XPX DC Metro: The Family Office – Planning for Transition and Legacy

Many business owners hear the term 'Family Office' and assume it's only for billionaires. In reality, the family office model is less about size and more about coordinating the right expertise around an owner's biggest financial event—the sale of their business. Join us as our panel explores how family office thinking can improve exit planning by aligning tax strategy, estate planning, philanthropy, wealth management, and family governance before the transaction ever begins. Whether your clients are preparing for a sale in two years or simply building long-term wealth, you'll leave with practical ideas to help them make better decisions and create better outcomes.

Our Speakers:

James Brennan
Regional Vice president
Nationwide

James Brennan is a Regional Vice President with Nationwide who has more than 20 years of experience helping business owners, wealthy families, and the next generation navigate complex financial, estate, and charitable planning strategies. He specializes in integrating traditional estate and trust planning with practical financial solutions and is known for translating sophisticated concepts into clear, actionable guidance. James holds an LL.M. from Georgetown University Law Center, a J.D. from Wake Forest University, and a B.S. from the University of Scranton. Outside the office, he has completed more than 100 marathons and ultramarathons, including a marathon in all 50 states.



Scott Mergner, CEPA®
Senior Vice President
The Mergner Group at Morgan Stanley

Scott Mergner, CEPA®, is a Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor with The Mergner Group at Morgan Stanley, where he leads the firm's ultra-high-net-worth and liquidity management planning practice. A third-generation wealth advisor, Scott focuses on helping business owners prepare for and successfully navigate the financial complexities surrounding an ownership transition. As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®), he combines wealth management expertise with exit planning strategies to help clients preserve and transfer wealth while achieving their long-term goals. Scott is an Amherst College graduate, where he co-captained the undefeated NESCAC Championship football team. He is actively involved in professional and charitable organizations throughout the Washington, D.C. region.

Agenda:

7:30 -8:15 Networking
8:15- 9:30 Program/Admin

Registration Fees:

XPX DC Members in good standing – $35.00 so join Today!
XPX DC Members Same Day Fee - $45.00

Other XPX Chapter Members – $50.00
Other XPX Chapter Members Same Day Fee - $60.00

Non-Members – $60.00
Non-Members Same Day Fee – $70.00

Full breakfast is included.

BRING A FIRST-TIME GUEST TO XPX!

XPX DC members are encouraged to bring a first-time guest (FREE) for this event. Members (not guest), can contact angie@exitplanningexchange.com to register your guest. 

Event Registration Cancellation Policy: You may request a full refund for your event registration up to 72 hours before the scheduled date and time. After that deadline, the sale is final and no refunds or credits will be issued. The registration fee is non-transferable, non-substitutable and no replacements are offered.