Brighton - Headquarters

Michael J. Lay, CFP®

Managing Director

Chief Compliance Officer

Michael has been a member of Executive Wealth Management since 2006 and earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER professional designation in 2011. His breadth of industry experience covers several roles within Executive Wealth Management, including managing his own advisory relationships.  

In April of 2015, Michael transitioned from Private Wealth Advisor to Chief Operating Officer, overseeing corporate strategy and business development, human capital, and day-to-day operational activities. His experience as a Private Wealth Advisor gives him the unique ability to help position the company for growth, while always putting client interests first and thoroughly understanding every step of the client experience. Michael has a passion that aligns with the firm’s core values of trust, community, and compassion.

In addition to his duties with EWM, he is active in the community and serves as a voluntary board member for Work Skills Foundation and for the Community Foundation of Livingston County. He also serves with his wife, Keri as the co-directors of Engage Community Organization (ECO), a faith-based ministry organization designed to build up business and community efforts in his hometown of Fenton. 

Michael is also a father of two wonderful children and he and his wife have opened their home to several youths and young adults from both local and international organizations. He enjoys being active, working out, engaging in sports of all kinds, and cheering on his alma mater, the University of Michigan.

• “Meal-making effort warms hearts of Brighton couple with Ukraine ties” article quote by Mike Lay in the Livingston Daily
• “Saving and Enhancing Lives In the Community” PurposeCity podcast episode co-host Mike Lay

Albert P. Herzog III, CFP^®, MBA, ChFC^®

Founder and Director 

Senior Private Wealth Advisor 

Since 1981, Bert has been pioneering and developing multidisciplinary wealth management approaches and platforms, including the Protactical™ Investment Process both as an entrepreneur and innovative leader. Bert is the founder of Executive Financial Planning, Executive Wealth Management, Fortunatus Investments, and EWM's 401K GPS. 

He has been married for over thirty years to his wife Judy and blessed with three children and two grandkids. He plays an active role in his Michigan and Florida communities; volunteering and supporting many charities including The Brighton Rotary, LACASA, WorkSkills, The American Cancer Society, Gleaners Food Bank, and Thomas M. Herzog Educational Foundation CC Scholarship Fund.

• EWM’s Bert Herzog Discussing the Fed Increasing Inflation Rates on WJR 760 AM
• EWM’s Bert Herzog Discussing the Market on WJR 760 AM 
• All Talk with Tom Jordan and Kevin Dietz with Bert Herzog
• “Hidden Lake Resident Helps Provide Opportunities for Compassionate Growth”  article featuring Bert Herzog

Adam R. Kulesza CFP®, MBA, ChFC^®, CLU^®

Director

Senior Private Wealth Advisor

Adam Kulesza has been a partner of Executive Wealth Management since 2009 and is co-founder of both EWM Investment Solutions and EWM's 401k GPS. 

Adam is a consummate professional; his experience, combined with researching the ever-changing financial markets, delivers a disciplined approach to wealth management. With his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM professional designation, Adam understands the diverse financial planning needs of high-net-worth individuals and families.

As a devoted husband and foster parent, Adam enjoys spending time as a volunteer coach for his kid’s athletic teams and attending or transporting them to their extracurricular events. Adoption and fostering are one of Adam’s greatest personal accomplishments. He also plays an active role within his community, supporting many charities including, The Red Cross, The American Cancer Society, Gleaners Food Bank, The Connection, and LACASA.

Michael R. Chechel, Jr.

Director 

Senior Private Wealth Advisor 

Michael R. Chechel, Jr. brings a Wall Street background to Main Street America helping individuals, families and businesses devise and implement investment plans to help secure their financial future. After his tenure on Wall Street, Mr. Chechel moved to Michigan and began serving on Fifth Third Securities investment team. While at Fifth Third Securities he quickly rose to become the top revenue producing wealth advisor and was crowned with the prestigious Fifth Third Top Investment Consultant Award in 2006. In 2007, he joined the Executive Wealth Management team and soon became partner in the firm. Residing in Milford with his wife and three children, Mike enjoys coaching youth sports programs, staying active and spending time with his family and friends. As an active leader in his community his preferred charities are Gleaners Food Bank, The Red Cross and Make a Wish Foundation.

Albert Herzog IV, CFP®, CRPC®, CLU®

Director

Senior Private Wealth Advisor

Albert Herzog IV has been a Private Wealth Advisor at Executive Wealth Management since early 2018.

