2012 40 Under Forty: Sara McGrath

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, Clifford & Rano Associates Inc.

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Grafton

Favorite movie: “The Pursuit of Happyness”

Career highlights: Along with two co-owners, I opened a restaurant directly out of college. I handled the financials and payroll. I left as a silent partner to pursue a career as a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley. Sadly, the restaurant closed down shortly thereafter. At Morgan Stanley, I developed a passion for providing professional guidance on financial literacy and other issues. After two years with Morgan Stanley, I joined Clifford & Rano in 2005. I started at the firm as a financial advisor associate and am now a senior vice president.

Community involvement: I am a former co-director of the Downtown Women’s Club of Worcester. The club’s mission is to empower women through access to information and collaboration. I am president of the UMass Amherst Alumni Club of Greater Worcester and work to connect alumni with the university through social, professional, cultural and community service events.

Biggest success: My biggest success has come from making a difference in my clients’ lives. Every day is successful when helping an individual or small business work toward financial goals. I am lucky to have a career I truly enjoy.

Biggest challenge: Work-life balance is one of the most significant struggles. My career can be very demanding which means late nights and time away from my husband and two children.

Mentors: My parents have encouraged me in all I do. They have taught me respect, honesty, and integrity through example. As my professional mentors, Ray Clifford and Bob Rano have played a major role in my success. They set very high personal and professional standards, have reinforced my own personal and professional values, and continue to provide me with valuable information and a different perspective on problems or challenges I encounter.

Hidden talent: I was one of the all-time leading scorers on my high school basketball team.

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