Nina O’Neal

Partner and Investment Advisor, Archer Investment Management 

After growing up in a small farming community in NC, I wanted to move to a big city after college, so I chose NYC upon graduation from UNC-CH in 2003.   I began my career in the financial industry in with an institutional investment firm, serving as the liaison between the clients and the firm, managing large pensions and endowments.  It was a wonderful experience, but in 2006, I was ready to leave the city.  I wanted to live in a community with art, entertainment, dining and excellent business opportunities, as well as a manageable cost of living.  Raleigh provides all of this and so much more.  I am also a big foodie, and wow what great restaurants we have.  18 Seaboard and The Stanbury are my favorites!  My advice to anyone moving to this area is to explore and take advantage of the diverse opportunities in each of the cities.  From First Friday, to the Eno River Festival, DPAC to the Symphony, each town has their own personality and culture, experience them!

During the depths of the financial crisis, I met my partner, Matt Archer, managing partner of Archer Investment Management, at a networking event.  Our philosophy in serving our clients aligned, and we became partners. With our focus on client care, communication and cutting edge technology, our company is growing and thriving. In fact, Investment News recently did a web show featuring our firm, and the company has been featured in Forbes, Fortune and Money magazines!

My greatest success? The world of finance is a male dominated industry and there are only a handful of female financial business owners under 40 in the country. I am proud of this role and feel a responsibility to working mothers that are coming behind me. The field is very demanding and competitive, and as a mother of two small children, this balance becomes my greatest challenge.

My top business tip for success in the Triangle is “be involved in the community”. Be present.   Pick a passion and support it, there are so many opportunities to give back!