Albert strives to keep every client’s goals in mind when helping build, manage, preserve and transition their wealth. With his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional designation, he provides targeted, comprehensive financial advice and wealth management strategies. His objective is to exceed client service expectations, and his responsibility is to put their best interests first. Albert came to EWM with expertise from two of the largest financial services firms in the industry, Merrill Lynch & Wells Fargo Advisors.

He prides himself on the discipline and leadership learned as a football captain and student-athlete at Hillsdale College and Detroit Catholic Central High School. He lives in Plymouth, Michigan, with his wife and is involved in their community through Gleaner’s Food Bank, the American Cancer Society, the American Red Cross, and the Salvation Army. Albert welcomes the opportunity to meet with you.

• “Year-End Financial Checklist” presented by Albert Herzog IV
• “Could Custodial IRA’s Help Young Adults Buy Homes?” presented by Albert Herzog IV
• “Planning for College” presented by Albert Herzog IV

James A. Plaskey, Jr., CFP®

Director

Senior Private Wealth Advisor

Jimmie Plaskey is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional who has been helping clients at Executive Wealth Management since 2011. One of his greatest passions is to educate his clients, inspiring them to make informed decisions and creating financial paths they may not have realized possible. These ways include reducing debt, having proper insurance coverage, and helping their wealth-building goals become a reality leading up to and while enjoying retirement.

Jimmie’s education style of financial planning stems from his collegiate days. He had coaches who created a clear vision and brought out the best in him and their teams. He brings these valuable coaching lessons to each of his clients in financial planning to guide, teach, and assist in accomplishing their goals. 

Jimmie's other great passion in life involves taking action to help make the world a better place. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter and the Brighton Chamber of Commerce. He's a co-founder of the Team Suzy Non-Profit and regularly supports Brother Rice High School and Hillsdale College as an alumnus. On April 4th, 2020, Jimmie married his best friend, Sydney. They reside in South Lyon, MI, with their Cavapoo puppy, Chief. Jimmie enjoys playing and talking all sports, being outdoors, fishing, hunting, hiking, and leisure with family and friends.

Educational Speaking Engagements:

• Brighton Chamber of Commerce
• St. John’s Hospital Residents
• Kent State Podiatry School
• Cleary University
• Brother Rice High School
• Detroit Catholic Central High School

Todd Perry CFP ®, CIMA®, CPWA®, RMA®

Senior Private Wealth Advisor
Schedule an appointment

Todd, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional, joined Executive Wealth  Management in 2019. Prior to joining EWM, he worked as a Senior Financial Planner for an independent wealth management firm gaining extensive experience in financial planning and portfolio management. Todd’s background also includes tax planning and preparation after having prepared returns for over ten years. He believes the integration between taxes and investments, and the proactive planning work involved, are a vital part of the wealth management process and has been previously quoted in the Wall Street Journal discussing the subject in an article titled, "Advisors Focus on 2013 Tax Plans.

Todd is a graduate of Central Michigan University and started in the financial services industry in 2005. In addition to the CFP certification, he has also earned the Certified Investment Management Analyst and Certified Private Wealth Advisor designations. He currently resides in Brighton with his wife, Kristen. When not spending time with their three children, Todd enjoys hockey, golf and being involved in the Brighton community.

• “The Fixed Costs of Variable Annuities” article by Todd Perry
• “Are You on Track?” article by Todd Perry
• “Tax Planning in the Retirement ‘Gap’ Years” article presented by Todd Perry
• “Uncover New 401(k) Opportunities” article presented by Todd Perry

Duane Johnson ChFC^®, CLU^®

Private Wealth Advisor

Duane brings more than 20 years of wealth management experience to Executive Wealth Management. He has served in credit unions, broker-dealers, and banking institutions with individuals and institutions. 

Duane believes that his success lies in creating meaningful relationships; discovering clients' goals and hopes, creating a plan together, and taking action to reach those goals. This is part of the EWM foundation of Build Defend Advance.

Duane enjoys working on his property and creating an environment to support and attract our local plant and animal life.  He is the youngest of twelve children and a native of Southeastern Michigan. He lives in Howell with his wife of 23 years and 3 children.

Duane is delighted to be working locally, to focus more time on doing the things he already supports in our community; Gleaners, Special Olympics, and Brighton Bands!

