CFP®-certified, business succession planning financial advisors in Illinois
The right financial advisor for you depends on how you weigh location, expertise, experience, the clients they typically serve, and how they work with you.
If you own a business and are thinking about stepping back or retiring, you need a business succession planning advisor to help you pass your company on smoothly. Without careful planning, you might face unexpected tax hits or disputes that can disrupt your business and family.
CFP® certification means these advisors have formal training in financial planning, which can help you navigate complex decisions.
- Exit timing strategy. Ask how they help you decide the best moment to transfer ownership to maximize value and minimize disruption.
- Tax implications. Confirm they understand Illinois-specific rules, including that retirement income isn’t taxed but property taxes can be high.
- Family and stakeholder coordination. See how they manage communication and agreements among heirs, partners, or employees to avoid conflicts.
- Valuation approach. Inquire about their methods for valuing your business fairly and realistically to support negotiations.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Sean B
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Naperville, IL
Edward Jones
Sean Bradshaw's 25 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to guide Illinois business owners through complex succession planning, including exit timing and tax considerations. As part of Edward Jones, a large firm managing over $1 trillion in assets, he offers a broad range of investment strategies and wealth management services, distinguishing him with extensive resources and a seasoned approach compared to smaller practices.
Experience: 26 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Kenneth D
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Oakbrook Terrace, IL
SAGE Private Wealth Group, LLC
Kenneth Dow's 29 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to guide Illinois business owners through complex succession planning, including exit timing and valuation strategies. Affiliated with Raymond James Financial, a large firm serving diverse clients, he offers flat-fee and hourly planning options, distinguishing him with flexible pricing and extensive resources compared to other advisors in the region.
Experience: 29 years
Avg account: $892,100
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Ellis S
CFP®, Series 66
Chicago, IL
Plante Moran financial advisors
Ellis Shanley is well-equipped to assist with business succession planning in Illinois, leveraging his CFP® certification and seven years of experience, including expertise in wealth management and concentrated stock management. Based in Chicago with Plante Moran Financial Advisors, he offers flat-fee options alongside a 1% AUM fee, serving high-net-worth clients with a strategic asset allocation approach that emphasizes analytical rigor and non-discretionary asset management.
Experience: 8 years
Avg account: $6,699,075
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David N
CFP®, ChFC®, Series 63
Oak Brook, IL
Chicago Oakbrook Financial Group
David Navarro's extensive 39 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to handle business succession planning effectively, especially in Illinois. As president of Chicago Oakbrook Financial Group, he offers flat-fee financial planning up to $40,000 and specializes in retirement income strategy and concentrated stock management, providing a broad approach compared to other advisors focused solely on succession planning.
Experience: 40 years
Avg account: $831,592
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Christopher P
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Oak Brook, IL
stonebridge wealth management llc
Christopher Plahm's 25 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to assist Illinois business owners with succession planning, including retirement plans like SEP and solo 401k. His independent, flat-fee approach and expertise in active portfolio management and wealth management distinguish him from others, while his leadership roles at Tall Pines Capital and Stonebridge Wealth Management highlight his seasoned industry presence.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $983,608
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