Experience

Delivering the advice and solutions exceptional families seek

As Lead Advisor and relationship manager, Ajay oversees the team’s most sophisticated client relationships and sets the strategic direction of the practice. Drawing on his extensive capital markets and investment experience, he provides strategic counsel across asset allocation, alternative investments, structured solutions and other complex financial matters.

As a Private Wealth Advisor and Family Office Consultant (FOC), Ajay focuses on advising ultra-high-net-worth individuals, multigenerational families and family offices. He works closely with clients to navigate the complexities that accompany significant wealth, bringing together the global resources and capabilities of UBS to address their investment, wealth planning, business and legacy priorities.

FOC is a UBS business designation reserved for Financial Advisors with a track record of understanding the investment, business, passion and legacy needs of sophisticated clients and aligning those needs with the full suite of UBS capabilities.

Ajay earned his B.B.A. in Finance and Accounting from Iowa State University and his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He remains actively involved with Iowa State and currently serves on the Board of the Iowa State University Foundation.

Ajay and his wife reside in Naperville, Illinois, and have three children. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with his family, supporting his children’s academic and athletic pursuits, and giving back through educational and mentorship initiatives.  

Previous experience

• Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management
• Merrill Lynch Private Bank
• Founded and operated hedge fund
• Co-founded cash management firm
• Consultant with Accenture (formerly Anderson Consulting)

FINRA registrations and designations

• Series 3, 7 and 66 securities licenses

Ross works with high-net-worth individuals and families across investment and wealth planning matters, drawing on more than two decades of experience spanning private wealth management, private banking and the capital markets. He works closely with clients to understand their financial circumstances, priorities and long-term objectives and helps coordinate the resources and capabilities of UBS to address their needs.

As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), Ross also brings additional perspective to business owners and families preparing for business transitions, liquidity events and the financial decisions that accompany them.

Prior to joining UBS in 2020, Ross spent 12 years in private banking with J.P. Morgan and Citigroup in Chicago. Earlier in his career, he served as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones.

Ross began his financial-services career trading futures at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. His experience in the markets led him to co-found and manage a market-neutral hedge fund. Earlier in his career, Ross also held business development and global business analysis roles with Transora Corporation and Baxter Healthcare, including an international assignment in Vienna, Austria.

Ross earned B.B.A. degrees in Accounting and Management from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Ross and his wife, Heather, reside in Deerfield, Illinois, with their three children, Hayden, Isabelle and Brenden, and their dog, Badger. When not attending his children's hockey, dance and volleyball activities, Ross enjoys golf and spending time with family and friends.

Previous experience

• Prior to joining UBS in 2020, Ross spent 12 years in private banking with J.P. Morgan and Citigroup in Chicago.
• That followed two years as a financial advisor with Edward Jones. 
• Ross first entered the financial industry in 2002 when he traded futures at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange leading to the formation of a market neutral hedge fund which he managed until 2007.
• Previously Ross worked in business development for Transora Corporation, a business to business exchange in the consumer packaged goods industry, as well as a Global Business Analyst for Baxter Healthcare, where he had the opportunity to live in Vienna, Austria.

Education

• Ross has a BBA in both Accounting and Management from the University of Wisconsin School of Business in Madison.

As a Senior Wealth Strategy Associate with The Desai Group, Grant plays a key role in delivering tailored wealth management solutions to clients. His responsibilities include coordinating financial planning strategies, portfolio recommendations, performance reviews, and alternative investment opportunities. Dedicated to building lasting client relationships, Grant takes pride in helping individuals and families navigate complex financial decisions with confidence and clarity.

A graduate of Indiana University, Grant earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 2020 and joined UBS the following year. He holds the Series 7, 63, and 66 securities licenses and works collaboratively with clients and colleagues to deliver a high level of personalized service and strategic support.

Grant's favorite part of his role is helping clients gain peace of mind around their financial lives, enabling them to focus their time and energy on what matters most. Outside of the office, he enjoys traveling, staying active, and exploring Chicago.

Focus: Portfolio Analysis and Allocation, Investment Due Diligence and Relationship Management 

Education: B.A., Economics, Indiana University 

Henry Freedman serves as a Senior Wealth Strategy Associate with the Desai Group at UBS, where he supports clients through investment due diligence, portfolio monitoring, performance reporting, and client service coordination. In his role, Henry helps ensure that clients receive thoughtful, timely guidance tailored to their financial goals.

A native of Chicago's North Shore, Henry joined UBS directly after earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance from the University of Denver. Henry particularly enjoys building relationships with clients and values the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. He appreciates the meaningful conversations and unique experiences that come from helping clients navigate important financial decisions.

Outside of the office, Henry enjoys staying active, playing golf, spending time with friends and family, and enjoying the company of his dog.

Focus: Portfolio Allocation, Investment Due Diligence, Client Administration and Relationship management 

Education: B.S., Finance, University of Denver 

Aubrey serves as a Client Service Associate for the Desai Group, where she is dedicated to maintaining and strengthening client relationships through clear, proactive, and effective communication. In her role, she acts as a key point of contact, ensuring clients receive timely support and a seamless service experience.

Aubrey is committed to delivering a high standard of care, helping to create a positive and consistent client experience. She is particularly passionate about building meaningful connections with clients and values the opportunity to understand their unique goals and priorities.

Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Aubrey attended DePaul University and Valparaiso University, where she played collegiate soccer. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Advertising, with a minor in Spanish. Her experience as a student-athlete fostered a strong appreciation for teamwork and collaboration. Outside of the office, Aubrey enjoys exploring Chicago, practicing Pilates, and spending time with her family and friends.

Focus: Client Service, Administration and Relationship Management 

Education: B.A., Public Relations and Advertising, Valparaiso University 

Riley joined UBS after gaining valuable client-facing experience through an internship with a tax law practice, where she worked directly with clients navigating a variety of tax matters. Through this experience, she developed a passion for building strong client relationships and serving as a trusted resource for those she supports. It also reinforced the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, communicating clearly, and helping clients feel confident and informed throughout the decision-making process.

Originally from Louisiana, Riley earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Economics from The University of Mississippi in 2025. She further strengthened her financial expertise by pursuing an MBA with a concentration in Finance, which she completed in June 2026. Her educational background provides a strong foundation in business strategy, economics, and financial analysis.

Outside of work, Riley enjoys staying active through tennis and Pilates. She also loves spending time with friends and her dog. Since relocating to Chicago, she has enjoyed exploring the city, discovering new neighborhoods, and trying a variety of local restaurants.