Robert L. Nellson
Founder, Nellson Associates (Original Practice)
Robert Nellson founded Nellson Associates in 1997 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, drawing on three decades of executive experience in financial services to build an independent consulting practice specializing in bancassurance, mergers and acquisitions, corporate development, and venture capital.
His career spanned the highest levels of financial services — from management consulting at Booz Allen & Hamilton to corporate leadership roles at Fleet Financial Group, Barnett Banks, and The New England (MetLife). He brought that depth of experience to bear in founding a practice built on a straightforward premise: executives who have done the work are the most valuable consultants.
The firm that Jonathan and Jennifer Nellson operate today carries forward the name, the standards, and the ethos that Robert established.
At a Glance
- Founded NA, 1997
- Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
- MBA, University of Chicago
- BA Economics, Ohio Wesleyan
- U.S. Army Officer
Career
Booz Allen & Hamilton
Management Consultant
Began his career in management consulting at one of the world's premier strategy firms, building the analytical and advisory foundation that would define his professional trajectory.
Fleet Financial Group
Corporate Vice President, Corporate Development
Led corporate development through 30+ acquisitions that grew Fleet Financial Group from a $5 billion institution to $50 billion. Managed the full lifecycle of M&A activity — identification, due diligence, negotiation, integration — at a scale that reshaped the regional banking landscape.
Barnett Banks
Executive Director
Served as Executive Director at one of Florida's largest banking institutions, contributing to strategic direction and operational leadership.
The New England / MetLife
SVP to CEO
Rose from Senior Vice President to CEO, leading the organization through a period of strategic transformation in the insurance and financial services sector.
Nellson Associates
Founder · 1997 · Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
Founded his independent consulting practice, applying decades of executive experience to advise organizations on financial services strategy, bancassurance, M&A, corporate development, and venture capital.
Specialties
Bancassurance
Insurance distribution through banking channels
Mergers & Acquisitions
30+ acquisitions at Fleet Financial
Corporate Development
Strategic growth and institutional scaling
Venture Capital
Investment strategy and portfolio management
Published Works
So, You Want To Be A Consultant
Turn Your Experience As An Executive Into A Vital New Career
A practical, 244-page guide covering every decision an aspiring independent consultant will face — from self-assessment and pricing to client acquisition and knowing when to close the shop. Written from three decades of direct experience across Booz Allen, Fleet Financial, and independent practice.
30 chapters · 5 parts · 244 pages
Learn More About the Bookby Robert L. Nellson
Robert Nellson established the consulting practice, the professional standards, and the client-first ethos that define Nellson Associates. While he is no longer active in day-to-day consulting, his influence is present in every engagement the firm takes on. The firm that Jonathan and Jennifer Nellson operate today was built on the foundation he created.