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Talk to a Charlotte Financial Advisor Who Puts Your Goals First

Trusted financial advisors and planners helping individuals, families, and business owners build a clear path toward lasting wealth. Get matched with a Charlotte, Asheville, or broader North Carolina financial advisor today by filling out the form or calendar request.

We are where you are. Focus Partners Wealth is one of the largest RIAs in the U.S. with over $181 billion in client assets, over 600 advisors and 100 offices nationwide as of 1/1/2026.

Share a few details so we can match you with a local advisor that fits your needs.

For clients with $1M or more in investable assets

Investable assets include cash or cash equivalents, brokerage accounts (e.g. stocks, EFTs), savings, checking, CDs, 401(k), IRA, 403(b), and certain alternative or private investments.

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information about how we collect and use your personal information.

If you are a California resident, California law provides you with additional rights. To learn more about your California privacy rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”), please see our CCPA Privacy Notice.

 

Our Charlotte, Asheville, and broader North Carolina Advisor Locations 

We are where you are.

We proudly serve clients in all 50 states. No matter where you are in the country, our advice is always close at hand. 

  • Asheville | 111 Central Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
  • Cary | 2500 Regency Pkwy, Cary NC 27518
  • Charlotte | 3545 Whitehall Park Dr, Suite 180, Charlotte NC 28273
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Who We Are

Built on a foundation of accomplished firms unified in values, cultures, and experience, Focus Partners Wealth is a registered investment advisor with origins dating back to 1986. As an organization of wealth, asset, and business management professionals, we bring strength, innovation, and partnership to every client relationship.


Our advisors work collectively to deliver personalized wealth planning strategies across local communities, placing our clients’ values, goals, motivations, and priorities at the heart of everything we do.

  • $181B

    Total Client Assets

  • 100+

    Number of Offices

  • 30+

    States with Locations

  • 2000

    Number of Employees

*As of January, 1 2026. Services are offered through Focus Partners Wealth, LLC (“Focus Partners”), an SEC registered investment adviser with offices throughout the country. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training and does not imply that the SEC has endorsed or approved the qualifications of Focus Partners or its representatives. Prior to January 2025, Focus Partners was named The Colony Group, LLC. Focus Partners has been part of the Focus Financial Partners partnership since 2011. Nothing contained herein may be relied upon as a guarantee, promise, assurance, or representation as to the future. Please be advised that Focus Partners only shares video and content through our website or other official sources. Services and investment advice are only provided pursuant to an advisory agreement with the client. ©2025 Focus Partners Wealth, LLC. All rights reserved. RO-25-4646760

Why Choose Focus Partners Wealth

  • High-Net-Worth Strategies: We specialize in tailored, exclusive strategies for affluent individuals and families.

  • Boutique Service Backed by Institutional Strength: Enjoy the personalized attention of a boutique firm with the expertise and resources of a large institution.
  • Fiduciary Commitment: As fiduciary advisors, we put your interests first in every recommendation.

  • A Distinctive Approach to Private Wealth Management:  Our integrated approach brings together planning, investment management, and specialized expertise to help address the complex needs of private wealth clients.

What To Expect

A structured, no-cost process designed to give you clarity on your financial picture — without pressure or obligation.

  1. Brief Discovery Conversation

    We start by listening.
    You’ll speak with a member of our team for a focused conversation about your current situation, goals, and what prompted you to reach out. We’ll identify the key priorities and questions shaping your financial decisions.

  2. Meeting with an Advisor 

    A deeper review of your strategy.
    If it makes sense to continue, we’ll introduce you to a Focus advisor in your area aligned to your needs. Together, we’ll review your current approach and discuss where adjustments or improvements could strengthen your overall plan.

  3. Personalized Plan & Clear Recommendations 

    See what’s possible.
    You’ll receive a structured review outlining opportunities across investments, tax strategy, retirement planning, or broader wealth coordination — along with clear next steps so you can decide how to move forward.

 

Book Your Consultation
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Complete the form to start the conversation and gain a clearer perspective on your financial strategy. Our goal is to provide clarity and thoughtful guidance so you can determine what’s right for you.

Why Work With a Local Professional Financial Advisor?

At Focus Partners Wealth, we believe financial planning should be personal, proactive, and built to evolve with you. Our comprehensive services are tailored to your specific needs:

  • Retirement Planning

    Develop a strategy for the lifestyle you want in the years ahead

  • Investment Management and Advisory Services

    Professional portfolio design and monitoring

  • Tax-Smart Strategies

    Structuring investments to minimize taxes

  • Estate Planning Support

    Coordinating your legacy with trusted partners

  • Comprehensive Wealth Management

    A personalized approach from experienced advisors

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost for the initial conversation?

No. Your introductory conversation is complimentary and designed to help you determine whether a deeper review would be valuable. 

What happens after I submit the form?

A member of our Client Development team will reach out to schedule a brief discovery conversation to understand your goals and financial priorities. You can also book a time directly via Calendly for a time that works for you.

Am I required to become a client?

No. The initial conversations are meant to provide clarity and perspective so you can decide what makes sense for you.

