Meet the professionals who can help you pursue your goals

We help individuals and families work toward achieving their ideal retirements.

Meet The NuVenture Financial Group Team

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Advisory Team

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Bob Horne, RICP® CEO / President / Financial Advisor

Bob Horne, RICP®

CEO / President / Financial Advisor

Bob’s goal is to empower clients to make informed decisions and help accomplish their retirement income goals.

When entering the financial services industry, Bob served as an assistant vice president and branch manager for HSBC Bank. In an effort to find a professional atmosphere that matched his own commitment to building client relationships, Bob made a career change to specifically focus on retirement strategies. After working as an advisor with two local Jacksonville firms for 7 years, he decided to pursue his entrepreneurial vision and launched NuVenture Financial Group in 2019. As the CEO of NuVenture, Bob uses his passion for problem solving to help individuals and families with their long-term retirement strategies.

Bob has passed the Series 6, 63, and 65 securities exams and carries a life, health, and annuity license in Florida. He has also obtained the industry leading Retirement Income Certified Professional® (RICP®) designation.

Bob resides in Mandarin, Florida, with his wife and four daughters. In his spare time, he enjoys being outdoors and spending time with his family. Additionally, Bob is actively involved with his church and previously served as the treasurer on the board of directors with the local nonprofit organization Hart Felt Ministries. He is a founding member and past president of both the Capital Gain Chapter of Business Networking International (BNI) and Core Network Referral Group (CNRG).

Insurance products are offered through the insurance business Nuventure Financial Group. NuVenture Financial Group is also an Investment Advisory practice that offers products and services through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM), a Registered Investment Advisor. AEWM does not offer insurance products. The insurance products offered by NuVenture Financial Group are not subject to Investment Advisor requirements. 

 

Perfect Day:

As a father of four beautiful girls and a husband to an amazing wife, I could think of no better way to start my perfect day than time spent with them. You could also find me in the quiet, serene forests hoping to catch a mature buck or wild turkey, followed by a home cooked meal and glass of bourbon with my closest loved ones.

 

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Kiplinger

Read Hidden Obstacles May Snag Your Retirement? 5 Key Points to Consider

The appearances in Kiplinger were obtained through a PR program. The columnist received assistance from a public relations firm in preparing this piece for submission to Kiplinger.com. Kiplinger was not compensated in any way.

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Jenna Simpson, CFP® VP of Operations / Financial Advisor

Jenna Simpson, CFP®

VP of Operations / Financial Advisor

Jenna was raised in Southwest Florida and moved to Jacksonville to attend The University of North Florida in 2012. At UNF she dual majored and graduated in 2016 with a Bachelors in Finance and a Bachelors in Financial Services from one of the top 5 programs in the country. During her senior year she entered the financial services industry, working for New York Life in a commissions-only role. Realizing that “salesperson” was not the role for her, she transferred to the other extreme and worked for a fee-only boutique firm in Jacksonville.

Limited in her growth and learning opportunities, Jenna joined NuVenture’s independent firm. NuVenture offered her freedom to explore many financial needs her clients may face, and they have continuously encouraged her to continue her education. After many years of study, dedication, and the support of her team, she obtained her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ mark.

Working under the independent umbrella of NuVenture, she has the ability to advise others and develop strong relationships with the clients she works with. Jenna is an Investment Adviser Representative and aims to help assist the families she works with in their financial goals through decade’s long relationships. She enjoys engaging with these families and helping them with their retirement. Her goal is to increase the financial literacy for all she works with and within the community.

Outside of work, Jenna and her husband Michael enjoy travelling to and camping in National Parks, watching their favorite sci-fi shows, and enjoying crafts. However, continuing education, advancement in her field, and the continuing growth and development of NuVenture Financial Group is always at the top of her mind.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S., which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

 

Perfect Day:

A perfect day for me would have to start with a hot cup of coffee and quality time with my family. I would then gear up for a mountainous hike with my husband and my dog to see the beautiful views a mountaintop has to offer. After a day spent outdoors, I would come home and share a delicious meal, made from scratch of course, and end the day with a movie on the couch.

 

Learn More About Jenna

Kiplinger

Read Avoid Retirement Regrets: Five Facts to Learn Now, Not Later

The appearances in Kiplinger were obtained through a PR program. The columnist received assistance from a public relations firm in preparing this piece for submission to Kiplinger.com. Kiplinger was not compensated in any way.

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Jacob McLeod Financial Advisor

Jacob McLeod

Financial Advisor

Jacob was born and raised in Jacksonville, spending much of his childhood in the Fruit Cove area. He joined the NuVenture team full-time as a Launch Advisor in May 2024 after previously serving the firm as an intern and paraplanner. Since joining the advisory team full-time, Jacob has focused on building meaningful relationships with both new and existing clients.

