OUR HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY
Our History
- January 1991Liz Sampson joins Waddell & ReedLiz is introduced to financial planning and leaves a fulfilling career as a university administrator to pursue her new passion for financial planning with Waddell & Reed.
- April 2000Rick West launches financial careerRick exits the architectural industry after 9 years to pursue his zest for finance ... begins writing a financial newsletter, providing market insights on the radio, teaching investment seminars, and conducting technical market analysis for commodity & currency trading firms.
- December 2009Rick West joins Waddell & ReedRick begins his financial planning practice with Waddell & Reed.
- May 2013Liz & Rick meetLiz and Rick first realize the similarities in their approach to financial planning and client service -- beginning the foundation of their partnership.
- November 2015Sampson West & Associates, Inc.As Liz likes to say, "After having business dated for a number of years", Liz & Rick merge their practices by forming a team.
- May 2018Concord River Financial (CRF)Team "Sampson West & Associates" begins to do business as "Concord River Financial" in an effort to better reflect their client-oriented philosophy and long term commitment to their clients' financial interests.
- June 2019Acton, MA officeConcord River Financial relocates their Massachusetts office to Acton, MA, in addition to affiliated office in Epping, NH.
- July 2021Waddell & Reed acquired by LPL FinancialAs a result of the acquisition of Waddell & Reed by LPL Financial, Concord River Financial aligns with broker dealer LPL Financial.
- May 2022Carl Marchitto welcomed as new PartnerRick and Liz welcome Carl Marchitto as a Concord River Financial Partner
- May 2023Woburn, MA officeCRF adds a second branch office in Massachusetts, located in Woburn
- June 2024Westford, MA officeConcord River Financial relocates their Acton, MA office to Westford, MA, in addition to branch offices in Epping, NH and Woburn, MA
- December 2024Liz Sampson assumes role as Partner EmeritusLiz Sampson assumes the role of Founder | Partner Emeritus, primarily serving as a consultant to CRF’s partners and staff. Epping, NH branch office closes.
Guiding Principles and Philosophies

The historic Old North Bridge in Concord, MA, located just a few short miles from our Concord River Financial (CRF) main office, served a significant role during the American Revolutionary War and the birth of our nation. It is here that the founders of CRF took inspiration when establishing CRF's guiding philosophies and principles.

Whether a bridge is constructed to cross a stream or a raging river, no two bridges are the same as each has its own purpose, style and obstacles to overcome. At the heart of CRF's core philosophy is that every client deserves their own uniquely designed "bridge" to assist in crossing their own personal "river".
In today's complex, ever-changing financial landscape, we work with you to create and execute your customized plan to help bridge the gap between today's dreams and aspirations, and tomorrow's realities.
