George W. Hawkins

Managing Partner
Chief Investment Officer

George Hawkins is the Managing Partner of Hawkins Laakso Wealth Management (HL), which he co-founded with his business partner, Chris Laakso, in 2005. With over four decades of experience in the financial industry, George is an experienced manager with a focus research and economics. He specializes in advising high net-worth families on asset management and investment strategies, providing them with personalized solutions that align with their unique financial goals. George's commitment to excellence and his unwavering dedication to his clients have earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor in the wealth management industry.

George has a multi-decade career. He began his journey in commercial banking, where he spent five years honing his skills. He then moved on to the fixed-income trading floor, where he spent a decade filling various roles in marketing, fixed-income security trading, management, and recruitment. After that, George spent two years with an investment banking firm, where he worked closely with the principals to develop new investment advisory and banking relationships. Following this position, he managed a private, leveraged portfolio for a group of high net-worth investors.

In 1998, George joined AXA Advisors (now Equitable Advisors) where he built and managed a district of financial professionals as Vice President from 2000-2005. Throughout his career, George has received numerous awards with Equitable Advisors, including AXA Centurion, AXA Gold, AXA Circle of Excellence, Hallmark I, II, III, IV, V, the prestigious Excalibur award, and has earned a place of honor in the Equitable Hall of Fame.

Each award was granted for either integrity, exceeding financial benchmarks, leadership, or honoring his long-standing tenure with the company. George's impressive track record speaks volumes about his dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. His achievements are a testament to his unwavering work ethic and his ability to consistently exceed expectations.

George is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Houston Business School and a lifetime member of the esteemed Lambda Chi Alpha International Fraternity. He completed the AXA Institute at Harvard in 2012 and 2016, a specialized training program in finance, asset allocation, and management. George is an active participant in regular portfolio analysis meetings with a renowned global economist and holds several FINRA financial registrations, including Series 7, 63, 65, 53, and 24.

George possesses an impressive financial background and is equally dedicated to giving back to his community. He holds multiple positions of responsibility, which include sitting on the Legacy Operating Board, serving as the Vice Chair for the Legacy Endowment Board, and being a member of the Advisory Board for the Legacy Community Health Planned Giving Committee. Additionally, George is a Founding Member with Equitable National Diversity Committee, where he actively supports the advancement of diversity within the Equitable community. George's passion for animal welfare is also evident in his support of numerous animal rights organizations. He supports and promotes dog rescue with the SPCA in Houston and Muttville in San Francisco.

George has a rich history of leadership and advocacy, having previously served as a Human Rights Campaign Governor and an AXA National Associates Forum (NAF) Committee Member. George's unwavering dedication to making a difference is evident in his exceptional service to his clients. He consistently creates a positive impact in his community, leaving a lasting impression on those he encounters.

As a proud Houstonian, George splits his time between Houston, TX and San Francisco, CA with his partner Garret and their five beloved rescue dogs. Together, they share a passion for travel, fitness, and the arts, particularly culinary experiences.

Christopher M. Laakso

Managing Partner
Retirement Planning Specialist

Chris launched his career at Equitable in 2001 as an associate planner, where he honed his skills in developing a Financial Planning practice through personal and professional relationships. In 2005, he joined forces with his mentor, George Hawkins, to establish Hawkins Laakso Wealth Management (HL), where Chris currently serves as one of the Managing Partners, specializing in Financial Planning and Asset Protection.

Since its inception, HL has grown exponentially under Chris's leadership, transforming into a planning-focused practice that caters to the unique needs of its clients. Chris's unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and personalized solutions has been instrumental in the firm's success. As a result, HL has become a trusted partner for individuals and businesses seeking expert financial guidance.

Over the years, Chris's role at HL has evolved to encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including strategic planning, business development, and client relationship management. His expertise and dedication have been critical in shaping the firm's culture and driving its growth. Today, Chris continues to play a pivotal role in HL's success, ensuring that the firm remains at the forefront of the industry and delivers unparalleled value to its clients.

Chris has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the DSF of the Year - Houston Branch and National Leaders Corp awards in 2005. He also received the Centurion award for outstanding production from 2007 to 2013 and the Circle of Excellence award from 2014 to 2016. In 2015, Chris achieved the "Hall of Fame" distinction for his outstanding production over 10 years, commemorated through a digital wall of fame at Equitable Headquarters in New York City. In 2020, Chris achieved Bronze Eagle, Excalibur, and Hallmark III accolades.

Chris has an impressive production record and is actively involved in the National Associates Forum (NAF), an advisory board within Equitable that discusses issues, improvements, and product design. He was elected to the NAF in 2013 and served as Chair of the Marketing and Communications Committee and the Annuity Committee in 2014. In 2017, he was elected Vice Chair by the Executive Committee and Officers of the NAF. As Chairman in 2018, Chris attended the New York Stock Exchange when Equitable went public, highlighting his importance within the organization. His leadership within the NAF has driven positive change, demonstrating his commitment to improving Equitables products and services. Chris's dedication and achievements make him a valuable asset to Equitable and HL.

Chris is a Portland native who attended Parkrose High School before playing college baseball at Clackamas CC. He then transferred to the University of Colorado at Boulder, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting and Information Systems. Chris holds several licenses, including the Series 7 - General Securities Representative, Series 66 - Uniform Combined State Law License, and the General Lines Insurance License. To maintain his licenses, Chris completes 30 hours of continuing education every two years.