Kevin Cross, CFP®

Private Wealth Advisor

A graduate of Purdue University with a bachelor's degree in Financial Counseling and Planning, Kevin brings over 15 years of industry experience to EWM. The different roles he has served throughout his career have given him valuable exposure to many different sides of the financial services industry including banking, discount brokerage, and wealth management. Kevin can rely on this experience to deliver service to clients and help them with their financial goals, concerns, and questions. Kevin believes that the client always comes first, and it is his responsibility to be the trusted professional clients can come to with any of their financial questions. Kevin is a resident of Chelsea, MI with his wife and two young daughters. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his extended family throughout the state of Michigan, golfing, and cheering for Purdue and Detroit athletic teams. Kevin is actively involved in the community supporting the American Cancer Society as well as various Chelsea High School athletic programs.

Jennifer Ralston, ChFC®

Private Wealth Advisor & Processing Manager

Jennifer joined Executive Wealth Management in 2015 as a Client Associate and is teamed with Adam Kulesza. She specializes in client service and account maintenance requests.  She joined EWM with 18 years of industry experience, previously working with Victory Capital Management (formerly Munder Capital Management) out of Birmingham, Michigan. Jennifer resides in White Lake, Michigan with her husband and two daughters and in her free time, enjoys gardening.

Andrew Zehnder

Private Wealth Advisor

Andrew Zehnder is a lifelong resident of Frankenmuth, Michigan, and a graduate of Northwood University.  With over 25 years of experience, Andrew prides himself on the relationship he builds with his clients. In his spare time, Andrew is an avid outdoorsman and cultivator of great memories on the family farm in Cedar, MI. Together with his wife, Sarah, they have two sons and a rambunctious daughter.

Susan Busch

Private Wealth Advisor

Susan graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder. As an active mother, she enjoys ski racing with her family. Her husband is a ski coach at Mount Brighton in addition to his day job. With over 24 years in the investment and banking industry, Susan is committed to assisting individuals, families, and organizations by providing personalized financial planning for those in pursuit of their financial goals.

Andrew Szewc

private wealth advisor

Andrew Szewc has been a member of Executive Wealth Management since the beginning of 2023.

Andrew strives to provide the highest levels of service and looks forward to building long-term relationships with his clients. He brings to the EWM team a variety of knowledge and experience from a fast-paced, independent firm within the Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network. Andrew will shortly begin studying for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification examination. 

Andrew is a proud graduate of Hillsdale College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Financial Management and International Business. When he is not working, he can be found somewhere in the rough on the golf course, taking care of his fitness and boating with family and friends. Andrew is actively involved with his alma mater and community, supporting many charitable organizations, including the Children’s Foundation, JDRF, and the Capuchin Soup Kitchen.

Cody Wickham

Chief Information Security Officer

Cody has been with Executive Wealth Management since 2011 serving various roles for EWM and EWM’s 401K GPS. Transitioning into the Chief Information Security Officer role in 2016, Cody works closely with the compliance department to oversee Client Privacy, information security, critical firm assets and technology. In addition, he also leads our marketing and advertising efforts to ensure a consistent message across all media.

Cody holds a BA in Marketing from Michigan State University and resides in Brighton, Michigan. An advocate for animal adoption, Cody shares his home with two amazing mutts who keep him active and on his toes.

Ken McMullen, APR

Chief marketing officer

Ken has over 30 years of experience in professional communications, brand marketing, media, and business development. He has expertise in the quick assessment of both internal and external trends and produces effective marketing initiatives that have made him a highly sought-after branding expert.

Before his current role as Chief Marketing Officer for Executive Wealth Management, Ken served as the Business Development and Chief Communications Officer to the regional board for a Fortune 500 company, the Chief Development Officer for a leading science foundation developed by Dr. Francis Collins, the Communications Manager for a large public school district, an adjunct professor at William Tyndale College, and a television and radio personality and producer.

Ken earned a Master of Arts in Corporate Communications from Eastern Michigan University, a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Science in Film and Media from Eastern Michigan University. He also is professionally accredited in public relations (APR) by the Public Relations Society of America.

Ken is an avid reader and lifelong learner in his downtime and enjoys podcasting. He resides with his wife Michelle, son Max, stepson Carson, and Hattie, a dog who follows his every move.

