Our Service 1st culture: Recognizing those who go above and beyond
Named after our firm’s founder, the Robert A. James Award of Service Excellence program recognizes associates who embody our Service 1st culture and live our core values of putting clients first, acting with integrity, thinking long term and valuing independence.
Congratulations to the following associates and teams who were recently recognized for their exemplary service in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025.
Ali Kanaan | Internal Product Specialist – Investment Solutions | St. Petersburg, FL
Ali Kanaan (pictured here with current CEO Paul Shoukry and one of the firm’s former CEOs Tom James) has proven his ability to go above and beyond his normal duties, delivering world-class service to clients. When an advisor or branch professional calls with a question, he won’t give up until their question has been answered completely and to their satisfaction. This sometimes involves calling other departments, contacting fund partners and external vendors and, if needed, reaching back out to the advisor after researching a topic with an analyst. Even days after the initial conversation, Ali always ensures that he follows up if more relevant information comes to light.
An exemplary associate, he shows advisors what we mean when we talk about Service 1st and has very quickly built strong rapport with several advisors and branches who reach out to him directly.
Despite being relatively new to the firm, there have been no less than a dozen advisors who have contacted the department directly to share their appreciation for Ali’s great work and dedication to the firm. With his hard-working, dedicated, detail-oriented and kind nature, he is clearly leaving an impression on the advisors with whom he interacts. The impact is an overwhelmingly positive experience for those who call into the Mutual Fund & ETF Research phone line seeking guidance or help. They know they'll be well taken care of.
Constance Romano | Senior Registered Client Service Associate | New York, NY
Constance “Connie” is committed to doing things the right way – no shortcuts, no nonsense. She is the epitome of "let’s get it done right the first time” and lobbies for change when needed. Outside of her job duties, she plays a vital role in her team’s office philanthropic efforts. She is the coordinator of their office Olympics, as well as many charitable events throughout the year. She volunteers to set up, transport items and do whatever is needed to help in this area.
This year in particular, Connie took the initiative to proactively lead multiple projects related to setting up ACHs for clients and reviewing accounts, which resulted in a streamlined process for the advisor and their clients.
Connie continues to demonstrate her commitment to the team, branch, firm and the client experience by remaining dedicated to doing what’s best for clients, all while maintaining a positive attitude.
Melissa Spears | Wire Transfer Associate | Memphis, TN
Melissa works as a part of a five-member wire team out of the Memphis office – a team that handles all incoming and outgoing firm and client wires on an every-business-day basis. During Hurricane Milton, Melissa and her manager were the only associates available to step up and perform all the duties of what’s typically handled by a team of five. Understanding there were likely going to be challenges with associate availability early on due to the storm, the team collaborated on a game plan that if carried out correctly would ensure coverage. As a result of their well-thought-out plan of action, teamwork, attention to detail and constant communication, Melissa assisted and guided through two consecutive and demanding 12-hour days of successful and accurate production.
Melissa's commitment to this "herculean effort," coupled with her never-give-up attitude, allowed the team to successfully handle all aspects of wire team processing for hundreds of transactions – with absolutely no fall-out and no drop off in service levels for branches and clients. While both days were quite taxing, the end result was a seamless experience for clients during a stressful time for all those affected by the hurricane.
Thank you to our dedicated associates for their continued Service 1st commitment!
About the Robert A. James Award of Service Excellence
The Robert A. James Award of Service Excellence is an internal Raymond James recognition delivered to individual employees or teams. Established in 2014, The Robert A. James Award of Service Excellence recognizes associates who embody the Raymond James values and uphold our commitment to service through their exemplary actions. Nominations are accepted on a rolling basis and the nomination committee composed of 11 firm leaders awards the distinction quarterly. This may not be representative of any one client’s experience, it’s not an endorsement, and is not indicative of future performance. No fee was paid in exchange for this award/rating.