In 2013, Chris attended The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania to earn his designation as a Retirement Planning Specialist. This program, designed by Equitable and Wharton, equips Equitable Advisors with the skills and knowledge to address the ever-changing challenges faced by individuals and families at retirement. Chris was so committed to this program that he attended the Wharton School again in 2015 as a cohort.

Chris is a committed member of the University of Colorado community. He has held leadership roles, including President of the Houston Chapter of the Alumni Association from 2002-2004 and Committee Chair on the Board of Directors for the Boulder Alumni Association from 2002-2006. Chris continues to give back as a Professional Mentor for the Leeds School of Business, guiding and supporting students as they prepare for successful careers.

In addition to his work with the University of Colorado, Chris is also deeply committed to supporting charitable organizations in his community. One such organization is Legacy Community Health, which provides vital healthcare services to low-income communities throughout the Houston area. Chris is currently the Chairman of the Golf Committee for the Frank Billingsley Golf Classic, an event that raises funds to support Legacy's School Based Health Clinics. Through his leadership and dedication, Chris is making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Chris has lived in Houston since 1999 with his wife Brandy and their three daughters, Samantha, Peyton, and Cali. He is a dedicated family man who enjoys spending time with his loved ones and giving back to his community.

Keaton Shaw

Assistant Vice President
Wealth Advisor

Keaton, a Houston native and University of St. Thomas alumnus, has played a crucial role in the success of Hawkins Laakso Wealth Management (HL) for the past five years. As Director of Rising Stars, he leads a program designed to nurture the next generation of successful entrepreneurs and professionals by providing them with access to HL's financial tools and expertise.

Keaton's leadership skills have been instrumental in HL's growth. He has played a pivotal role in the planning and investment side of the firm, ensuring clients receive the highest level of service. Keaton's dedication to his craft is evident in his licensing in Life and Health Insurance in TX, as well as his completion of the FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 examinations.

Under Keaton's guidance, the Rising Stars program has flourished, and many young professionals have benefited from his mentorship. Keaton's extensive knowledge of the financial industry, coupled with his exceptional communication skills, has made him an invaluable asset to HL. He is dedicated to ensuring that the Rising Stars program continues to thrive and that the next generation of entrepreneurs and professionals has the tools and resources they need to succeed.

In summary, Keaton's journey from an entry-level position to Director of Rising Stars is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and leadership skills. His contributions to HL have been vital, and his commitment to providing exceptional service to clients is unwavering.

Liam Doherty James

Assistant Vice President
Head of Operations

Liam is an experienced professional in operational business development, with a proven track record of success in the financial services industry. He joined Hawkins Laakso (HL) in 2020 and has since held every operational role at the firm, culminating in his current position as the head of the operations department. Liam is dedicated to ensuring that the firm operates with maximum efficiency, effectiveness, and scalability.

In 2023, Liam earned his BBA degree in Finance and embarked on his MBA journey with a Graduate Certificate in Investment Management at the University of Houston-Downtown. He is licensed in Life and Health Insurance in TX and has successfully completed his FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 examinations, demonstrating his commitment to professional development and excellence.

Liam is a proud Houstonian, born and raised in the city. He is supported at home by his girlfriend Gabby and his dog Blu.

Josh Sanchez

Wealth Advisor

Josh originally joined HL in 2020 as an operations staff team member and as of 2023 has transitioned to becoming one of our financial professionals. During his time with the firm, Josh was also able to graduate from the University of St. Thomas with his MBA/BBA degree in Finance in May of 2023.

In addition to being a student, Josh was also a member of the university's men’s basketball team. Over the course of his college career, Josh was a 4 year-starter on the basketball team and helped contribute to 4 years of back-to-back conference championships. This was also where Josh met our Rising Star Director, and UST Men’s basketball alumni, Keaton Shaw. Josh is licensed in Life and Health Insurance in TX & has completed his FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 examinations. Josh was born and raised in McAllen, TX.

Justin Reed

Wealth Advisor

Before joining HL, Justin cut his teeth as a nonprofit fundraiser managing a portfolio of more than 100 relationships in the southwestern United States for the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation. A graduate of the University of Texas, Justin has always been passionate about serving others. In his role as a Financial Professional, Justin is helping families build wealth so they can focus on what truly matters most — the freedom to enjoy their life. When he is not spending time with clients, you can find Justin exploring Houston with his Fiancée, Jessie.

Justine Sliker-Pizzitola

Marketing Strategist

Justine Sliker-Pizzitola plays a critical role on our Operations Team; curating first class client events, providing unparalleled service and meticulous attention to detail in scheduling client appointments, and striving for operational excellence in every aspect of our firm to benefit our clients.

Micah Couch

Operations Specialist

Micah Couch is a licensed Financial Professional with the Equitable Preferred Client Partners Group (PCPG). Specializing in retirement planning strategies, insurance planning, investment management and risk management. He is FINRA Series 7 and 66 Licensed as well as Life and health insurance licensed in 50 states.

CA Insurance Lic #0J18929 AR Insurance Lic #16288317

Kaleb Sanders

Wealth Advisor

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