The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina (FEISC) at Anderson University is pleased to announce that Chip McLeod and Tom Clark of Merrill’s McLeod, Clark and Associates have joined the Institute as an Affiliate Partner. This partnership further strengthens the Institute’s network of trusted advisors and resources dedicated to helping family-owned businesses succeed across generations.
As one of the world’s leading wealth management and financial advisory organizations, Merrill brings extensive expertise in wealth planning, business transition, succession planning, investment management, and multi-generational family wealth stewardship—areas that are critically important to family enterprises as they navigate growth, continuity, and legacy.
“We are honored to welcome McLeod, Clark & Associates as an Affiliate Partner of the Institute,” said Dr. Brad Bechtold, Executive Director of FEISC. “Family-owned businesses face unique opportunities and challenges that require thoughtful planning and trusted guidance. Merrill’s commitment to helping families preserve and grow both their businesses and their wealth makes them a natural fit for our mission. We look forward to collaborating with Chip and Tom and their entire Merrill team as we continue to equip family enterprises throughout South Carolina.”
This partnership with FEISC reflects a shared commitment to supporting family business owners and helping them achieve both business success and family continuity.
“We understand that family enterprises are about much more than financial performance—they are about values, relationships, legacy, and the future of generations to come,” said Tom Clark, Financial Advisor. “We are proud to partner with the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at Anderson University and support the important work being done to help family-owned businesses navigate growth, succession, governance, and long-term stewardship. We look forward to contributing our expertise and learning alongside the exceptional family business leaders who make up the Institute.”
Chip McLeod, Financial Advisor, Resident Director, and President of Bank of America Upstate South Carolina emphasized the importance of investing in the region’s family-owned business community.
“Family-owned businesses are the backbone of South Carolina’s economy and a driving force behind the vitality of our communities,” said McLeod, who has over 30 years of experience. “We are proud to support the Institute’s efforts to foster leadership development, strategic planning, and successful transitions among family enterprises. We believe strong family businesses create strong communities, and we are excited to be part of an organization that is making such a meaningful impact across our state.”
McLeod, Clark and Associates joins a growing network of Affiliate Partners that support the Institute’s mission to help family enterprises thrive for generations. More info at https://advisor.ml.com/sites/sc/spartanburg-sc/mcleod.
About The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina
The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at Anderson University exists to educate, connect, and inspire family-owned businesses through world-class programming, peer networks, and practical resources. The Institute helps family enterprises address issues such as succession planning, governance, leadership development, family dynamics, strategic growth, and business continuity.