Before returning to NuVenture, Jacob received his undergraduate degree in finance and philosophy from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College, one of the nation's top business schools. During his time in Boston, he embraced the challenges of a rigorous academic environment while gaining valuable new experiences and an appreciation for New England culture.

Jacob is passionate about retirement planning because it combines his strengths in finance with his desire to help others. He is committed to guiding families through the retirement planning process with clarity and confidence, helping them make informed decisions so they can fully enjoy the retirement they deserve. His faith remains central to both his personal and professional life, shaping his commitment to serving others with integrity and care.

Outside of the office, Jacob enjoys spending time with friends, family, and his wife, Madison. In his free time, you can often find him boating on the St. Johns River, exploring new restaurants, attending church, and cheering on his favorite sports teams, like the Dallas Cowboys.

Perfect Day:

My perfect day is simple, but meaningful - I would spend time with friends and family, enjoy a fishing trip, and watch Sunday Night football while cooking out and listening to some classic rock.

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Ethan Robertson Managing Financial Advisor

Ethan Robertson

Managing Financial Advisor

Ethan brings a wealth of experience and a passion for helping others to his role at NuVenture Financial Group. Born and raised in Jacksonville's Mandarin neighborhood, Ethan grew up in a large family and learned early on the value of hard work and perseverance.

He gained valuable experience in financial services during his 14 successful years in the automotive industry, helping clients navigate vehicle financing options while also developing a strong foundation in customer service, problem-solving, and relationship-building. This blend of financial expertise and client-centered service has seamlessly transitioned into his work at NuVenture Financial Group.

As part of the NuVenture team, Ethan enjoys bringing his skills and work ethic into a company known for its integrity, high standards, and dedication to positively impacting families. He takes pride in simplifying financial strategies and helping clients work toward a secure and confident retirement.

Outside of work, Ethan is a proud father to three boys—two being twins! In his free time, he stays involved in the Jacksonville community by coaching youth football and baseball. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending quality time with family and friends. Ethan considers the Bible to be the greatest self-help guide ever written and strives to live out its lessons daily. Coming from humble beginnings, he values hard work and is passionate about serving NuVenture families with integrity and purpose.

Perfect Day:

A perfect day for me includes coaching my youth football and baseball teams, spending time outdoors with my sons and family, and enjoying a good hunting trip with friends.

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Operations Department

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Dawn Ackerman Office Manager

Dawn Ackerman

Office Manager

Raised in Jacksonville for most of her life, Dawn spent more than 25 years building a successful career in the mortgage industry before taking a leap of faith and transitioning to NuVenture Financial Group over three years ago.

Since joining the team, Dawn has continued to grow both professionally and personally, embracing new challenges and opportunities while helping support the continued success and culture of NuVenture. Known for her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and determination, Dawn takes pride in creating meaningful relationships and being someone her team can depend on. She is passionate about continuous growth and strives each day to make a positive impact on those around her.

Outside of work, Dawn’s greatest joy comes from spending time with her husband, family, and friends. She also loves to travel, make memories with the people she loves most, and spoil
her two beloved fur babies, Dunkin’ and Darla.


Perfect Day:

My perfect day starts slow - mimosa in hand, sunshine coming up, and no rush to be anywhere except with the people I love most. The morning begins out on the boat with my husband, casting lines, laughing, and enjoying the peace that only being on the water can bring.

Some of the best moments are the quiet ones in between bites - music playing, warm Florida air, and simply soaking in time together. After a day on the water, it’s back home to spend time with friends, sharing food, stories, and lots of laughs. Nothing fancy - just good people, good conversation, and making memories with the ones who matter most.

To top it all off, the evening involves golf cart rides with my two furbabies, enjoying the breeze with their ears flapping and tails wagging. For me, a perfect day isn’t about big plans or busy schedules - it’s about quality time, feeling grateful, and being surrounded by family, friends, laughter, and love.

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Lisa Ginter Client Experience Manager AFC®

Lisa Ginter

Client Experience Manager AFC®

Lisa and her family have proudly called St. Augustine home for the past 22 years. Her career began as a Human Resource Assistant for a Mortgage Corporation where her leadership and dedication quickly advanced her into the role of Human Resource Manager.

In 1990, Lisa took a leap of faith and launched her own company as an independent financial planner. Her company grew into a comprehensive financial planning practice, and she went on to earn the AFC® (Accredited Financial Counselor) designation.