What if I already have a financial advisor?

Many people come to us to gain an additional perspective. We’re happy to review your current approach and help you evaluate it with confidence.

What types of planning do you help with?

Our advisors provide coordinated guidance across investment management, tax strategy, retirement planning, legacy planning, and broader wealth considerations.

I’ve managed my finances on my own — how can an advisor add value?

Professional guidance can help uncover opportunities, improve tax efficiency, reduce risk, or provide a more structured approach to long-term planning.

Is my information secure?

Yes. We use secure systems and handle your information with strict confidentiality and care.

How long does the first conversation take?

Typically 20–25 minutes — focused, structured, and centered on what matters most to you.

How are your fees structured?

Our advisors typically work on a fee-based model, which means you pay a agreed upon advisory fee for the planning and investment services you receive. We’ll explain how fees are structured and what they cover before any deeper discussions, so you understand the value of the guidance being provided.

Why should I work with a financial advisor?

Working with an advisor can help you uncover potential opportunities, clarify complex decisions, and align your financial strategy with your goals. A thoughtful review can bring focus to areas such as investment alignment, tax efficiency, retirement readiness, and broader wealth coordination — all with the goal of helping you make more informed choices.

How long does it take to receive a personalized plan?

Most people begin with a brief introductory conversation, followed by a meeting with an advisor for a more detailed review. The timeline depends on the complexity of your situation, but most plans can be created in less than a week.

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Ready to meet with a financial advisor?

Book your financial planning strategy session for a time that works for you. 

Looking for a Financial
Advisor You Can Trust?

Whether you’re just starting your wealth journey or managing complex financial needs, our advisors seek to provide clarity and confidence. If you’ve searched for “financial advisors near me” or wondered how to find the best financial planner for your situation, we’re here to help.

 

Speak with an advisor

Recognized by

Focus Partners Wealth has been named on Financial Advisor Magazine’s America’s Top RIAs list 2025

We are pleased to announce Focus Partners Wealth has been named as the top fastest growing RIA firm in the country by FA Magazine.

Get the Details
Financial Advisor’s 2025 RIA Survey and Ranking: The annual list of 2025 Top 50 Fastest-Growing Firms, 2025 RIA Ranking, and 2025 RIA Discretionary & Non-Discretionary AUM Ranking was released on July 11, 2025, for data as of December 31, 2024. No compensation was paid for consideration of this award. The award criteria and methodology are available to view at this link.

20 Focus Partners Wealth Advisors Named on Forbes 2025 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors List

We are excited to announce the following Focus Partners Wealth associates were recognized on the 2025 rankings.

Get the Details
20 Advisors on Forbes 2025 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors and 1 Advisor on Forbes 2025 America’s Top Wealth Advisors. Awards were received on April 8, 2025 for data as of June 30, 2024. No compensation was paid for consideration of this award. The award criteria and methodology are available to view at this link.
Financial Advisor’s 2025 RIA Survey and Ranking: The annual list of 2025 Top 50 Fastest-Growing Firms, 2025 RIA Ranking, and 2025 RIA Discretionary & Non-Discretionary AUM Ranking was released on July 11, 2025, for data as of December 31, 2024. No compensation was paid for consideration of this award. The award criteria and methodology are available to view at this link.
20 Advisors on Forbes 2025 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors and 1 Advisor on Forbes 2025 America’s Top Wealth Advisors. Awards were received on April 8, 2025 for data as of June 30, 2024. No compensation was paid for consideration of this award. The award criteria and methodology are available to view at this link.

Meet Your Team

team-1

Don Rochleau, CFP®

Director, Client Development
don.rochleau@focuspartners.com
As the Director of Client Development, Don helps ensure clients and prospective clients have an outstanding experience as they begin their relationship with Focus. His collaborative working relationship with Focus's diverse, experienced wealth advisory teams enables him to help prospective clients find the ideal fit based on their unique goals and circumstances.

Don entered the wealth management field because he was initially motivated to find a way to simplify overly complicated programs, investments and offerings to help ensure each client’s plan is in line with their intentions. He enjoys the satisfaction that comes from working with individuals and families to address some of their greatest concerns and have a positive impact in their lives.

The most rewarding part of Don’s day at Focus Partners is getting to know prospective clients. With each client comes unique circumstances, and Don finds it exciting to delve into the details and work collaboratively with advisors to develop creative solutions that can help clients realize their goals. He enjoys working with people who share the same vision of doing what’s best for clients.

Previously, Don worked as a vice president and wealth management advisor for the Private Client Reserve of U.S. Bank, as well as vice president of operations for NA Buffen Co. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Lindenwood University. Don also holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional designation.

Outside of work, Don spends time with his three children. When his weekends aren’t filled with his kids’ sports and education events, Don enjoys cycling and playing golf.
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team-2

Stavros Rizakos

Associate Vice President, Client Development
stavros.rizakos@focuspartners.com
 As Associate Vice President of Client Development, Stavros serves as the first point of contact for prospective clients at Focus Partners. He works with prospects to understand their financial goals and unique circumstances, then leverages Focus's national network of over 100 offices to implement a tailored wealth management strategy.

