Jef Fitch, a First Vice President of Investments at Braehead Wealth Advisors of Raymond James in Chicago, prioritizes providing investment and financial planning services tailored to the unique needs of his clients. With over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, Jef is committed to delivering the guidance his clients deserve.
His journey began with a bachelor’s degree in economics from Carroll College, followed by 15 years as a futures trader on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Transitioning from the trading floor, Jef became a financial advisor, starting at PaineWebber and later moving to Raymond James. To enhance his expertise, he became a Certified Financial Planner™ practitioner and earned the CIMA® designation. His licenses include Series 7, 63, 65, and an insurance license. He is a member of the Raymond James Retirement Plan & Institutional Advisory Council (RIAC), a dedicated group of advisors nationwide that have made retirement plan consulting a primary focus
Jef’s passion for education led him to become a Certified Financial Planning educator at DePaul University in Chicago. Responsible for the Retirement Planning and Employee Benefits module, he stays current with the ever-changing landscape of employee benefits. Teaching the CFP® course deepened his knowledge in insurance, investments, retirement planning, and estate planning. Additionally, Jef holds the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® (CPFA®) designation from the National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA) and the Investment Management Consultant designation from Raymond James.
Balancing his time between Illinois and Wisconsin, Jef is a proud father and grandfather.
Raymond James’ Retirement Plan Advisory Council membership is based on assets under management, number of qualified group retirement plans, designations obtained, and compliance record. Membership is not an endorsement, is not representative of any one client’s experience, and is not indicative of future performance. No fee is paid in exchange for this membership. Requalification is not required.
Investments & Wealth Institute™ (The Institute) is the owner of the certification marks “CIMA®” and “Certified Investment Management Analyst℠.” Use of CIMA® and/or Certified Investment Management Analyst℠ signifies that the user has successfully completed The Institute's initial and ongoing credentialing requirements for investment management professionals. The Investment Management Consultant designation recognizes those who complete the Raymond James Institute of Investment Management Consulting program.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design) and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.