OUR TEAM

President & Chief Compliance Officer(IAR)

Mario Nieto serves as the President of Desert Capital Management Group (DCMG) and is a Registered Investment Advisor Representative. Based in the firm’s Hermosa Beach office, Mario also oversees compliance operations, ensuring DCMG adheres to the highest regulatory and ethical standards.

As a native of California’s South Bay, Mario earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. After years of experience in client services, he transitioned into a career focused on helping individuals and families achieve their short- and long-term financial goals. Mario takes a personalized approach to financial strategies, starting with understanding each client’s unique story, motivations, and aspirations for the future.

Outside of work, Mario is passionate about outdoor activities, including swimming, running, and soccer. A lifelong learner, he stays informed on market trends by following financial texts and publications. Mario is also actively exploring opportunities to give back to his community and make a positive impact.

Stephanie Mearse has worked with Desert Capital Management Group as the Vice President since 2014. Stephanie has a BA in Business Management and an MBA in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. She has been a professional in Marketing for over 15 years and is a published author and motivational speaker featured on Radio Shows and Podcasts. From 2014 to 2019, she received the company's Top Performer Award for her commitment to excellence and outstanding performance.

Her book "Women of Perfection; Perfectly Imperfect," addresses the overwhelming expectations of women in today's society to be perfect. As a Speaker, she focuses on overcoming fear and self-imposed boundaries to achieve goals. Stephanie has a talk show on Sacramento's Money 105.5 FM, as well as a podcast Empower Hour. Stephanie is the President of The Butterfly Element, and a co-founder of Empower Hour, a women's networking group; both of which are non-profit organizations designed to help impoverished women and children.

In her personal life, Stephanie is dedicated to her family, friends, and church. She's actively involved in Rotary Club, The Women's Thursday Club, and her local Chamber of Commerce. Stephanie is passionate about impacting the lives of others and helping those she meets to achieve both their professional and personal goals.

Marketing Director of Southern California

Kelsey Markham serves as the Marketing Director for Southern California at DCMG, overseeing digital marketing strategies, print media campaigns, and the social media team. With a bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, specializing in Applied Ecology, and a minor in Sustainability from California State University, Chico, Kelsey combines her background in analytical methods with her passion for communication. She engages the community by connecting individuals with valuable financial services and opportunities offered through DCMG.

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CRD#: 322100. Learn more on the SEC website, or search our current CRD number on Broker Check.