By:  Eric Koeplin

Eric Koeplin is a distinguished financial professional and philanthropist based in Denver, Colorado. As the founder and CEO of Alpha Principle, he has melded his expertise in finance with a commitment to societal impact, focusing on “Better Investing. Greater Purpose.” With a foundation as an Eagle Scout and multiple business degrees from the University of Colorado, Eric’s career trajectory has been marked by significant roles, including Chairman of the Investment Committee for AdvicePeriod and President at The Milestone Group. Recognized by Barron’s and The Wall Street Journal for his achievements, Eric is also deeply involved in community service, holding key board positions in several non-profit organizations.

Q&A with Eric Koeplin

Eric, can you share with us the inspiration behind founding Alpha Principle and its unique ethos?

The inspiration for Alpha Principle came from a desire to merge my passion for finance with my commitment to positive social impact. My personal faith, which is shared by our employees, is a key driver. Having witnessed the transformative power of socially responsible investing, I wanted to create a platform that not only focuses on better investing and higher rates of return, but also pursues a greater purpose. At Alpha Principle, we believe that financial success and social contribution can go hand in hand, driving us to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Your career in the financial industry is quite impressive. What do you attribute your success to, especially your recognitions by Barron’s and The Wall Street Journal?

Since the age of 12, I was determined to be the best in whatever I pursued. I believe my success can also be attributed to a few key factors: honoring the people I serve, a deep commitment to my clients’ best interests, and a continuous drive to innovate and bring the stellar solutions to my clients. Being recognized by prestigious publications like Barron’s and The Wall Street Journal was not only an honor but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of my entire team. It’s always been about setting high standards and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in finance.

As an Eagle Scout, how have the values and skills you acquired influenced your professional life and leadership style?

The values and skills I acquired as an Eagle Scout have been foundational to my professional life and leadership style. The Scout Law, which emphasizes traits like trustworthiness, loyalty, helpfulness, and kindness, has guided my approach to business and leadership. It taught me the importance of setting goals, working diligently towards them, and leading by example. This ethos has permeated my work, from fostering a collaborative team environment to engaging with clients and the community.

You’ve held significant roles in the financial industry before founding Alpha Principle. How did these experiences shape your vision for the company?

My roles at AdvicePeriod and The Milestone Group were instrumental in shaping my vision for Alpha Principle. These experiences exposed me to the intricacies of asset management and the importance of a client-centric approach. They also revealed the potential for financial institutions to contribute positively to society. Sadly, too many financial institutions are more focused on their own profits, and selling their own products even when they are inferior. When you really expose what they pursue, many financial organizations are not very interested in the premier interests of their clients. With Alpha Principle, I am determined to offer a better approach, creating an open architecture environment that not only excels in investment management and pursuing superior results, but also promotes greater societal good. I think of our approach as the ultimate win-win. My goal is to hear ‘well done’ at the end of the rodeo.

Beyond your professional achievements, you’re also involved in philanthropy and community service. How do you balance these commitments with your role at Alpha Principle?

Balancing my professional responsibilities with philanthropy and community service is certainly challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I view my philanthropic efforts as an extension of my professional life, where the skills and resources I’ve acquired can be used to benefit others. Time management and prioritizing are key, but it’s also about integrating these aspects of my life in a way that they complement and enhance each other.

How do you unwind and recharge, given your busy schedule?

Unwinding and recharging are crucial for maintaining balance, and I find great joy in outdoor activities like golf and skiing. These activities not only offer a physical release but also provide me with the mental space to reflect and rejuvenate. Spending time in nature, especially in the beautiful landscapes of Colorado, helps me to reset and come back to my professional and philanthropic endeavors with renewed energy and perspective.

Looking towards the future, what are your aspirations for Alpha Principle and how do you plan to navigate the evolving landscape of the financial industry?

My aspiration for Alpha Principle is to continue to grow as a leader in responsible investing, setting new standards for how financial success can contribute to societal well-being. We’re committed to staying at the forefront of industry innovations, embracing ethical investment practices that align with our ethos. Navigating the evolving landscape will require adaptability, continuous learning, and a commitment to our core values. We aim to empower our clients with the knowledge and tools to make informed investment choices, fostering a community that thrives on excellence, financial prosperity and positive social impact.

Key Takeaways

Integration of Finance and Philanthropy: Eric Koeplin emphasizes the core ethos of Alpha Principle, which is to blend sound investment practices with a commitment to broader societal contributions, showcasing a model where financial success and social impact coexist.

Leadership Rooted in Early Values: Koeplin’s leadership style and professional ethos are deeply influenced by his formative experiences as an Eagle Scout, highlighting the importance of trustworthiness, diligence, and community service in both personal and professional realms.

Future Vision and Adaptability: Looking ahead, Eric aims to steer Alpha Principle through the evolving financial landscape by prioritizing ethical investment strategies, underscoring the importance of innovation and adaptability in achieving both long-term investment success and societal benefit.

Published by: Martin De Juan