At the heart of Stavros's work is connecting people with the right people. He believes the best advisor-client relationships are built on shared values, mutual respect, and genuine connection. Stavros takes pride in facilitating meaningful partnerships that lead to lasting relationships and helping clients understand how comprehensive wealth management can address their challenges, from tax mitigation to business exit planning and multi-generational wealth transfer.

Stavros began his career at Maller Wealth Advisors before joining Morgan Stanley as a trading associate. He then transitioned to a wealth advisor role at Focus Partners, where his passion for client relationships led to his current position. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Loyola University Maryland.

Stavros lives in Baltimore, Maryland, with his wife, Beth, and their daughter, Rosedrey "Rosie". He is an avid fan of the Baltimore Ravens and enjoys traveling and playing squash in his spare time. 
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team-3

Trisha Fitzer

Associate Vice President, Client Development
trisha.fitzer@focuspartners.com
As Associate Vice President of Client Development at Focus Partners Wealth, Trisha serves as the first point of contact for prospective clients exploring the firm’s wealth management services. She works closely with individuals and families to understand their financial goals, priorities, and concerns, then leverages Focus Partners’ national network of more than 100 offices to help implement a customized wealth management strategy tailored to each client’s needs.

Trisha’s passion for building meaningful client relationships is what led her into this role. She is known for her detail-oriented approach and strong problem-solving skills, ensuring each prospective client feels heard, supported, and confidently guided from their very first interaction with Focus Partners.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Missouri–Columbia and currently lives in St. Louis, Missouri, with her husband, Scott, and their two children, Scarlett and Harrison.
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Christopher-Shaffer-Headshot

Christopher Shaffer

Associate Vice President, Client Development
chris.shaffer@focuspartners.com
 As Associate Vice President of Client Development at Focus Partners Wealth, Christopher M. Shaffer plays a vital role in ensuring clients and prospective clients have an exceptional experience as they begin their relationship with Focus. His collaborative working relationship with Focus's diverse, experienced wealth advisory teams enables him to help prospective clients find the ideal fit based on their unique goals and circumstances.

Christopher entered the wealth management field because of his passion for financial markets and his commitment to helping clients make informed investment decisions. Throughout his career in equity trading and business development at some of the world's largest investment banks and asset managers, he developed a deep understanding of what sophisticated investors truly need from their wealth management partners.

The most rewarding part of Christopher's work at Focus Partners is getting to know prospective clients and understanding their unique circumstances. He finds it exciting to delve into the details and work collaboratively with advisors to develop creative solutions that can help clients realize their goals. He values working with people who share the same vision of doing what's best for clients.

Christopher earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science, with a focus on Economics, History, and Political Science, from the University of Pittsburgh.

Outside of work, Christopher spends time with his wife and Dachshund and is an avid golfer. 
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Connor-Kiffer-Headshot

Connor Kiffer

Client Development Specialist
connor.kiffer@focuspartners.com
 As a Client Development Specialist at Focus Partners Wealth, Connor serves as a primary point of contact for prospective clients. He works closely with individuals and families to understand their goals, priorities, and expectations from a wealth management relationship, and facilitates a seamless introduction to a Wealth Advisor to ensure a strong advisory fit.

Connor entered the wealth management industry driven by both his passion for the financial markets and his belief in the meaningful impact a trusted advisory relationship can have on long-term financial success. Throughout his career in equity and derivative trading, as well as advisory business development, he has developed a strong commitment to helping clients pursue and achieve their financial goals.

Connor began his career at Charles Schwab, where he worked in equity and derivative trading with retail investors. He later transitioned into a business development role at Fisher Investments, one of the largest advisory firms in the United States. During this time, he further cultivated his passion for wealth management and the value comprehensive financial planning brings to long-term financial strategies.

He earned his bachelor’s degrees in Marketing and Business Management from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. While attending SIUE, Connor was a three-year starter on the university’s baseball team, primarily playing second and third base.

Outside of work, Connor enjoys spending time with his wife and their two dogs, Bentley, a Bernese Mountain Dog, and Teddy, a Golden Dachshund. 
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Disclosures:
This reflects the opinions of Focus Partners, may contain forward-looking statements, and presents information that may change. Nothing contained herein may be relied upon as a guarantee, promise, assurance, or representation as to the future. Investing involves risk, including, but not limited to, loss of principal. Services described may not be suitable for all clients.

Services are offered through Focus Partners Wealth, LLC (“Focus Partners”), an SEC registered investment adviser with offices throughout the country. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training and does not imply that the SEC has endorsed or approved the qualifications of Focus Partners or its representatives. Prior to January 2025, Focus Partners was named The Colony Group, LLC. Focus Partners has been part of the Focus Financial Partners partnership since 2011.

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. 

If you are a California resident, California law provides you with additional rights. To learn more about your California privacy rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”), please see our CCPA Privacy Notice.

©2025 Focus Partners Wealth. All rights reserved.