Skip to main content

Brian T. Gongaware, CFP®, SE-AWMA™

Director of Growth

Brian serves as the firm's Director of Growth, where he focuses on expanding relationships, strengthening referral pathways, and helping advisors connect with the right families and nonprofit organizations. He works closely with colleagues across the firm to set clear priorities, support business development efforts, and ensure a consistent experience for every client.

He is also a frequent speaker for professional groups and community organizations, often invited to share practical guidance on wealth planning, investing, and building meaningful advisor partnerships. Brian blends technical insight with a creative, people centered approach that helps clients and audiences alike think more clearly about their financial decisions and long term impact.

Licensing and Education

  • Bachelor of Arts in Business, Financial Planning Grove City College
  • Master of Business Administration in Finance and Management John F. Donahue Graduate School of Business, Duquesne University
  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional
  • Entrepreneurial Fellows Class Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence, University of Pittsburgh
  • Master Executive Course Magellan Executive Partners
  • Sports and Entertainment Accredited Wealth Management Advisor™ (SE-AWMA™), College of Financial Planning

Accomplishments and Honors

Brian has been recognized as a “Five Star Wealth Manager Award” recipient for 14 consecutive years (2012-2025). He has also had the privilege to coach and guide several hundred professional advisors through speaking engagements, mentorships and industry leadership opportunities. His passion for leading and coaching others in building financial literacy carries over into his work with the Pittsburgh community. Most recently, Brian was awarded the 2021 E. Alan Bates Community Service Award by Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry for his many years of public service in the Pittsburgh area.

Community Involvement

Brian enjoys helping businesses that are facing business challenges of growth and sustainability and has served numerous organizations in fiduciary and advisory board capacities. Brian is passionate about learning, applying past experiences to new scenarios, identifying emerging threats and opportunities and leveraging extensive financial expertise to add value to critical financial decisions. Brian is blessed with a loving family; his wife, Joyce, and two daughters. He cheers for his hometown teams with enthusiasm and unrealistic expectations.

Selected Recognitions