Michael J. Goldstein, CFP® ChFC®, AAMS®, CDFA®

Experience

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  Merrill Lynch

  Aug 2000 - Apr 2001

  Sales & Marketing Internship

  My first experience in the financial services industry was as an intern at Merrill Lynch, where I gained a comprehensive introduction to wealth management and client engagement. This role provided invaluable hands-on experience and helped shape my career trajectory in financial planning and investment management.Key responsibilities included conducting extensive cold calling to prospective clients, which honed my communication and sales skills. I engaged with individuals to introduce Merrill Lynch’s financial services and products, building confidence in my ability to connect with potential clients and convey value effectively.I was also deeply involved in marketing initiatives, particularly promoting tax-free Florida bonds. By assisting in developing and implementing marketing strategies, I gained insight into attracting and retaining clients while fostering an understanding of investment opportunities.During my internship, I shadowed experienced financial advisors, observing best practices in client relationship management and financial planning. This hands-on exposure provided me with a solid foundation in investment principles and personal finance strategies. Additionally, I supported the team with administrative tasks, such as organizing client meetings, preparing financial reports, and maintaining data accuracy, which enhanced my organizational and team collaboration skills.This experience allowed me to build a strong skill set, including communication, marketing, and financial analysis, while contributing to successful marketing campaigns and expanding my understanding of client relationship management. My time at Merrill Lynch was instrumental in igniting my passion for the financial services industry and prepared me for the impactful career that followed. Show less

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  Morgan Stanley

  May 2001 - May 2007

  During my time as a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley, I had the privilege of working with individuals and families to develop tailored financial strategies designed to help them achieve their goals. As part of a highly skilled team, I gained invaluable experience in investment management, portfolio construction, and long-term financial planning.My role involved building deep relationships with clients, understanding their unique financial situations, and crafting comprehensive plans that aligned with their aspirations. Whether it was navigating market challenges, planning for retirement, or growing and preserving wealth, I was dedicated to providing personalized advice and unwavering support.This experience not only honed my technical skills in finance but also reinforced the importance of trust, empathy, and clear communication in building lasting client relationships. It was here that I developed a passion for helping people turn their financial aspirations into reality—a passion that continues to guide me in my career to this day.My time at Morgan Stanley was a formative chapter in my professional journey, providing the foundation for my success as a financial planner and wealth manager today. Show less My first role out of college was as an Investment Associate at Salomon Smith Barney, where I learned the foundational skills of the financial services industry. In this role, I was responsible for connecting with individuals working for large corporations across the Chicagoland area. Through strategic cold calling and personalized outreach, I identified prospects and introduced them to the financial planning and investment solutions we offered.This position required resilience, effective communication, and a results-driven mindset. On average, I successfully set three meetings per day, which consistently translated into gathering approximately $1 million in new assets under management each week. These achievements not only contributed to the growth of our business but also demonstrated my ability to build trust with clients and align their financial goals with tailored strategies.My time at Salomon Smith Barney provided me with a deep appreciation for the value of persistence, relationship-building, and client-centric service. It was a pivotal starting point in my career, laying the groundwork for my future success as a financial planner and wealth manager. Show less

  • Financial Advisor

    Dec 2003 - May 2007

  • Investment Associate (Salomon Smith Barney)

    May 2001 - Nov 2003
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  Charles Schwab and Co

  May 2007 - Sept 2010

  Vice President/Financial Consultant

  As a Financial Consultant at Charles Schwab, I was dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals through personalized financial planning and expert investment advice. This role allowed me to develop and refine the skills that ultimately led to my current position at Savant Wealth Management.I focused on building strong relationships with a diverse portfolio of clients, conducting financial consultations to understand their unique situations, goals, and risk tolerance. Using advanced planning tools, I developed tailored financial plans encompassing retirement, education funding, tax strategies, and estate planning. I ensured these plans were regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to clients’ evolving needs.In investment management, I provided portfolio analyses and recommended asset allocation strategies. Advising on products such as mutual funds, ETFs, stocks, and bonds, I kept clients informed with timely, market-based advice.I pursued business development through networking, referrals, and financial seminars, consistently exceeding sales targets. By delivering exceptional client service and collaborating with internal partners, I maintained high client satisfaction and retention rates.My achievements included significant growth in assets under management, recognition for sales performance, and mentoring junior team members. My time at Charles Schwab laid the groundwork for my career, equipping me with the expertise I now bring to Savant Wealth Management. My experience at Charles Schwab was instrumental in shaping my career in financial planning and investment management. The skills and knowledge I gained there served as a strong foundation for my eventual transition to Savant, where I continue to apply my expertise to help clients achieve their financial goals. Show less

