About Melissa Phillips
With over 25 years of experience in financial services, Melissa Phillips is a patient, personable, and practical Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She has built a distinguished practice catering to professional athletes, entertainers, business professionals, and upper-middle-class families navigating unique financial circumstances. Melissa’s ability to establish trust and identify client needs has led to long-lasting relationships. Her boutique-style service, combined with the vast resources of a global firm, provides clients with a personalized yet comprehensive wealth management experience.
Melissa’s career journey is a testament to her dedication. She began in banking and mortgage lending before transitioning into real estate, specializing in bank-owned properties in Los Angeles. Her sales acumen and deep understanding of financial transactions laid the groundwork for her success in wealth management. She later served as a senior registered client service associate, where she was a relationship manager and supported clients of a top-producing Global Sports and Entertainment Director advising ultra-high-net-worth athletes and entertainers. Opting for a support role allowed her to prioritize family while maintaining her securities licenses and honing her financial planning skills.
Today, Melissa is an empty nester and has partnered and formed The Mid-City Group with the advisor she supported 20 years. Melissa is known for her holistic approach, guiding clients through the complexities of wealth accumulation, preservation, and transition. She is particularly passionate about helping those experiencing sudden wealth, such as rookie athletes, breakout entertainers, and legal settlement recipients. Her approach integrates financial literacy, emotional preparedness, and a long-term strategy, helping to ensure clients make informed decisions that align with their values and goals.
Melissa holds a B.A. in Economics and the following credentials: Series 7, 63, and 65 licenses, Financial Planning Specialist designation, and Life Agent license under the California Department of Insurance.
She resides in Los Angeles with her husband, a second-generation restaurateur, and has a son in college. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, hosting gatherings, attending live performances at The Hollywood Bowl, golfing, Pilates, and traveling. A dedicated room parent, team mom, and served on her local Little League board. Melissa believes in the power of financial education to transform lives and is committed to empowering her clients and community through thoughtful, strategic guidance.
Securities Agent: ID, CA, AR, IL, HI, WA, VT, OR, FL, NY, MD, IN, NJ, NM, ME, SC, DE, VA, MT, TX, PA, GA, NV, DC, CO, MI, OH, NC, MA, AZ; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2150327
CA Insurance License #: 0F48568