Cod, she enjoys boating, reading on the beach, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

    Jamie holds her Series 7, 66 and insurance licenses.

    About Trevor Ryan Davis

    As an Associate Vice President/Wealth Management Associate and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Trevor assists in advising clients as they build and preserve their wealth. Trevor works closely with the partners and utilizes Morgan Stanley’s advanced planning resources to implement customized investment and retirement solutions.

    Trevor leads the financial planning aspect of the practice. He takes time to listen to clients and their families’ multi-generational goals and helps to develop strategies to achieve those goals. Trevor will regularly connect and collaborate with external tax/legal advisors to build and maintain integrated cash flow and legacy plans. Along with leading planning, he also supports risk management and asset allocation reviews to ensure that client portfolios are consistent with long term objectives.

    In partnership with Brian Gormley CFA, CFP® and Morgan Stanley’s Executive Financial Services Team, Trevor serves corporate insiders to responsibly manage concentrated equity positions under SEC rule 10b5-1. He leverages the team’s expertise, and helps executives to monetize their non-cash compensation in an efficient manner while maintaining safe harbor.

    Trevor also leads equity participant education and marketing efforts for The Bankhead Group. He proactively monitors public policy and relevant educational topics.

    Trevor earned a B.S. in Economics with a concentration in finance from Tufts University, where he was a member of the Varsity hockey team. He currently resides in South Boston. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing, mountain biking, playing hockey, and spending time with family and friends.
    Securities Agent: MA, WY, WV, VT, UT, OR, NM, NJ, MT, IA, CA, TN, OH, NE, KY, ID, WI, SD, NV, NH, MI, IN, GA, CO, WA, MD, LA, FL, AL, VA, MN, ME, IL, DC, CT, NY, KS, SC, PR, HI, AK, ND, MS, MO, VI, TX, RI, OK, NC, DE, AZ, AR, PA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

    About Erin Carr

    Erin joined the Bankhead Group in 2022 and serves as a Registered Client Service Associate. In her role, she works closely with both clients and stock plan participants to proactively identify their needs, as well as provide guidance through the 10b5-1 plan process.

    Erin plays a key role in managing the operational functions of the practice, efficiently processing client requests and inquiries. She oversees client outreach and works to ensure that all client information remains accurate and up to date. Erin is also responsible for all operational aspects of 10b5-1 plans, including plan coordination, trade notifications, and settlement. She provides ongoing communication and dedicated support to stock plan participants, helping them navigate the complexities of the 10b5-1 execution process.

    Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Erin worked as a Senior Business Development & Client Service Associate at DDJ Capital Management where she was responsible for supporting the distribution team with client, consultant, and prospect relationships.

    Erin received her B.S. in Finance from Bentley University and she holds her Series 7, 66 and insurance licenses. She currently resides in Billerica. Outside of the office she enjoys cooking, going to the beach, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
    Wealth Management
    From Our Team

    Inside the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) Exclusion


    Wealth Management
    Global Investment Office

    Portfolio Insights

    This is a video content

    Equity Compensation

    Helping you make the most of your equity awards and better understand how it may fit into your your larger financial picture – today and tomorrow.

    • Vesting events
    • Option expirations
    • Restricted stock units
    • Tax implications

    Retirement

    Working with you to understand your life goals and develop a personalized wealth strategy. Today and for the years to come.
    • 401(k) Rollovers
    • IRA Plans
    • Retirement income strategies
    • Retirement plan participants
    • Annuities
    A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup
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    A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup

    Checking in on your retirement plan may make a lot of sense, especially when market volatility arises.

    Investing

    Working closely with you to guide your wealth and investments through the most challenging market cycles.
    • Asset Management
    • Wealth Planning
    • Traditional Investments
    • Alternative Investments
    • Impact Investing
    Rational Investing in an Age of Uncertainty
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    Rational Investing in an Age of Uncertainty

    When it comes to investing, even the most savvy of us fall prey to bias and emotional trades. So what triggers should you watch for?

    Family

    Creating customized financial strategies for the challenges that today’s families face.
    • Estate Planning Strategies
    • 529 Plans / Education Savings Planning
    • Long Term Care Insurance
    • Special Needs Planning
    • Trust Services
    529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education
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    529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education

    Though education costs continue to climb, starting to save and invest early can make a difference.

    Business Planning

    Helping you on key aspects of your business such as ownership, liquidity and developing opportunities.
    • Succession Planning
    • Business Planning
    • Qualified Retirement Plans
    Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business
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    Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business

    Selling your business can mean big changes for your life, both personally and financially. Know how to make the most of your windfall.

    Philanthropy

    Making sure your philanthropic dollars are managed with the same high quality service as the rest of your wealth.
    • Endowments
    • Foundations
    • Donor Advised Funds
    • Impact Investing
    Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving
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    Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving

    There's more to charitable giving than you may realize. Here's one method that may be a tax-efficient way to give and can help maximize your impact.

    Financial Wellness

    Enhancing Financial Wellness enables your workforce to do their best work. Companies that invest in financial wellness have an opportunity to:
    • Reduce employee stress,
    • Improve retention and engagement, and
    • Set themselves apart by offering comprehensive financial wellness benefits.
    The Business Case for a Financially Resilient Workforce
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    The Business Case for a Financially Resilient Workforce

    In the face of turbulent markets, the word “resilience” may be top of mind. Broadly speaking, resilience is the ability to “bounce back” when encountering life’s inevitable challenges.
    Ready to start a conversation? Contact The Bankhead Group today.
    CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

    Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.

    The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.

    Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
    https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.

    The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.

    Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.

    Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.

    The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.

    *References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.

    CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

    The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney.  The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.

    Awards Disclosures | Morgan Stanley
    CRC 4665150 (8/2025)