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  Chase

  Sept 2010 - Apr 2011

  Vice President -- Financial Advisor

  As a Financial Consultant at Chase, I provided comprehensive financial planning and investment advice to clients, focusing on building strong relationships and delivering tailored solutions to help them achieve their financial goals. My role emphasized understanding clients' objectives and risk tolerance, offering disciplined strategies in asset allocation and risk management.Key highlights of my time at Chase included managing diverse client portfolios, providing informed advice on a range of financial products, and closely monitoring market trends to deliver timely insights. I worked collaboratively with a team of bankers to generate investment leads, successfully converting them into new business opportunities that contributed to the growth of the firm’s assets under management (AUM).In addition, I was dedicated to delivering exceptional client service, achieving high satisfaction and retention rates through personalized support and effective financial planning. My ability to collaborate effectively with team members and execute business development strategies resulted in increased revenue and client base expansion.Although my time at Chase was brief, it provided valuable experience in financial planning and client relationship management. Ultimately, the role was not the right long-term fit for my career aspirations, but it reinforced my passion for delivering client-centric financial solutions and guided me toward opportunities better aligned with my expertise. Show less

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  Addison Clark Wealth Management, LLC

  Apr 2011 - Oct 2022

  Managing Director, Portfolio Manager, & Financial Planner

  As the founder and CEO of Addison Clark Wealth Management, LLC, I built a financial planning and wealth management firm focused on helping clients achieve their financial goals. Over 11 years, I grew the firm into a trusted partner for individuals, families, and business owners, providing tailored financial solutions to meet their unique needs.My role involved setting the firm’s strategic vision and delivering personalized services, including investment management, retirement planning, tax strategies, and estate planning. I worked closely with clients to understand their goals and financial circumstances, crafting customized strategies to ensure long-term success.I provided disciplined investment management, offering portfolio monitoring and timely advice on equities, fixed income, ETFs, mutual funds, and alternative investments. Staying attuned to market trends, I ensured clients’ investments aligned with their objectives.Building trust-based client relationships was central to my work. By prioritizing transparent communication and a client-first approach, I fostered high satisfaction and retention rates, which drove the firm’s success.I also led business development efforts, expanding the client base through referrals, networking, and educational initiatives. These efforts significantly grew the firm’s assets under management and strengthened its reputation in the industry.Leading Addison Clark Wealth Management allowed me to combine financial expertise with entrepreneurial leadership, helping clients secure their financial futures. It remains a proud cornerstone of my career journey. Show less

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  Enterprise

  Apr 2011 - Nov 2013

  Management Assistant

  During my time at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, I honed a diverse set of skills while contributing to branch success across customer service, operations, sales, and team collaboration. My role involved directly engaging with customers, providing exceptional service by assisting with reservations, returns, and addressing concerns, which consistently earned positive feedback and high satisfaction scores.I supported administrative functions by managing office tasks, maintaining branch records, and ensuring operational efficiency. In operations, I conducted vehicle check-ins and inspections, coordinated servicing and repairs, and upheld company standards.In sales and marketing, I promoted additional services and products to customers while contributing to local marketing efforts and community outreach, driving customer acquisition and enhancing brand visibility. I also played a key role in training new employees and collaborating with team members to improve processes and ensure seamless branch operations.These experiences strengthened my interpersonal and communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and organizational expertise. My contributions were recognized through exceptional service performance, successful marketing initiatives, and operational improvements that enhanced branch efficiency and productivity. Show less

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  American Hotel Register Company

  Nov 2013 - Jun 2018

  Account Manager - Management Groups

  At American Hotel Register, I thrived in a dynamic role that involved managing and cultivating relationships with over 700 YMCA, Bozzuto, and Young Life facilities and their associations. I delivered tailored solutions by offering a wide range of products and services designed to meet their unique needs.Adept at leveraging CRM systems, I implemented effective customer contact strategies and managed opportunities to maximize client engagement and satisfaction. Through strategic consultations, I provided expert guidance on products and pricing, crafting propositions that drove customer loyalty and business growth.I developed customized sales literature to introduce new products, gaining market share among YMCA buyers. Additionally, I organized and attended YMCA tradeshows, fostering new relationships that expanded my client network.My commitment to excellence was consistently reflected in my performance, as I exceeded sales goals every year during my tenure and was honored as a “Rookie of the Year” nominee in 2014. By building strong relationships, resolving challenges, and offering comprehensive solutions, I became a trusted partner to my clients and a key contributor to the company’s success. Show less

