Michael Charleton Jr., CFP®, CFS, CLTC
President, CEO, Financial Strategist, Senior Wealth Manager
Michael Charleton founded Charleton Financial in 1985 with the goal of supporting families as they navigate important financial decisions. With more than 40 years of experience, he focuses on retirement income planning, wealth management, and legacy‑related considerations. Growing up as the third of seven children in Buffalo, NY, Michael developed a strong sense of perseverance and family early on. A gifted athlete who earned a college soccer scholarship, he discovered his calling in financial planning after beginning his career with IDS/American Express, where he realized he wanted to build a firm centered on personal relationships and individualized guidance.
Throughout his career, Michael has held leadership roles and worked with clients across a wide range of planning needs. His philosophy is straightforward: financial planning is about helping people understand their options, support the people they care about, and make thoughtful decisions about the future. That perspective deepened with the birth of his son, Max. Raising a child with unique needs gave Michael firsthand insight into planning for the unexpected, and he has since become an active advocate for the special‑needs community.
Outside of work, Michael enjoys reading, fitness, travel, and spending time outdoors.