Rafael Gutierrez Nieto
Senior Financial Advisor | Partner
Rafael is a partner and co-founder of FARO Wealth. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a Master of Science in Finance from Georgetown University, Washington D.C.
Rafael began his career at Falcon International Bank and LPL Financial. While there, he obtained his Series 7 and Series 66 licenses and assumed duties that ranged from portfolio management to equity and bond portfolio analysis.
Rafael’s career advanced when he was hired to join Jack Avigael’s team at Merrill Lynch. During his six-year tenure there, he managed Ultra High Net Worth accounts for domestic and international clients and was instrumental in growing the Laredo office assets under management and production.
Immediately following his time at Merrill, Rafael ventured into the independent realm of investment management. Co-founding AlphaPoint Investment Management, Rafael gained extensive knowledge of the financial services infrastructure and the flexibility available to independent advisors. After refining his business approach and aligning with partners who shared a common vision, Rafael co-founded FARO Wealth in 2013.
Emmanuel Guajardo
Senior Financial Advisor
Luis Emmanuel Guajardo, CFP®, CES, MBA serves as a Senior Financial Advisor at Faro Wealth, where he partners with individuals, families, business owners, and nonprofit organizations to develop personalized wealth management strategies. He believes exceptional financial advice extends well beyond investment management and is built on understanding each client’s unique goals, values, and vision for the future.
Emmanuel takes a comprehensive approach to wealth management by integrating investment management with retirement planning, tax-efficient strategies, estate and legacy planning, risk management, charitable giving, and business succession planning. Known for his thoughtful problem-solving and collaborative approach, he works closely with clients and their team of attorneys, accountants, and other trusted professionals to simplify complex financial decisions and create coordinated strategies designed to preserve and grow wealth across generations.
With years of experience serving clients throughout South Texas, Emmanuel has earned a reputation for building lasting relationships founded on trust, accessibility, and personalized service. He is passionate about helping clients gain confidence in their financial decisions and believes that the most successful advisor relationships are built through ongoing communication, education, and a genuine understanding of each family’s evolving needs.
A lifelong resident of Laredo, Emmanuel is deeply committed to strengthening the community that has shaped him. He currently serves as President of the Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center and is an active board member of the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Laredo. He also chairs the Laredo Chamber of Commerce’s Cola Blanca Big Buck Contest, an initiative that promotes tourism, conservation, and economic development throughout the region.
Outside the office, Emmanuel enjoys spending time with his wife and young son, hunting, ranching, playing golf, and making memories with family and friends. His commitment to service extends beyond his profession, and he strives to make a meaningful difference in both his clients’ lives and the community he proudly calls home.
Alejandra Cadena
Operations Manager | Lead Client Associate
Alejandra Cadena brings a decade of experience in client service, marketing, and operations to Faro Wealth, bringing together a strong understanding of the business with a detail-oriented and client-focused approach. She graduated magna cum laude from Texas A&M International University and holds an MBA with a concentration in International Business.
Since joining Faro Companies, Alejandra has become an integral part of the organization, helping oversee day-to-day operations and supporting the coordination of teams and services across the broader Faro Companies organization. Her experience allows her to approach both client needs and internal operations with efficiency, professionalism, and careful attention to detail.
Alejandra also holds a Texas Property & Casualty Insurance License, adding another layer of expertise to her role. With a strong commitment to quality and consistency, she helps ensure both clients and colleagues receive the responsive, organized support that is central to the Faro experience.
Manuel Garcia Mier Y Teran
Head of Business Development
Manuel has a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM). He worked in Grupo Financiero BASE for 9 years as a Senior Financial Advisor in the Specialized Banking Division operating FX and derivatives, servicing Mexican and international corporate clients. He obtained the AMIB Figura III license as a registered representative in Mexico to operate in the capital markets. Manuel holds an MBA from EGADE Business School and spent a semester in ESSEC Business School pursuing a Master in Strategy & Management of International Business.
Manuel joined FARO to head the FX division.