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  Grainger

  Jun 2018 - Jul 2019

  Government Account Relationship Manager

  During my tenure at Grainger, I played a pivotal role in driving sales success and fostering strong relationships within the government sector. I managed and developed partnerships with over 100 government accounts, delivering tailored solutions to meet their Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) needs.Leveraging innovative marketing strategies, I designed and presented customized plans to address the unique operational and purchasing requirements of each account. By negotiating mutually beneficial pricing agreements on large-scale purchases, I ensured long-term value for both the company and the clients.Through dedication and a strategic approach, I exceeded expectations, achieving 115% of my sales goal within my first year. This accomplishment reflected my commitment to delivering exceptional service and results in a highly competitive environment. Show less

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  Stericycle

  Jul 2019 - Oct 2022

  During my time as an Account Care Specialist at Stericycle, I was committed to maintaining strong client relationships and ensuring customer satisfaction while driving revenue growth. My role focused on re-negotiating contracts to retain business, addressing client needs, and leveraging higher-level service programs to deliver mutually beneficial solutions.I took a strategic and value-driven approach to client interactions, uncovering service issues and explaining contract terms to provide tailored alternatives that aligned with their needs. Whether through adjusting pricing, modifying service schedules, or presenting customized solutions, I consistently highlighted the value of Stericycle’s offerings to retain clients and even up-sell services.In addition to managing a portfolio of clients, I proactively engaged with “at-risk” customers, using proven sales tactics to recover potential lost business. I worked closely with cross-functional teams—including transportation, billing, collections, and customer experience departments—to ensure a seamless resolution to client concerns.My role required effective use of technology, including CRM tools, to track client interactions, manage pipelines, and forecast outcomes. This allowed me to maintain accurate records and strategically address opportunities for retention and growth.Throughout my tenure, I consistently met or exceeded revenue retention goals, demonstrating my ability to navigate complex client relationships and balance their needs with company objectives. My experience at Stericycle strengthened my skills in contract negotiation, value-based selling, and customer relationship management—foundational elements of my career in client-focused roles. Show less As an Account Manager at Stericycle, I specialized in driving business growth, rebuilding client relationships, and expanding market presence through phone-based sales efforts. I engaged with healthcare facilities to highlight our expertise in regulated medical waste, OSHA, and HIPAA compliance solutions, maintaining a robust sales pipeline through consistent outreach.Using effective communication and negotiation skills, I won back former clients by addressing their specific needs and demonstrating the value of Stericycle’s offerings. I tailored solutions to meet client requirements, helping retain business and identify opportunities to up-sell additional services.Relationship building was a key aspect of my role. Through proactive and strategic phone interactions, I identified customer needs, resolved concerns, and provided customized solutions to drive client satisfaction and loyalty. I also contributed to market development by targeting underdeveloped areas and leveraging marketing campaigns to expand Stericycle’s reach.Consistently exceeding sales targets, I refined my skills in phone-based business development and client management, establishing a strong foundation for continued success in customer-focused roles. Show less

  • Account Care Specialist / Retention

    Jun 2020 - Oct 2022

  • Account Manager

    Jul 2019 - Jun 2020
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  Savant Wealth Management

  Oct 2022 - now

  Financial Advisor

  At Savant Wealth Management, I help clients navigate their financial journeys with confidence. As a Financial Planner and Portfolio Manager, I specialize in creating personalized financial strategies tailored to each client’s unique goals and circumstances. With 24 years of experience in the wealth management industry, I’m committed to providing thoughtful advice and practical solutions that enhance my clients’ financial well-being.My role involves comprehensive financial planning, investment portfolio design, and active management. I work closely with individuals, families, and businesses to assess their financial needs, develop actionable plans, and implement strategies to build and preserve wealth. Whether it’s preparing for retirement, managing complex financial situations like divorce, or optimizing investment allocations, I strive to be a trusted partner in helping my clients achieve long-term financial success.I take a meticulous approach to financial planning, leveraging my advanced credentials—including the ChFC®, AAMS®, CDFA®, and CFP® designations—in every aspect of my work. Building strong, lasting relationships is a cornerstone of my practice, and I’m dedicated to delivering a high level of care and personalized service to ensure my clients feel supported at every step of their journey.Based at Savant's Lincolnshire office, I’m proud to contribute to our firm’s mission of empowering clients to achieve their ideal futures. Show less