After two decades of building her business, Lisa chose to step back to focus on raising her two daughters, while continuing to nurture long-standing client relationships. Once her daughters were grown, Lisa felt called to return to the financial field in a supportive and educational capacity. She accepted a contract to serve as a Personal Financial Counselor for the military providing counseling and education to service members on how to achieve financial readiness—believing firmly that being “mission ready” included being “financially ready”. Having grown up in a military family, Lisa often shares that it was truly an honor and privilege to serve those who serve our country.

Following the completion of that role, Lisa joined NuVenture Financial Group as the Client Experience Manager. Her depth of experience, knowledge and compassion make her a great addition to the NuVenture family.

Lisa’s heart for service extends beyond her professional life. Deeply grounded in her faith, she actively serves alongside her church family, supports charitable fundraising efforts, and cherishes time spent with her family, their fur baby Rosie, and close friends.


Perfect Day:

My perfect day would include sailing or boating with my family while listening to music, playing games, reading, relaxing, enjoying great food, and partaking in good conversation with those closest to me.

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April McLain Sr. Client Engagement Coordinator

April McLain

Sr. Client Engagement Coordinator

April joined NuVenture Financial Group in March 2023, bringing with her a genuine passion for people, community, and meaningful connections. A resident of St. Augustine for more than 20 years, she enjoys spending her free time exploring the charm of the historic downtown area, relaxing at the beach, camping, going on cruises and chasing sunsets.

Known for her creativity and warm personality, April loves staying busy with gardening, home decorating, and cooking new recipes. She is a proud mother of three, one beautiful daughter and two handsome sons — and treasures her newest and favorite title: Gemma to 2 grandchildren.

April’s heart for service extends far beyond the office. In 2011, she founded Socks for the Soul – St. Augustine, FL, a community initiative focused on providing new socks and support to individuals experiencing homelessness and local shelters. Guided by compassion, kindness, and a deep love for helping others, April believes in making people feel seen, valued, and cared for. Her outlook on life is simple: lead with love, serve with purpose, and always strive to “be the good” in the world.

Perfect Day:

My perfect day is simple and peaceful — no alarms, no rushing, and nowhere I have to be. I’d spend slow mornings relaxing at home, tending to my flowers and plants, or trying a new recipe. Some days would be spent by the pool, cruising the beach at sunset, or exploring a nearby small town just for the adventure. Most importantly, I’d finally have the time to visit far away friends, making lasting memories.

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Candace Monroe Client Experience Coordinator

Candace Monroe

Client Experience Coordinator

Joining Nuventure in May 2025, Candace brings over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and financial industries to the Client Experience team. Prior to joining our team, Candace held leadership roles in the areas of development, fundraising, and management supporting the missions of various nonprofit organizations. She is passionate about building relationships and meeting people where they are. A quote that guides her life journey is “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel” – Maya Angelou.

She is looking forward to connecting with our families with her warmth and smile! Candace was born and raised in Jacksonville and holds a bachelor’s degree from The University of Florida. In her free time, she enjoys time with friends and family, volunteering, dining out, spending time soaking up the Florida sun, and all things college football – Go Gators!

Perfect Day:

My ideal day includes sunshine, a good pool playlist, Aperol spritzes, football, good food, and even better company. The most important thing for me would be the people I spend my perfect day with, like my family and closest friends with smiles on our faces.

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Gretchen Barker Operations Manager

Gretchen Barker

Operations Manager

Gretchen joined the NuVenture family in December 2023 as an Operations Specialist, bringing with her more than 15 years of experience in the mortgage industry. Her attention to detail, dedication, and strong commitment to helping others have allowed her to transition seamlessly into her role, where she continues to make a meaningful impact on both the team and the clients NuVenture serves.

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Gretchen values family above all else. Her husband and their two children are the center of her world, and some of her greatest joys come from supporting them through life’s milestones, spending quality time together, and creating lasting memories. With her son preparing for college and daughter preparing for her Junior year of high school, this season of life is especially meaningful to her.

Outside of spending quality family time you can find her at the beach, thrifting or enjoying date nights with her husband.

 

Perfect Day:

Waking up late to a perfect 80 degrees outside, I would spend my morning making breakfast for the family. We would then head to the beach to find Sharks teeth, body surf the waves and throw the football. After a day at the beach, we would come home, grill out, and watch a movie together.

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Sylvia Lara Sr. Operations Coordinator

Sylvia Lara

Sr. Operations Coordinator

Sylvia joined the NuVenture family in September 2022 as part of the Operations team, bringing with her more than 30 years of experience in the financial industry. Throughout her career, she has built lasting relationships through her genuine care for others, strong work ethic, and natural ability to connect with clients and teammates alike.

After relocating to Jacksonville in 2017, Sylvia quickly knew she had found a place to call home and has never looked back. A true foodie at heart, she loves discovering new restaurants and experiences around the city. When she’s not exploring Jacksonville’s food scene, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and relaxing by the pool or at the beach.

