As Integro Advisers marks its 15th anniversary this month, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable journey that has defined the firm’s success. Founded by Alberto de la Portilla, a visionary in risk management, the firm has grown from a bold idea into a respected consultancy in the financial services industry. Reflecting on this, Alberto shared, “This special milestone would not be possible without the contribution of so many who have been part of our team over the years, including analysts, investigators, auditors, and consultants. I am also eternally grateful to the more than 180 clients who have entrusted us with their risk management needs over the past decade and a half. I am proud of the work we have done in helping businesses achieve success the right way and I look forward to many more years ahead.”

This milestone is not just about the company’s growth; it’s about the people who have made it all possible. Through their stories, we gain insight into the collective effort that has built Integro Advisers into the firm it is today.

The Beginning: A Shared Vision

Alberto de la Portilla’s vision for Integro Advisers was rooted in the belief that integrity, expertise and transparency are the cornerstones of effective risk management. This belief resonated with the team members who joined him early on. “From the outset, I knew that I wanted the business to reflect my values and whoever we hired needed to be aligned with those same values.”

John Karansky,  a Senior Director at Integro Advisers, recalls his first meeting with the company. “I was searching for new opportunities in the financial services industry. After a conversation with Alberto, I was excited to mesh my skills with his background and experiences to help develop Integro Advisers.” John’s decision to join the firm early on was driven by a shared vision of creating a leading risk management consultancy, a vision that has indeed come to fruition.

Julia Lopez, another long-time team member, was drawn to Integro Advisers because of its stellar reputation. Julia highlights how the firm’s boutique environment allows for direct communication and facilitates a close-knit team approach.  “There is more direct communication with the leadership, which has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally,” she explains.

For Johanna Moreno, a recent addition to the team, the collaborative environment and open communication has been a highlight of her experience with the firm. This has ensured that all team members are aligned, she says, contributing to the firm’s cohesive strategy and overall success.

Rafael Mejia, who joined the firm two years ago, has witnessed the firm’s  structured and well-organized approach to projects. He emphasizes the importance of the company’s commitment to staying ahead of regulatory changes. “Changes in the BSA, and the PATRIOT Act legislation have significantly influenced industry practices,” he notes, adding that it has been at the forefront of how Integro Advisers approaches each engagement, underscoring the firm’s adaptability.

Karansky has seen the firm grow from a start-up with just a few contracts to a key player in the international banking sector which he noticed after taking a seven-year hiatus to work for the Federal Reserve. “When I returned [to Integro Advisers], I was amazed by how the company had grown,” he says, highlighting the firm’s expansion and increased reputation in the industry.

“We built a reputation as a steady and professional firm that delivered time and again for its clients,” says de la Portilla. 

Technology has played a crucial role in transforming the AML/CFT compliance landscape, and Integro Advisers has been at the forefront of this change. Phillip Carratala, one of the newer team members, emphasizes the impact of expanded monitoring platforms and sophisticated software tools. “Technology has created a fast-moving environment in compliance,” he says, adding that the company has reflected a commitment to leveraging the latest advancements to stay ahead.

Mejia adds that the introduction of artificial intelligence has been a game-changer. “There are many technology tools available that streamline processes and enhance the effectiveness of compliance programs.” Demonstrating the firm’s ability to adapt and integrate new technologies into their operations is important to our clients, he adds.

Looking Ahead

As Integro Advisers celebrates its 15th anniversary, a key part of the firm’s success is the collective effort, expertise, and dedication of its team members.

With a strong foundation built over the past 15 years, Integro Advisers is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of success. As the firm looks towards the future, it remains committed to innovation, excellence, and making a lasting impact in the financial services industry.

“The journey has been challenging, but the rewards have been immeasurable. I’m proud to be part of a team that values integrity, expertise, and continuous improvement,” says Julia Lopez. This sentiment captures the essence of Integro Advisers—a firm where people and success go hand in hand.