We are a small team of talented professionals with a wide range of skills and experience.

We love what we do, and we do it with passion.

We have partnered with IA Network, which acts as our back office and extended team.

Tel: 704-859-4400

rschaff@uptownpartners.com

ROBERT D SCHAFF, MBA, CFP®, CIMA®

Financial Advisor

Robert began his career in financial services as an intern with Merrill Lynch. After graduating, Robert worked for Citigroup Smith Barney, LPL Financial, Wells Fargo, and Great Lakes & Atlantic. He held many different positions in each firm, such as Compliance Officer, Team Lead, and Director of Operations.

In 2018 Robert founded Uptown Partners. The firm provides advisory services to individuals and small business, in addition to consulting services for other independent firms. In 2022 Robert founded IA Network, an investment advisory firm platform that consists of several independent practices.

Robert received a BS degree in Business Administration from the University at Buffalo. In 2014, Robert returned to school to obtain an MBA focused on real estate development and finance from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. In the summer of 2018, Robert obtained the CFP® Designation. Later in 2021 he obtained the CIMA® Designation.

In his spare time Robert enjoys traveling, staying active, and being involved in the community. He currently serves on the Alumni Board for University of North Carolina Charlotte, is an active member of YAM, Young Affiliates of the Mint, at the Mint Museum, and recently joined the Charlotte Running Club.

Tel: 704-859-4400

ssmith@uptownpartners.com

STAR SMITH

Operations Manager

Upon earning her Associate in Arts degree from Greenville Technical College in Greenville, South Carolina, Star began her career in the financial industry as a receptionist at First Union Securities in July 2000, which later became Wachovia Securities. From there she took on the role of Operations Manager at Anderson & Strudwick for eight years until, coming full circle, she moved to Wells Fargo Advisors, formally Wachovia Securities. In August 2014, Star joined Rockworth Financial and through a business acquisition, joined the Stockham Financial team in January 2018 where she was critical in fostering client relations and branch success.

Star approaches each day with an unparalleled dedication to client service and support. As Operations Manager, Star carries out these responsibilities with her signature combination of personal touch and attention to detail.

Star and her husband, Eric, live in South Charlotte with their four adorable cats, Lumpy, Roo, Topher and Robin. She enjoys reading, spending quality time with friends & family and volunteering with Hospice of Charlotte providing administrative support.