Jesse Lillard is a Senior Vice President and Senior Financial Advisor based in Saginaw, Michigan. With over a decade of experience and a commitment to delivering thoughtful, client-focused guidance, Jesse has been helping individuals, families, and business owners navigate complex financial decisions since joining Merrill Lynch in 2012.
Jesse focuses on helping clients prepare for retirement by simplifying the financial landscape and creating tailored strategies that align with their goals and values. He works closely with clients to assess their current financial position, identify opportunities, and develop clear, actionable steps to help them move confidently toward a secure and fulfilling future.
Outside of his professional life, Jesse enjoys a full and active life with his wife, Carly, and their two children, Maycie and Elias. Together, Jesse and Carly share a love for Michigan State basketball and enjoy spending time outdoors fishing and shooting. Jesse also has a passion for playing music. As devoted animal lovers, their home is shared with a lively group of pets—including two dogs, a cat, a hamster, and a fish. The family loves to travel, often seeking out destinations where they can experience wildlife and the natural beauty of the outdoors. Much of their time is also spent supporting Maycie and Elias in their many extracurricular activities, keeping the family on the go and closely connected.
Jesse is continually growing his practice and remains open to new opportunities to work with individuals, families, and business owners seeking trusted guidance. He welcomes the chance to build new relationships and help clients take meaningful steps toward their financial goals.
Jesse graduated cum laude from Wayne State University with a bachelor's degree in economics. His academic foundation in economics provides him with a deep understanding of financial systems and the ability to apply economic principles to real-world financial decisions.
Jesse holds the FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 securities registrations, enabling him to offer a wide range of investment services. These licenses demonstrate his ability to manage investment portfolios and provide clients with comprehensive, compliant strategies.
Jesse is fully licensed for accident and health, life, and variable annuities insurance in the state of Michigan. This allows him to offer clients a broad range of insurance solutions to safeguard their financial well-being and achieve their long-term objectives.
Jesse holds the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® CPFA® designation, which demonstrates his knowledge in the oversight and management of employer-sponsored retirement plans. With this credential, he provides guidance to plan sponsors on fiduciary responsibilities, investment selection, and plan design—helping them deliver meaningful retirement outcomes to their employees while managing risk and meeting regulatory requirements.
Jesse holds the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®) designation, equipping him with the specialized knowledge to help business owners prepare for and execute successful transitions. Whether planning for succession, sale, or another form of exit, Jesse works closely with clients to align their business strategies with personal financial goals—ensuring they are well-positioned for both the next phase of their business and life.
Bringing fresh perspectives to your financial life
The financial decisions you make today can help determine the future you build for yourself and your family. Carving a clear path forward starts with connecting your life and finances. A Merrill advisor provides access to the investing insights of Merrill and banking capabilities of Bank of America to help you make informed decisions as you pursue your goals.
