Meet the professionals who can help you pursue your goals
We help individuals and families pursue their ideal retirements.
Meet The Team
Somerset Wealth Strategies was founded in 1997 by Tom Hamlin. Learn more about each of our team members below.
Thomas B. Hamlin
Founder & CEO
Andrew Murdoch
President
Scott M. Sadar
Vice President
Thomas B. Hamlin is a licensed registered (Series 7) rep and fee based (RIA) advisor. He is CEO & CCO of Somerset Securities, Inc. Somerset Securities works with; mutual funds, alternative investments, private placements, DST-1031, variable annuities and other securities related business. Tom is also CEO & Founder of Somerset Wealth Strategies, LLC, working with fixed annuities, fixed index annuities, life insurance and other non-security related products. In addition Tom is CEO & Founder of Somerset Wealth Management, LLC; specializing in fee based,fiduciary, RIA advisory services and Institutional style management through their relationships with TD Ameritrade Institutional and Charles Schwab.
He holds several securities and insurance licenses including:
- Series 6 (variable annuities and mutual funds license)
- Series 7 (securities license)
- Series 24 (Office of Supervisory Jurisdiction Branch Managers license)
- Series 63 (blue sky, allows selling securities in states outside of his resident state)
- Series 65 (Registered Investment Advisor Representative, which allows selling on a fee-only basis)
- Life and Disability License (which allows for the selling of insurance products and annuities)
- Tom is also licensed to do business in 50 states and three for both securities and insurance products
- Founder of “AnnuityFYI.com” the top independent fixed and variable annuity resource in the country (based on content, media mentions hits and recurring visitors) and is considered to have considerable expertise in the annuity industry
Tom has been a financial professional for nearly 31 years. He and his Team are responsible for placing assets of over one point two billion dollars ($1,200,000,000) with nearly 5,000 clients 50 states and territories.
Tom is a former Top Advisor and Branch Manager with Raymond James Financial Services. During his time at RJFS he was a member of their Elite Chairman’s Council comprised of the Top 30 Investment Professionals in the country (out of approximately 4,000 advisors nationwide) for 7 years. He was also the Top Annuity Producer in the United States for Raymond James Financial (based on annuity premiums) out of approximately 4,000 Financial Advisors for 9 consecutive years. In addition he built his branch from scratch and turned it into one of the Top 10 branches in the nation out of approximately 2,500.
Tom is also a former First Vice President of Prudential Securities (now Prudential Financial) and during his tenure was ranked in the top five nationally within the firm in personal annuity and insurance production, and led his branch to the #1 position nationally in annuity sales (1996 to 1997). Prior to working for Prudential Securities he was ranked the #1 and #2 Producer for four years with Independent Advantage Financial, Inc., which he helped, during his tenure, to become the nation’s largest independent shopping service for annuities and insurance products (1990 – 1994).
He has been responsible for sales, training and management of dozens of account specialists, brokers, advisors and admin. In addition he has been quoted by several top publications including; The Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, The Chicago Sun Times, VARDS, Ignites.com, Investment News, Tribune Media, Registered Rep Magazine, Financial Planning Magazine, National Underwriter, MarketWatch, Echos Times and numerous newsletters in addition to radio shows and public speaking as a respected source on financial investments. Tom is consistently ranked as one of the Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors in the country by Registered Rep magazine (based on assets under management) and he is also consistently considered for the Top 100 Advisors in the Nation by Worth Magazine, Barrons and Investor’s Business Daily (IBD) and was ranked the #2 advisor in the state of Oregon by Barron’s in 2010.
During his tenure in the business, Tom has built a level of trust and confidence among his clients that we believe is unrivaled by his competitors. Even with all of Tom’s exposure, over 98% of his production still comes from repeat business and existing client referrals. With a focus on; retirement planning, guaranteed lifetime income, principal protection guarantees*, wealth transfer, legacy planning and exceptional customer service, Tom’s goal is to exceed his clients’ expectations in every aspect of their dealings.
His favorite aphorism, “We focus on identifying Safe Money Strategies that aren’t too good to be true – just too good to last.”
In addition, it helps to follow a sound investment strategy, believing that diversification is the best strategy, uncertainty can create opportunity, and to never say never. Aside from one’s personal health there is nothing more important than good financial health. Through financial independence, comes peace of mind, which lowers one’s stress thus leading to a happier, healthier and more enjoyable life, and it’s our core mission to help our clients achieve all of this.
When asked how he chooses the plans that he recommends to his clients and prospects he says, “I only work with relative plans and strategies, meaning those that most representatives would only offer to their relatives (and sadly maybe not even then).” In addition, staying on the cutting edge of technology and on top of trends has been invaluable. Things are changing at such a rapid pace saying it’s like trying to hit a fast moving target would be putting it mildly, and if you’re not on top of what’s happening you’ll surely be left behind and your clients will suffer. Tom says another important goal is to get our clients’ focused on living out their dreams by tackling one by one the things on their “Lifetime To-Do-List” AKA “Bucket List.” When people are worried about their money they can’t let themselves relax enough to really enjoy their retirement, this snowballs and then you find yourself watching CNBC instead of watching your grandkids or a sunset from a mountain top or beautiful beach with your loved ones.”
