As Director of Financial Planning* at Pettinelli Financial Partners, Cooper Grady oversees the development and leadership of the firm’s financial planning team. His focus includes providing comprehensive planning support to the advisory team, managing the planning team’s operations, and maintaining a high standard of client relationship management and service. Cooper also provides coaching to team members and is responsible for the oversight of planning processes and the tools and technology used to support the firm’s planning strategies.
Cooper earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance from Eastern Illinois University and holds several respected designations within the financial services industry, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Chartered Financial Consultant®, Chartered Life Underwriter®, Registered Social Security Analyst®, and Behavioral Financial Advisor™.
With a strong background in wealth management, Cooper brings experience from working with several advisory firms in South Carolina and, most recently, with Marathon Financial Group in Boston, MA. His work has centered on helping firms strengthen their financial planning frameworks, customizing personal financial plans for a wide range of client needs, and supporting advisors in business development and long-term client relationship management.
Originally from Central Illinois, Cooper believes education and diligence are critical components of long-term success. As he puts it: “You don’t have to know everything or every answer, but you need to be able to find those answers quickly, accurately, and transparently.” Cooper is a long-time advocate of the Special Olympics and regularly donates blood in his local community. Outside of work, he and his wife enjoy traveling and discovering new places together.
Cooper’s favorite quote reflects his philosophy on resilience and making the most of every moment:
“Life changes when you least expect it to. The future is uncertain. So, seize this day, seize this moment, and make the most of it.” — Jim “Jimmy” Valvano
*Cooper Grady is not affiliated with LPL Financial.