Jay Alava

Associate Wealth Advisor

Jay is an Associate Wealth Advisor at Hightower Signature Wealth (formerly Stearns Financial Group), where he helps ensure clients and advisors stay aligned through every stage of the relationship. He works closely with advisors throughout the advisory process, contributing to client meetings and ensuring that follow-up actions, portfolio updates, and client requests are handled with accuracy and efficiency.

Jay’s background in operations, trading support, and client service provides a comprehensive understanding of how investment strategies are implemented, supported, and maintained across the client relationship. Prior to joining Hightower Signature Wealth, Jay worked within a leading global wirehouse in Southern California, gaining experience inside a large, fast paced advisory environment.

Before transitioning into financial services, Jay served 9 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. This experience instilled a disciplined, service first mindset that continues to shape how he supports clients and collaborates with colleagues. Jay earned his bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, a discipline that informs his analytical approach to problem solving and decision making.

Outside of work, Jay enjoys spending time with his wife, their two children, and his two golden retrievers. As a family, they are avid campers and weekend adventure seekers. He is also a dedicated CrossFit enthusiast and strives to live a fitness-focused and active lifestyle.