Anchor Investment Management, LLC announces leadership promotions

Anchor Investment Management, LLC, a Columbia-based wealth management firm, has announced three leadership promotions as the firm marks 25 years of serving clients. Laura Culler has been promoted to chief financial officer, Birgit “Sam” Lumpkin has been promoted to chief operating officer and Brian Blackwelder, CFP®, has joined the firm’s ownership group as a principal.

The leadership appointments strengthen Anchor’s executive team and recognize three longtime financial services professionals who will help guide the firm’s next chapter of growth. The promotions also reflect Anchor’s continued investment in the people, operations and client relationships that have shaped the firm.

“Laura, Sam and Brian each embody the values that have defined Anchor for the past 25 years,” said John Moorman, managing principal of Anchor Investment Management, LLC. “They are trusted leaders who have helped strengthen our firm, support our clients and position us for the future. I’m excited to recognize their contributions through these well-deserved promotions.”

Laura Culler Named Chief Financial Officer

As chief financial officer, Culler oversees Anchor’s financial strategy, reporting and long-term fiscal planning. She joined Anchor in 2025 and brings nearly three decades of experience in accounting and financial leadership, including senior roles with McNair Law Firm and as director of finance for the towns of Chapin and Winnsboro. A graduate of Presbyterian College with degrees in business administration and accounting, Culler brings extensive experience in financial operations, budgeting and strategic planning to the role.

Birgit “Sam” Lumpkin Named Chief Operating Officer

As chief operating officer, Lumpkin leads Anchor’s day-to-day operations, as well as the systems and processes that support the firm’s clients and employees. Since joining Anchor in 2013, Lumpkin has played an integral role in managing firm operations while helping foster the collaborative, client-first culture that defines Anchor. In her expanded leadership role, she will focus on operational excellence, organizational efficiency and the infrastructure needed to support the firm’s continued growth.

Brian Blackwelder, CFP®, Named Principal

Blackwelder has been named a principal of Anchor, joining the firm’s ownership group after serving as senior relationship manager since 2021. Blackwelder brings more than 25 years of financial services experience across banking, mortgage lending and wealth management. A graduate of Presbyterian College, he works closely with individuals and families to develop customized financial plans through Anchor’s collaborative, team-based approach. As a principal, Blackwelder will help guide the firm’s strategic direction while continuing to advise and serve clients throughout the Southeast.

Building on 25 Years of Wealth Management

The leadership changes come as Anchor celebrates 25 years of providing comprehensive wealth management services to individuals, families, trusts and corporations.

Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Columbia, S.C., Anchor is a boutique wealth management firm providing personalized attention and creative solutions to create financial peace of mind for clients in every phase of life. As the firm looks toward its next 25 years, the expanded leadership team will help support Anchor’s continued growth while preserving the firm’s commitment to providing personalized, transparent and reliable financial solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.

About Anchor Investment Management, LLC

Anchor Investment Management, LLC (Anchor) is a boutique wealth management firm located in Columbia, South Carolina, providing custom financial services to individuals, families, trusts and corporations across the Southeast and beyond. Founded in 2000, Anchor specializes in investment management, education funding, insurance analysis, estate planning, charitable giving, financial planning and tax planning. Built on a foundation of collaboration and transparency, Anchor provides personalized attention and creative solutions to create financial peace of mind. For more information, visit AnchorInvestmentManagement.com.