Employee Spotlight: Libby Gaines

Meet Libby Gaines

What is your title at Badgley Phelps?
Client Service Associate

What’s your favorite part of working with clients?

My favorite part of working with clients is the opportunity to connect with them and build lasting, trusted relationships. We’re often involved in some of the most important moments in our clients’ lives, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be able to support them and be a part of those experiences.

How has your experience of driving growth in the private equity and venture capital space prepared you for your role at Badgley?

Driving growth and visibility in the private equity and venture capital space taught me the critical importance of building strong relationships. In a smaller city like Boise, where I previously lived, having a reliable network to lean on is essential. A strong network can open doors. Whether that means making introductions, connecting with sources of capital or investors, or simply gaining valuable industry insight. In a smaller market especially, the ability to tap into these relationships when needed can make a meaningful difference, which is why cultivating connections is so important.

What do you look forward to doing after a long workday or on weekends? 

After a long day or on weekends, I look forward to being able to unwind with my favorite reality TV show, usually a “Real Housewives” of some sort, and cooking a big meal. I also love spending time outside when the weather is permitting and being able to move as much as possible.

Can you share a pivotal moment when a client reached out to you, and you went above and beyond to solve a problem or fulfill their request?  

During the most recent year-end cycle, a client needed to take a required minimum distribution (RMD) from a 401(k) account with a high level of administrative complexity. Due to how the account was established and the involvement of multiple plan administrators, navigating the process required careful coordination and persistence. By working closely with both the client and the administrators and taking the time to thoroughly analyze the account, we uncovered additional details that led to a solution. This approach allowed us not only to meet the immediate RMD requirement but also to resolve several related issues, creating a smoother, more efficient outcome that would not have been possible without a deep dive into the details.

Client services requires strong attention to detail and the ability to juggle competing priorities. How do you stay organized and manage your workflow? 

This role requires a great deal of multitasking and prioritization. On a team level, staying organized and managing workflow is heavily supported by Salesforce. On a personal level, I rely on handwritten to-do lists and a more traditional approach to organization, as writing things down helps them stick mentally. I also use my calendar diligently, blocking time for top priorities to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.  A large part of this role is also being able to stay on your toes and work in a fast-paced manner—things pop up when least expected, and you must be ready to adapt and re-prioritize!

If you could have dinner with any person (past or present), who’s at the table?

Anthony Bourdain. He inspired my love for travel, food, and experiencing the world. The opportunity to share a meal with him, witness his expertise, and hear his stories and perspectives in real time would truly be a dream come true.

Since joining the firm, what do you enjoy most about your position and being a part of the Badgley Phelps team?

Aside from loving the work I do with clients, the team at Badgley has made my experience the most special. The team here is so incredibly supportive and uplifting, and everyone helps each other out in any way they can. It makes coming to work every day a breath of fresh air.

What’s something clients often don’t realize goes on behind the scenes to support them?

Clients may not always see the work happening behind the scenes, but our focus is always on them. Before bringing anything to their attention, we carefully explore every possible solution and option to ensure the best outcome. Our priority is to make things as seamless as possible for our clients and to deliver an exceptional experience at every step.

If you could take a dream trip anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? 

This is a tough choice; there are so many incredible places on my travel list. Two of my top options are the Amalfi Coast and Singapore. I’ve spent a fair amount of time traveling in Europe, but the Amalfi Coast is somewhere I haven’t been yet. Singapore has always fascinated me as well, though it feels like a destination I want to save for after I gain a bit more travel experience.

Final Thoughts

Libby’s consistency—listen closely, organize the details, and follow through—reflects the service philosophy we value. We’re grateful for the professionalism she brings to our clients and our team each day.