Financial Planning Outlook from a New Professional

By Franklin Gay, CFP^®, EA

What excites me most about being a financial planner is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Entering the financial planning field has been a fulfilling journey, marked by both challenges and rewarding experiences. Joining Tobias Financial Advisors in 2020 was a pivotal moment in my career, allowing me to leverage my background in finance and my certifications as a CFP^® professional and an Enrolled Agent to serve a diverse range of clients. 

Connections Beyond Finance

I have always been driven by a passion to help business owners and executives navigate their unique financial landscapes, as I come from a family of entrepreneurs and have seen some of the challenges firsthand. These clients often face complex financial challenges, and I thrive on developing tailored strategies to meet their specific needs.

One of the most exciting aspects of my work is the opportunity to build deep, lasting relationships with clients. Financial planning is more than just numbers; it's about understanding the real sacrifices and dreams behind each dollar saved. I feel privileged to guide clients through the complexities of markets, tax legislation, and the emotional aspects of financial decision-making. Each client's journey is unique, and I am committed to helping them achieve long-term success.

Guiding Tomorrow’s Planners

My involvement with NAPFA has been a significant part of my professional development. As the past president and incoming chair of the South Region Board of Directors, I have had the chance to connect with like-minded professionals and contribute to the growth and education of the next generation of financial planners. Winning the New Professional Award from NAPFA in 2024 was a humbling recognition of my efforts and commitment to the field.This role has allowed me to mentor young planners, sharing insights and experiences that I hope will inspire and guide them in their careers.

A Commitment to Quality and Growth

Beyond my work at Tobias Financial Advisors and my role with NAPFA, I am deeply invested in process improvement and business operations. Recently completing my MBA in process improvement at Nova Southeastern University is a testament to that investment. I believe optimizing business processes not only enhances efficiency but also improves the client experience, which is at the heart of what we do.

In addition to NAPFA, I also serve as the chair of the South Florida Student Chapter for the American Society of Quality, where I engage with students, alumni, and prospective students to highlight the value of process improvement and quality management throughout many different industries. Organizing educational and social events has allowed me to share my passion for this area and demonstrate its impact on professional growth and development.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy the vibrant outdoor activities South Florida offers with my wife, such as fishing and kayaking. These moments of leisure help me recharge and bring a balanced perspective to my work.  

Whether it's through personalized financial strategies, educational initiatives, or process improvement, my goal is to empower clients and colleagues to achieve their fullest potential. As I continue to grow in my career, I look forward to embracing new challenges and contributing to the evolving landscape of wealth management.

---

Franklin “Franko” Gay, CFP^®, EA, is a wealth advisor at Tobias Financial Advisors. With expertise in financial planning and taxation, he provides tailored strategies to a diverse range of clients, including business owners and executives.

image credit: Adobe Stock Images