Keeping Clients First: Investment Services Director Sease Receives National Honor
8/28/2026 - By Rachel Ham - Wealth Insights and Stories | SouthState Wealth
Methods of tracking data, managing assets digitally and communicating with clients across long distances have changed much over the past 31 years. For SouthState Investment Services (SSIS), however, the core tenants of putting clients first and offering locally based advice and guidance remain the same as in 1995.
A testament to the group’s longevity and stable leadership, SSIS, represented by Managing Director Tim Sease, was recognized with one of the industry’s top honors – the 2026 Bank Insurance & Securities Association’s (BISA) Circle of Excellence.
To be eligible for this distinguished award, candidates must have a minimum of 20 years of experience and impact in the financial services industry. BISA notes that it is the most prestigious award given by their association. Sease considers the honor a true team award.
“I was certainly moved and humbled to receive the call from BISA. It’s a reflection on what our team has accomplished and speaks to the support and opportunity afforded to us by SouthState Bank. This support has directly contributed to our success and longevity,” he says.
SouthState Investment Services’ advisors work collaboratively, but the highly competitive industry does “keep score.” Sease says the recognition motivates them to continue delivering on a high level.
A testament to the group’s longevity and stable leadership, SSIS, represented by Managing Director Tim Sease, was recognized with one of the industry’s top honors – the 2026 Bank Insurance & Securities Association’s (BISA) Circle of Excellence.
To be eligible for this distinguished award, candidates must have a minimum of 20 years of experience and impact in the financial services industry. BISA notes that it is the most prestigious award given by their association. Sease considers the honor a true team award.
“I was certainly moved and humbled to receive the call from BISA. It’s a reflection on what our team has accomplished and speaks to the support and opportunity afforded to us by SouthState Bank. This support has directly contributed to our success and longevity,” he says.
SouthState Investment Services’ advisors work collaboratively, but the highly competitive industry does “keep score.” Sease says the recognition motivates them to continue delivering on a high level.
It’s been one of the greatest privileges of my career to be surrounded by incredible teammates at SouthState, and we are grateful for the trust our clients put in us.
Who is SouthState Investment Services?
SouthState Investment Services was launched in 1995 with the same mission it has today: putting our clients’ best interests first and foremost.Advisors provide comprehensive guidance for investment, retirement, financial planning and legacy planning needs. With the expansion into Texas and Colorado, SouthState Investment Services is focused on growing the team to serve additional clients in these dynamic markets.
“The future is bright in the wealth management industry,” Sease says. “Likewise, we feel we have never been better positioned to continue our momentum as we serve our growing client base.”
Reflecting on notion of the Circle of Excellence, Sease says his team works from the mindset of placing clients at the center of the circle, giving them equal focus from all avenues.
“Our team is relentlessly focused on deepening client relationships and helping clients and their families pursue their long-term goals,” he adds.
As a company SouthState is a proponent of mentorship and internal growth. Advisors pursue advanced designations, licenses and degrees; for example, 13 have completed CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional certification.
“It is critically important for us to continue to invest in professional development so that we are informed and more knowledgeable as we aspire to be better equipped in a changing industry landscape,” Sease says.
Who Needs Investment Services?
SouthState Investment Services advisors are available to anyone seeking investment advice, retirement income guidance, life insurance and long-term care assistance, or comprehensive financial planning for their goals.When considering financial planning, advisors recommend that clients:
- Start financial planning early
- Be consistent with contributions
- Don’t be discouraged. It’s more important to stick to your financial plan, even in difficult market conditions
Whether it is a business owner seeking to create a retirement plan, someone in the wealth-building stage looking for investment advice, or an individual who is retiring and wants to create an income stream, SouthState Investment Services is here to help.
Find more information on our website.