Megan Korrodi
Client Associate
Megan Korrodi is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in client service, office management, and operational leadership. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for providing exceptional support to clients while maintaining efficient and organized business operations. Prior to joining the wealth management industry, Megan served in leadership and administrative roles within the legal field, where she managed complex schedules, coordinated client communications, and oversaw day-to-day office operations. Her attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and commitment to delivering outstanding service have made her a trusted resource for both clients and colleagues. At the firm, Megan is passionate about creating a positive client experience and ensuring that every interaction is handled with professionalism, care, and efficiency. She understands the importance of building strong relationships and takes pride in helping clients feel informed, supported, and valued throughout their financial journey.
Cristobal Peña
Client Associate
Cristobal serves as a Client Services & Analytics Associate at Faro Wealth, supporting clients across the firm’s wealth management services while contributing an analytical perspective to the team. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a concentration in Financial Applications from Texas Christian University, providing him with a strong foundation in economics, financial analysis, and market concepts.
In his role, Cristobal combines client support with data-driven analysis, helping organize and evaluate information that supports the team’s day-to-day operations and client service efforts. His analytical mindset, attention to detail, and thoughtful approach allow him to contribute across both client-facing and internal initiatives.
Cristobal values professionalism, clear communication, and a thoughtful approach to his work. He is committed to continuing to expand his knowledge and contribute to the responsive, high-quality service that defines the Faro Wealth experience.
Anali Paredes
Client Concierge
Anali Paredes is a Client Concierge at Faro Wealth, dedicated to delivering a seamless and personalized experience for every client. As one of the first points of contact, she takes pride in building strong relationships and ensuring clients feel welcomed, supported, and valued at every interaction.
In her role, Anali assists with client communications, account coordination, and day-to-day service needs, helping maintain an organized and efficient client experience. She is known for her attention to detail, positive attitude, and commitment to providing exceptional service.
Anali brings a strong interest in business, technology, and client service to her role at Faro Wealth. She is passionate about continuing to develop her knowledge and skills through hands-on experience while contributing to an innovative, team-oriented environment. Her thoughtful approach, willingness to learn, and dedication to supporting both clients and colleagues allow her to contribute to the high level of service clients expect from Faro Wealth.
Mayra Becerra-Alanis
Marketing Coordinator
Mayra Becerra serves as a Marketing Coordinator at Faro Companies, a multi-division suite of financial services companies based in Laredo, Texas. She holds a B.A. in Digital Communication and Marketing from The University of Texas at San Antonio.
In her role, she helps shape and execute marketing initiatives across Faro’s diverse portfolio of companies, strengthening brand visibility, consistency, and positioning across multiple industries. From freight factoring and logistics to insurance, mortgage services, and wealth management, she adapts strategy, messaging, and creative direction to connect with each division’s unique audience while maintaining a cohesive brand presence.
Her experience spans content creation, brand management, social media, digital and print marketing, campaign development, event marketing, and vendor coordination. With a strong eye for design and detail, she focuses on creating polished, intentional marketing that communicates clearly, supports business objectives, and strengthens each brand’s presence across all platforms.
Irazú Caballero
Front Desk Representative
Since 2018, Irazú has passionately immersed herself in the realms of human development, emotional management, and personal growth, committing to both learning and sharing her insights with others. By exploring various aspects of natural medicine and alternative therapies, she has gained the expertise needed to provide valuable assistance and encouragement to numerous individuals on their personal paths. Concurrently, Irazú actively collaborated with the Social Economic Networkers team, participating in network marketing to expand her skills and connections.
To stay up-to-date in this constantly evolving landscape, Irazú consistently attends and participates in conferences, seminars, and leadership training programs, continuously refining her abilities and expanding her knowledge. Her dedication led her to complete comprehensive training as a Life Coach in 2023, arming herself with a diverse toolkit to empower and elevate human potential.
Irazú joined Faro Companies in 2023 as a client associate aiming to deliver exceptional service to clients characterized by warmth and quality. During her leisure time, Irazú finds joy in nature, painting, and practicing meditation.
rafael@farowealth.com
956-568-1190
SEC Investment Adviser Profile