Tom is also very involved in charitable giving by donating tens of thousands of dollars each year to a number of worthy charities including but not limited to; Mercy Corps, Children’s Cancer Association, St. Jude Hospital, Toys for Tots, Special Olympics, Make A Wish, Race for the Cure, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Parkinson’s, American Heart Association, 4-H Club, Wounded Warriors, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Alzheimer’s Association, his church and more. When Tom retires his goal is to focus full time on philanthropy, family, friends and anything that will add value to our tremendously flawed race. For more information, visit;
https://somersetwealthstrategies.com/somerset-charitable/
More information at: www.somersetws.com
*Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of the issuing company
Securities offered through Somerset Securities, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC since 1963
Andrew Murdoch is president of Somerset Wealth Strategies, a Certified Financial Planner™, and fiduciary. Andrew has a Bachelor of Science degree from the Russ College of Engineering and Technology at Ohio University.
Andrew holds several securities and insurance licenses including:
- Series 7 (securities license)
- Series 63 (blue sky, allows selling securities in states outside of his resident state)
- Series 65 (Registered Investment Advisor Representative, which allows selling on a fee-only basis)
- Life and Disability License (which allows for the selling of insurance products and annuities)
Andrew has been a financial professional since 2000 and has over 30 years of investment experience. He worked as a financial advisor for Morgan Stanley advising clients on a variety of financial instruments including managed money, mutual funds, municipal and corporate bonds, stocks, annuities, and option strategies.
Andrew also served as a wholesaler for Jackson National Life, where he aided advisors in over $250 million in annuity sales. He is well-versed in a variety of annuity and retirement strategies as well as potential pitfalls other financial professionals may overlook. He draws on this experience to help retirees avoid purchasing the inappropriate or unsuitable annuities. He has worked with Tom Hamlin’s team since 2002. He worked on the institutional side for two years and currently helps Tom develop financial plans for high net worth clientele.
Andrew believes in following an appropriate asset allocation model based on client risk tolerance and financial objectives. Andrew also knows this is a complex, confusing marketplace, and in order to gain his clients’ trust and confidence, the focus must be on information. As a seasoned member of Tom’s team, he knows he is only 33 percent as effective over the phone as he would be face to face, so he knows he must be three times better than the competition. Andrew strives to accomplish this in three ways:
- Being well-versed on current product knowledge in the industry
- Choosing suitable retirement income plan for the clients’ needs
- Unmatched customer service for the plans they work with
Andrew is dedicated to continuing learning and completed his Certified Financial Planner™ in 2010 and is looking into pursuing additional certification to increase his knowledge base.
When Andrew isn’t working, he enjoys spending his time with his two boys, Grayson and Harrison. Andrew is an avid skier and enjoys playing hockey a few times a week and boating in the summer.
Andrew is also active in the Portland community and is involved with several local and national charities on a regular basis. He also holds an annual event during the holiday season and raises money for Toys for Tots.
Scott M. Sadar is executive vice president and a Certified Financial Planner™ at Somerset Wealth Strategies. He is also a registered representative and fiduciary.
A financial professional for 15 years, Scott contributed to annuity sales at Jackson National Life and MetLife prior to joining Somerset Wealth Strategies. Scott’s experience in simplifying these complex products allows for his clients to understand what the product does for them.
Scott provides conservative and comprehensive financial planning advice for his clients. He prefers to ask “What are you trying to accomplish?” and then actually listen to clients share their financial goals and objectives. His style is to explain how those benefits will make a positive impact on the lives of his clients so they may focus on living their dreams with meaning and purpose.
An Eagle Scout with Troop 380 in Akron, Ohio, Scott’s background as a teacher and a coach began during his time in scouting. A graduate of Ohio University with a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication, Scott is currently pursuing his Master of Science in Financial Services (MSFS).
In order to be prepared for the challenges facing his clients, Scott has demonstrated knowledge of advanced financial planning strategies by earning the following professional designations and passing of securities exams:
- CFP® (Certified Financial Planner™)
- CLU® (Chartered Life Underwriter®)
- ChFC® (Chartered Financial Consultant®)
- CASL (Chartered Advisor for Senior Living)
- Series 6
- Series 7
- Series 24
- Series 63
- Variable life, health and disability license (which allows for the selling of insurance products and annuities)
Education, teaching and lifelong learning are passions of Scott’s. His volunteer activities include involvement with Junior Achievement, Boy Scout Troop 380 and the Financial Planning Association.
