Jef Fitch – Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence

After more than three decades in the financial services industry, Jef Fitch retired in December 2025. Jef was the founder of Braehead Wealth Advisors of Raymond James and in 2023, joined True North Retirement Partners.

Throughout his career, Jef was dedicated to delivering personalized investment and financial planning solutions, always putting the unique needs of his clients first.

Jef’s professional path began with a bachelor’s degree in economics from Carroll College, followed by 15 years as a futures trader on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. His transition from the trading floor to financial advising marked the start of an impactful journey.

Committed to continuous learning, Jef earned the Certified Financial Planner^® (CFP^®) designation, Certified Investment Management Analyst^® (CIMA^®), Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor^® (CPFA^®) and the Investment Management Consultant designation from Raymond James. He shared this passion for learning by becoming a CFP^® educator at DePaul University, teaching the Retirement Planning and Employee Benefits module.

His leadership extended to serving on the Raymond James Retirement Plan & Institutional Advisory Council (RIAC), a national group focused on retirement plan consulting.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jef is a devoted father and grandfather. His commitment to clients, colleagues, and education has left an indelible mark on the industry and the lives he touched.

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.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP^®, Certified Financial Planner^®, and CFP^®(with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.