Jeffrey Boland, MBA

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

Jeffrey joined the Executive Wealth Management team early in 2012 while completing his Masters of Business Administration with a focus in Accounting from Cleary University.  While learning the “tricks of the trade” from Gregory J. Barber, Jeffrey has gained a niche for financial planning and tax planning. 

While residing in Howell with his wife Kassie, he is often spotted on Lake Chemung boating and doing other water activities when the Michigan weather is right.

Michelle Sullivan

Human Resources Manager

Michelle joined Executive Wealth Management in early 2020 as an executive administrative assistant to our chief operating officer and chief compliance officer. Prior to joining EWM, Michelle worked as the policy coordinator and virtual assistant to the superintendent at Licking Heights Local Schools, as well as working as the accounting and HR specialist for Huntington Learning in Lewis Center, OH.  

Michelle received her associate’s degree in accounting from Edison State Community College and her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Heidelberg College. She also earned a middle school teaching certificate from Murray State University, and most recently, a Master’s degree in sports management from American Public University. 

When not in the office, Michelle enjoys spending time with her husband and four children, who are all active in youth sports.  She also supports her community by sitting on the Board of Directors for the Williamston Stings Baseball and Softball Organization and by supporting local charities, including the Williamston Schools Foundation, Weekend Survival Kits, and Torch 180.

Kelly Anderson

NEW ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Kelly brings 12 years of financial experience as Execute Wealth Management's New Accounts Manager. She holds an associate degree in business administration-Accounting Magna Cum Laude from Oakland Community College. She brings a pleasant demeanor daily to the firm and excels in customer service.

Vanessa Sredzinski, ChFC®

Retirement plan operations Manager

Vanessa currently resides in Howell. She graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s in finance. Vanessa joined Executive Wealth Management in 2017 as an intern and is now a Retirement Plan Operations Manager. Vanessa holds her Chartered Financial Consultant® designation and Series 65 Investment Advisor Representative license. In her free time she likes to bake, golf, and go to the lake.

Angelina Rider

Compliance Analyst

Angelina attended Linden Schools in Fenton, where she grew up and still lives today. She obtained her Bachelor’s from the University of Michigan in criminal justice and sociology with an Associates in psychology. She brings a wealth of experiences to EWM including being a public safety officer and working in the dental industry. In her spare time, she loves to be outside, including spending time at the park with her two dogs, Zayda and Luna, and her husband, Matt. She is energetic and a people-person who enjoys communicating and helping push others towards their potential!

Vanessa Thomas

senior servicing advisor

Vanessa graduated from Lake Superior State with a double major in Political Science and Criminal Justice. She worked at Comerica Bank for 10 years and continued her career in the finance world at a firm in Brighton. She started working at Executive Wealth Management in October of 2019.

In 2010, she received her Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification. Vanessa now lives in Novi with her husband and three active kids.

Christine Schilling

Senior Servicing Advisor

Christine is the newest addition to Executive Wealth Management, bringing 25 years of industry experience with a passion for helping clients and building relationships.

Christine has expertise in genuinely learning about her clients – she emphasizes the importance of caring, building trust, and helping them find the confidence they need to enjoy what is most important to them. As a previous Financial Advisor and branch manager for credit unions, Christine finds joy in giving financial clarity to anyone in any aspect of life.

As a full-time working mother of three and wife, Christine has done her due diligence in balancing her career and family while making sure to prioritize both. She loves being involved in her kid’s different activities and sports, as well as golfing and dining with her husband. Christine loves animals and actively volunteers her time at the Huron Valley Humane Society. She is also a consultant for various non-profits that help survivors of human trafficking; she teaches them budgeting and money fundamentals.

Matthew Stojkov, CFP^®, EA

Senior Servicing Advisor

Matthew Stojkov joined the team at Executive Wealth Management in 2023 as a Financial Servicing Advisor. 

Matthew is a dedicated professional, constantly pursuing new information in the ever-changing finance industry to help give clients the best opportunities. He brings six years of industry experience, holding his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional designation and Enrolled Agent certification. Matthew enjoys working with clients to build and maintain a holistic financial plan to help ensure a healthy financial future.

Matthew’s knack for learning new information comes from his background teaching the CFP® Income Tax Planning Curriculum at Oakland University. In his free time, he and his wife enjoy spending time with their son, two golden retrievers and renovating their home. He also plays an active role in his community, volunteering for both the winter and summer games for Special Olympics. 

