Title: Senior Managing Director
Firm: Backstrom McCarley Berry & Co., LLC
Age: 39
Pharris Langston isn't afraid of hard work. Pharris began her career with Backstrom McCarley Berry & Co., LLC, as an intern in 2008. Over the past decade and a half, she has steadily expanded her responsibilities and expertise, serving in numerous roles across the firm, culminating in her promotion to senior managing director in 2025.
Pharris leads the implementation, renewal and replacement of credit facilities for the firm's municipal advisory clients while also overseeing the underwriting desk and back-office operations. Her ability to adapt, learn and excel across a wide range of functions has made her an invaluable asset to the firm.
"I love what I do because it involves continuous learning, whether it's navigating a pricing or the ever-evolving compliance requirements, I am always learning. There's always an opportunity to expand my knowledge and develop a new skill," says Pharris.
Over the years, Pharris has had strong support at Backstrom, including from the founding members: Vincent McCarley, Don Backstrom and Leonard Berry. "The firm has been very supportive of my career and helped me balance my career and family life. Not everyone has that. I am grateful," says Pharris, a mother of four.
Pharris certainly pays it forward. She actively supports the training and development of employees entering the municipal finance profession. She's been a positive role model generously sharing technical knowledge, explaining complex concepts and providing guidance on client transactions. Her support has helped new professionals build confidence, develop critical skills and contribute meaningfully to our project goals, says McCarley.
Pharris holds a B.S. in finance from the University of San Francisco and is a registered Municipal Advisor Principal and Municipal Securities Principal.
