Skip to content

2026 SPEAKER LINEUP

The 2026 Exit Planning Summit features a variety of industry experts and exit planning thought leaders for introductory to advanced exit planning sessions.

 

James Taylor

James Taylor, CFP®, is a seasoned financial advisor with nearly two decades of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s financial complexities with clarity and confidence. He began his professional journey in 2005, starting in...

ABOUT JAMES

James Taylor, CFP®, is a seasoned financial advisor with nearly two decades of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s financial complexities with clarity and confidence. He began his professional journey in 2005, starting in insurance and risk management. Over time, James realized he wanted to play a more meaningful and ongoing role in people’s financial lives. That insight led him to transition into comprehensive financial planning in 2011—an evolution that aligned with his desire to build long-term relationships and guide clients through every phase of life.


Most recently, James has served as a trusted advisor at Mercer Advisors, working with a broad spectrum of clients, including retirees, federal employees, and business owners. He helps clients navigate a wide range of financial decisions, from retirement and tax planning to business transitions and legacy strategies. James is passionate about helping people align their financial choices with what matters most to them—offering both structure and clarity as they pursue long-term success and peace of mind.


James’s unique blend of experience across insurance, investments, and wealth management gives him a well-rounded perspective that benefits every client he serves. He has held multiple roles at respected firms across the financial services industry, where he honed his skills in portfolio design, tax-sensitive planning, and client communication. His approach is grounded in clarity, structure, and compassion—empowering clients to make informed decisions and move confidently toward the future they envision.


A strong believer in the power of education, James graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Arizona State University. He holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation, reflecting his commitment to the highest standards of ethics and professional excellence. He stays current on financial planning strategies, tax laws, and market developments to ensure the advice he provides is timely, relevant, and grounded in sound reasoning.


James is known for his ability to distill complex financial concepts into simple, actionable guidance. He values transparency, consistent communication, and building lasting relationships based on trust. Whether helping a business owner prepare for succession or guiding a family through retirement planning, James brings a calm, focused presence and a genuine desire to see others succeed.


Outside of work, James finds joy in spending time with his wife, Tanya, and their two children. Together, they enjoy everything Arizona has to offer—from backyard barbecues to outdoor adventures in the desert. James is also a musician, a youth sports coach, and a lifelong learner who believes the best advisors are those who stay curious, stay humble, and stay truly invested in the lives of the people they serve.


He is proud to call Arizona home and grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in his community—one relationship at a time.

HAVE QUESTIONS? WE'RE HERE TO HELP