Scott is a marathon runner and resides in Portland, Oregon.
Megan L. Odermatt
Executive Assistant for Thomas
Assistant Office Manager
Derek Stamos
Advisor
Kristen Odermatt
Executive Assistant for Andrew
Office Manager
Megan Odermatt is the executive assistant for Thomas B. Hamlin and assistant office manager at Somerset Wealth Strategies.
Before joining our independent firm, Megan co-owned and operated a successful bistro, where she was able to grow the business over the course of three years. There, she applied much of the knowledge and education she obtained, while receiving a Bachelor of Science at Portland State University, where she majored in business administration and marketing. While obtaining her degrees, Megan managed 80+ employees at the Gap, Inc. Upon finishing school, she moved to New York City, where she worked under a high-level executive at a major recording label and multimedia company.
Megan’s accumulated knowledge and diversified background led her back to her business roots. Her enthusiasm for knowledge in the financial industry paired with her necessity for excellence make her perfect for our motivated, energetic team of professionals.
In her free time, Megan enjoys traveling, spending quality time with her dog, family and friends, exploring everything outdoors and enjoying the occasional cocktail hour. She resides in Portland, Oregon.
Derek Stamos is an Advisor at Somerset Wealth Strategies and has been part of the team for ten years. Derek holds a Series 7 (Securities License) and is Life Insurance Licensed, which allows for the selling of insurance products and fixed annuities.
Derek grew up in Bend, Oregon, and then went to college in Walla Walla, Washington, majoring in professional golf management. He was a pro at multiple high-end golf courses, including Avila Country Club in Tampa Bay, Florida, and Pronghorn Country Club in Bend, Oregon. Derek got his start in sales with Aston Martin Jaguar of Tampa Bay. While in Florida, he worked for the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team, assisting the players and upper management.
In his spare time, Derek enjoys playing golf, staying fit and spending time with his wife, friends and family.
Kristen Odermatt is the executive assistant of Andrew T. Murdoch and office manager at Somerset Wealth Strategies.
Before joining the Somerset team in November 2013, Kristen spent 13 years heading a well-known privately owned restaurant and catering business, where she was able to cultivate the customer service experience that makes her the perfect fit here. The hospitality industry has given Kristen a perfect mix of management, problem-solving and team building skills that have helped her thrive since joining our firm.
Kristen prides herself on exceeding client expectations and is dedicated to obtaining as much knowledge as she can. Her main goal is to take her client dedication and service to a national level.
When Kristen is not at the office, she enjoys cooking and baking, exercising, spending time with her friends and exploring the Oregon outdoors.
Meagan Sinniger
Operations Manager
Meagan Sinniger joins Somerset Wealth Strategies as an administrative assistant. Prior to joining Somerset in June 2015, Meagan worked for a Fortune 500 company in sales, cultivating her telecommunications and customer service background.
She attended Central Oregon Community College and majored in business administration and marketing. While earning her degree, she managed a team of 20+ employees with Limited Brands, Inc. in her hometown of Bend, Oregon, before moving and transferring to Portland.
Meagan has a passion for listening to people and exceeding their expectations. She prides herself on her self-motivation and dedication to always put the client first.
In Meagan’s free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and dancing.
Porsch Anthony
Client Service Coordinator
Porsch Anthony is the Client Service Coordinator for Somerset Wealth Strategies.
With over a decade of industry experience in investment client service, Porsch plays a key role in ensuring seamless operations and providing top-notch service to our valued clients. Before joining the Somerset team in June 2023, Porsch was part of a nationally recognized wealth management team, where he honed his skills and learned the importance of cultivating and maintaining excellent client relationships.
When he’s not working to support our clients, you will find him fulfilling his passion of being a dad and husband by spending time and having fun with his wife and 2 boys. He can also be found on stage, singing and performing with a few local bands around the Portland, OR area.
Lydia Hershey
Director of Operations
Lydia Hershey is the Director of Operations for Somerset Wealth Strategies.
She has been working in the financial industry for 12+ years, the last several were spent with a nationally recognized top wealth advisory team where she gained experience in leading a team and developing strategies and processes. Her firm won the Best Client Experience award each year from the time that it was introduced.
She has a BS in Social Work and Counseling from Portland State University, which has given her a deeper understanding of how to communicate well and develop leadership skills. Lydia also served on the board of directors for a local non-profit Emerj SafeNow that taught violence prevention skills to at-risk populations.
Her interest in people is what makes her an asset to any team. She works hard to ensure that both clients and employees are the focus and she works hard to instill excellence in client experience and employee relationships.
In her free time, she spends time with her new rescue dog who she lovingly refers to as a “Potato”, her two kids and husband. You can find her expanding her book list, baking or spending time outdoors.
Ready to meet with one of our Financial Professionals?
For more information about any of the products and services listed here, schedule a meeting today.
Or give us a call at 503-595-1333