Scott Fishel, AAMS®, CRPC®, MBA

Servicing advisor

Scott Fishel joined the Executive Wealth Management team in 2022. 

Scott exhibits patience and understanding as he works with clients’ diverse questions, concerns and needs. His friendly personality and unique background help him to communicate efficiently, providing space for clients to express their thoughts and opinions. Scott came to EWM after spending 16 years teaching English in Japan, which gave him experience communicating with individuals of all ages and viewpoints. Scott holds his Accredited Asset Management Specialist® and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor® designations. 

While in Japan, Scott completed his MBA at Nagoya University of Commerce and Business (NCUB). He previously received a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Japanese from Eastern Michigan University. Scott enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters in his free time. 

Cathy Behnke

Licensed Client Associate

Cathy Behnke joined Executive Wealth Management in 2022 as a Client Associate.  

Cathy is a seasoned professional with most of her experience in life insurance, 401ks, and pensions. She has spent time in many other roles, including human resources and employee benefits. Cathy has a profound portfolio of educational endeavors, including a bachelor’s degree in political science, a master’s degree in Russian studies, and a Master of Business Administration in Finance, all from the University of Michigan.  

She enjoys spending time with her two children and grandchildren in her farmhouse that she is beginning to renovate. In her free time, she writes a creative blog about anthropomorphic animals. 

Alissa Earl

Client Associate

Alissa joined Executive Wealth Management in 2020 and is teamed with Jimmie Plaskey and Todd Perry. She specializes in client service and account maintenance requests. She has over 12 years of industry experience, previously working with Jackson National Life in Okemos, Michigan. Alissa resides in Brighton, Michigan with her husband and two children. In her free time she enjoys being active in CrossFit, hiking, and spending time with her family. 

Catherine Parkey

client associate

Cathy Parkey has been with Executive Wealth Management since 2008 and is a Client Associate on the Kulesza team. Before joining EWM, Cathy taught Elementary Education for 14 years. 

Many clients have had the pleasure of speaking with Cathy or enjoying a slice of her amazing blueberry lemon or chocolate chunk bread; a client favorite. Cathy is a Michigan State University Graduate with a BA in Education and currently resides in Plymouth, Michigan with her husband and two daughters and two Australian Shepards.

Kira Kliczinski

Marketing and Public Relations Specialist

Kira is a dedicated public relations and marketing expert committed to strengthening community connections and promoting the EWM brand. With a background in content marketing, media relations, and communication strategy, Kira has a knack for finding the right approach to maintaining positive relationships. She is eager to contribute to EWM and gain more knowledge about marketing in the financial sector.

Kira received her Bachelor of Arts in public relations, with a minor in marketing, from Eastern Michigan University in 2021.

• “Brighton Business Packing Meals for Ukraine Refugees” Quote from Kira on WHMI 93.5 Local News

Catherine Powrozek

Director of First Impressions

Office Administrator

Cate joined Executive Wealth Management in 2023 as the Director of First Impressions. 

Cate brings over 14 years of experience in a a direct-service setting, where she will be focusing to create and maintain a positive environment at EWM. Previously working in health care, Cate learned and experienced having patience and empathy when working to understand others. She loves meeting new people and is excited to be the first face you see as you walk into EWM Brighton! 

Cate has a bachelor’s degree in community development from Central Michigan University. When not working, Cate enjoys teaching group fitness classes and where she enjoys showing everyone the best version of themselves. At home, Cate likes to spend time cooking, gardening, reading and spending time with her daughters and their dog Gidget.

Kobi Russell

PROCESSOR

Kobi Rusell joined EWM in 2022 as a Client Associate on the Processing team. He is diligent and detail-oriented, with a focus on client experience. His background in data entry has refined his skills in working more efficiently. Kobi looks forward to supporting EWM and its clients as he is passionate about helping others.  

Kobi is pursuing a finance degree from Oakland University and is a graduate of Cranbrook-Kingswood High School.

Joseph Beauchamp

Client Associate

Joe Beauchamp joined Executive Wealth Management in 2023 after graduation from Grand Valley University with a bachelor’s in business administration.

As one of EWM’s 2022 summer interns, Joe learned the ins and outs of how a finance firm works and how to interact with clients. He decided to join EWM full-time after graduating and looks forward to guiding and transforming as many clients as possible, providing financial and personal advice to anyone. Joe enjoys all sports and always stays active by working out and doing other physical activities.