Common misconceptions about data projects

(Full episode) . This Episode is also available as a video replay in our ⁠Conference Replays Library.⁠

Part 5 of our podcast miniseries featuring stage discussions and interviews from our annual conference, held on 18–19 November 2025. Recorded live. 

Your data is your most valuable asset—if you can harness it. See how family offices are connecting the tools they already use to unlock the full value of their data and operate from one trusted source of truth.

The panel brings together perspectives from a multi-generational family office optimising its existing systems, an established family office that has centralised its data into a single model, and a technology consultant helping family offices get more value from the systems they already use.

Topics:

• Why switching platforms often just moves the problem elsewhere

• The importance of standardising and governing data before automating

• Private investment data challenges and reconciliation at scale

• Centralising spreadsheets into a true “single source of truth”

• Using APIs, dashboards, and visualisation tools to improve visibility and control

• Why owning your data is critical for long-term flexibility, security, and scalability

• Common misconceptions about how long and how hard data transformation really is

SPEAKERS

Vivecca Hartman, Principal & Controller, Fayez Sarofim & Co.

Vivecca Hartman is a Principal and Controller with over 30 years of experience in investments and family office management. A licensed CPA and CFP, she combines financial expertise with a passion for helping others. Outside of work, Vivecca advocates for individuals with special needs and supports families in her community. She enjoys playing soccer, relaxing at the lake, and spending time with her grand kids.

Hannah Robertson, Accountant, Fayez Sarofim & Co.

Hannah Robertson, Accountant at Fayez Sarofim & Co., has over 10 years of diverse accounting experience and a passion for technology-driven efficiency. Hannah received a bachelor’s degree in accounting, Summa Cum Laude, from the University of Houston–Downtown in 2020. She specializes in leveraging SQL, VBA, and emerging tools to enhance reporting accuracy and scalability in investment accounting.

Matthew Espinosa, Senior Operations Manager, Ford Estates 

Matt Espinosa is a Senior Operations Manager at Ford Estates and a Strategic Operations & Business Leader with expertise in process optimization, cross-functional excellence, and long-term industry trends. Since joining in 2018, he has led portfolio accounting initiatives and strengthened the data behind process management across the organization. Previously, Matt held operations leadership roles at several Michigan-based registered investment advisory firms. He holds a B.S. in Mathematics and Economics from Eastern Michigan University.

MODERATOR

Greg Silverman, Principal Consultant, ClarityEdge 

I’m the founder and principal consultant of ClarityEdge LLC, a firm specializing in comprehensive technology consulting services for family offices. Our work spans software selection and implementation, data management, systems integration, and fractional CTO services - helping family offices optimize their technology infrastructure and achieve greater operational clarity.