SEASIDE
FINANCIAL & INSURANCE SERVICES
MEET THE TEAM
Shawn Orser
President and CEO
As Chief Executive Officer of Seaside Advisory Services, Shawn Orser is actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the firm. He also serves as Chief Investment Officer, overseeing investment strategy and portfolio management across client accounts.
Shawn believes that sound financial decision-making throughout life is just as important as making prudent investment choices. He works closely with clients on an individual basis, helping them align their financial strategies with what matters most to them.
Prior to joining Seaside, Shawn earned a degree in Finance from Syracuse University. He spent over a decade on Wall Street, working with firms including Merrill Lynch and Titan Capital, where he focused primarily on derivative strategies.
Outside of the office, Shawn enjoys spending time with his family and staying active with his three sons. He is also an avid fan of New York sports teams, including the Rangers, Jets, Yankees, Knicks, and Syracuse Orange
Professional Registrations & Disclosures
Shawn Orser is registered as an Investment Adviser Representative with Seaside Advisory Services, through which he offers investment advisory services on a fee-based basis.
He is also a Registered Representative with Fortune Financial Services, Inc., through which he offers securities products and services on a commission basis.
Fortune Financial Services, Inc. is not affiliated with Seaside Advisory Services.
Shawn Orser has passed the following FINRA exams.
-
Series 7 - General Securities Representative
-
Series 66 - Uniform Securities Agents Law
-
Series 55 - Equity Trader Examination
-
Series 63 - Uniform Securities Agent State Law
Darlene Maza
Chief Compliance Officer &
Operations Manager
Darlene Maza serves as Chief Compliance Officer and an Investment Adviser Representative at Seaside Advisory Services. In her role, she oversees the firm’s compliance program while also working directly with clients across a wide range of planning areas, including investment advisory services and 401(k) plan consulting. She is involved in all aspects of the firm’s operations, helping ensure both regulatory integrity and a seamless client experience.
Darlene began her career in finance in 2000 with UBS PaineWebber, where she worked as a Sales Assistant supporting the Assistant Branch Manager and senior advisors. She later transitioned to independent firms, serving as Director of Operations at Jim Lee Financial and Director of Marketing with Todd Lenhoff, gaining extensive experience across both operational and client-facing functions.
She joined Seaside Financial & Insurance Services in January 2016. Known for her strong relationship-building skills and attention to detail, Darlene plays an integral role in delivering a high level of service to individuals and families. She brings a deep commitment to compliance, organization, and personalized care in every client interaction.
Beyond her professional role, Darlene is a dedicated advocate for her daughter and for other families navigating educational, social, and healthcare systems for children with special needs. She actively supports parents in understanding and advocating within school districts and related systems, reflecting her broader commitment to helping others navigate complex life and financial decisions.
Education & Licenses
Darlene holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management with a concentration in Business Administration and Human Resources.
She has passed the following examination:
-
Series 65 – Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination
She also holds a Life and Health Insurance License in California.
Alison Farin
Certified Pension Consultant
Alison Farrin is a Certified Pension Consultant and serves in an advisory role at Seaside Advisory Services, specializing in the design and integration of complex retirement plan solutions within comprehensive financial planning strategies.
Alison began her career in financial services in 1979 on the Bond Administration desk at Bateman Eichler. Over the course of her career, she has developed extensive experience across Corporate Finance, Private Placement Structuring, and Business Planning. For more than 22 years, she has focused on qualified retirement plan design and administration, providing tailored solutions to meet the needs of businesses and plan participants.
Education & Licenses
Alison holds a Bachelor of Science degree from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
She has passed the following FINRA examinations:
-
Series 7 – General Securities Representative
-
Series 63 – Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination
-
Series 65 – Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination
She also holds a Life and Health Insurance License in California.
Professional Registrations & Disclosures
Alison Farrin is registered as an Investment Adviser Representative with Seaside Advisory Services, through which she offers investment advisory services on a fee-based basis.