Outside of work, Sylvia’s two furry babies, Hans and Charlotte, keep life joyful, full of love and laughter. Her warm personality, dedication, and compassionate spirit make her a valued part of the NuVenture team and the relationships she builds every day.


Perfect Day:

My perfect day would include, most importantly, being fully retired! A day in my life as a retiree would start with exploring new restaurants or hole-in-the wall eateries with friends, trying to find my next favorite spot. I would then spend some time outdoors, like the pool or beach, and end the day relaxing with my two fur babies.

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Joy Forbess Operations Coordinator

Joy Forbess

Operations Coordinator

Joy was born and raised in Florida, and attended the University of Central Florida where she received a Bachelors in Business Administration. This led Joy to pursue her career in the financial services industry, now having over 25 years of experience.

Because of her experience and extensive knowledge in financial services, she knows how important it is to take care of clients’ needs and assist them in navigating their retirement journey. Joy hopes to make a meaningful impact on each family that crosses NuVenture’s path.

Outside of work, Joy enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons. Some of her favorite things include dining out, attending wine tastings, reading, and traveling to new places.


Perfect Day:

My perfect day would consist of a cruise trip with my husband and two sons. Waking up to the sounds of the ocean and then enjoying a cup of coffee on the balcony while feeling the sea breeze is my ideal morning. Most importantly, I would spend time relaxing, enjoying all of the cruise amenities, and prioritizing time spent with my favorite people.

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Desiree McMillan, CDMP Sr. Marketing Coordinator

Desiree McMillan

Sr. Marketing Coordinator

Desiree was born and raised in Jacksonville, FL, and still resides here with her soon-to-be husband. She graduated from UNF in 2020 with a Bachelors in Business Management and a Minor in Marketing. A couple of years after graduating, she wanted to see what this beautiful country has to offer, so she loaded up her three cats and took off to Colorado in her camper where she spent a summer before returning home.

Upon returning to Jacksonville in 2023, she joined the NuVenture Team as a Client Experience Specialist, and has since worked her way up to her current position, the Senior Marketing Coordinator. Her talent and hard work assist in making first impressions count with the families that she meets in hopes of positively impacting not only their retirement journey, but their day-to-day lives as a whole.

Outside of work, Desiree spends time volunteering at a local wildlife rehabilitation facility, raising awareness of the importance of protecting Florida’s wildlife, visiting local farmers’ markets, gardening, and spending time outdoors with her friends and family.


Perfect Day:

The only way to start my perfect day would be enjoying an iced coffee and cuddles from my three kids…whoops, I mean cats.

Next on the agenda would be spending time with my fiancee outdoors, whether it be fishing, looking for sharks’ teeth, gardening, or simply shopping at tractor supply or boot barn, while of course listening to country music throughout the day, preferably Morgan Wallen.

My day would then lead to time spent with family, followed by a delicious home-cooked meal. I would then wind down for the night by watching a movie or Netflix series while ending the day the same way it started - cuddles from my fur babies.

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Ashlyn Horne Marketing Manager

Ashlyn Horne

Marketing Manager

Ashlyn joined NuVenture in 2021 as an Administrative Assistant while beginning her college journey at the University of North Florida. With a passion for creativity and data-driven strategies, she pursued and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Marketing with a minor in Digital Marketing and Analytics.

After exploring various career paths post-graduation, she felt led to return to NuVenture. Ashlyn loves that this role allows her to use her God-given talents to make a meaningful impact and help others while driving NuVenture's mission forward.


Perfect Day:

My perfect day starts with a trip to the beach soaking up the sun and spending time with family and friends. I would then enjoy shopping around town, exploring local parks and restaurants, and making the most of the time I spend with those I love. To end the day, I would head out with my fiancée to listen to local bands or catch a live concert.

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Raizhay Lough Marketing Coordinator

Raizhay Lough

Marketing Coordinator

Raizhay joins the NuVenture Financial Group team as Marketing Coordinator, bringing a background rooted in strategic marketing, event coordination, and community engagement. A Louisiana native and proud LSU alumna, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a concentration in International Business.

Before joining NuVenture, Raizhay spent several years in the education sector, connecting families and their communities through marketing, events, and outreach initiatives. Outside of the office, Raizhay enjoys reading, baking, staying active, and spending time with her family and her three pets.


Perfect Day:

My perfect day would begin with an early gym session, followed by a long, relaxing brunch with my loved ones. The afternoon calls for a good movie or show, while my evening would be spent winding down with a face mask, a big slice of cheesecake, and getting lost in a good book.

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