Black Diamond believes better-trained planners create better outcomes for the firms’ clients. We require our advisors to pursue advanced credentialing with the eventual goal of completing CFP ® certification.
You deserve a holistic financial roadmap. Only CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals are rigorously trained in 72 areas of financial expertise and must accrue thousands of hours of experience prior to earning their certification. With a CFP® professional, you get a financial planner partner committed to working in your best interest and the confidence that comes with building a comprehensive plan.
Important links for our Finra defined team credentials below:
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CFP®, AIF®, ChSNC® | FOUNDER
“I WANTED A FIRM WITHOUT THE SALES CULTURE, AND I HAVE THAT WITH BLACK DIAMOND FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS.”
Philosophy
Jeff opened Black Diamond Financial Solutions in 2008 when he realized his clients needed more robust solutions to their financial concerns. His clients deserved unbiased advice without the constraints of product contracts and excessive fees that were prominent within the large firms where he had previously worked. Black Diamond’s advisors work for their clients, not Wall Street shareholders. He also designed and refined a process, The Diamond Process, to help clients piece together the large financial puzzle that everyday people struggle to understand and manage.
Over the years, he has built a team of ambitious and intelligent advisors who also feel that their clients’ interests come first. The firm requires their advisors to continuously seek knowledge in their craft by earning and maintaining prominent industry designations.
Experience
Jeff grew up in the Coal Region of Pennsylvania where there is a strong work ethic and a deep seeded desire to treat everyone as if they were family. At an early age, he worked a paper route and invested these earnings in the stock market. After working several internships at a major Wall Street firm during college and graduating with honors from Susquehanna University with a Finance degree, he landed his first job as a Financial Advisor with Dean Witter at the age of 22.
Over the past twenty years, he has earned numerous designations through continuing education including becoming a Certified Financial Planner® practitioner, Accredited Investment Fiduciary® and the Charted Special Needs Consultant® designations.
Jeff lives in Greenwood, Delaware with his wife, Andrea, and two children, Laci and Roman, as well as their dog, Trooper. He is a self-described baseball addict and memorabilia collector.
Jeff has used his talents to serve on numerous community and charitable boards including the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, Salute Our Soldiers, and Southern DE Base Ball Club. Currently he serves as the Treasurer for the Milford Museum and as a board member for Trinity Academy in Pennsylvania.
MSFS, CPWA® CFP®, CIMA®, CLU®, ChFC®, EA, AEP®, PARTNER
“CONSISTENTLY BETTERING MYSELF THROUGH FINANCIAL EDUCATION SHOWS MY CLIENTS HOW MUCH THEIR SITUATION MEANS TO ME”
Kenneth Reese graduated from Penn State University in 2008 where he enjoyed studies in finance and law. He graduated with a bachelor degree in Political Science with a Business minor but decided to pursue a career as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioner incorporating his passion for finance into his career path. His ten years of wealth management experience come from both a bank and a boutique planning environment. Ken continued to deepen his financial planning knowledge by earning several designations including becoming a ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant), a CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter), which are both awarded by the American College and an Enrolled Agent, awarded by the Internal Revenue Service acknowledging his in-depth knowledge of individual taxation, corporate and partnership taxation and Circular 230 regulations, the ethics and rules governing the IRS practices. Ken is now working on obtaining his Master’s Degree in Financial Services.
Ken works with business owners, professionals, retirees, and pre-retirees to develop tax centered financial planning strategies that incorporate cash flow analysis, portfolio management, and risk management into one comprehensive plan that is easy to understand and implement. This process requires closely working with his clients’ other trusted accounting, banking, and legal advisors. Ken transitioned to Black Diamond Financial Solutions because of the firm’s long term vision which is centered on comprehensive planning and truly being a family’s trusted lifetime advisor. Ken appreciates that the planners at Black Diamond Financial Solutions are not looking for clients right now; instead, they are looking for clients for life. The most important thing to Ken is making sure his clients are confident, comfortable, and in control of their finances.
He currently resides in Lewes, Delaware with his wife, Hilary, and young daughters, Jane and Carys. He is an enthusiastic sports fan who enjoys any and all types of athletic competition. Ken is a founding father of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity at Penn State University and is currently developing ways to influence policymakers to better prepare incoming college student about the cost of education. He believes student loan debt is the number one problem for his generation and is vehemently committed to being an agent of change for that cause. Ken also serves in various philanthropic roles in Sussex County, Delaware.
CFP®, CRPC®, PARTNER
“WEALTH MANAGEMENT IS MORE THAN STOCKS AND BONDS. IT’S ABOUT HELPING MY CLIENTS USE THEIR RESOURCES TO LIVE THE LIFE THEY WANT TO LIVE.”
Cameron Fitzgerald joined Black Diamond Financial Solutions in May of 2013. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of Tennessee in 2005. Since then, he has earned the CFP® and CRPC® credentials. In July of 2020, Cameron became a partner of Black Diamond Financial Solutions.
Attention to detail, good listening skills, excellent service, and exceptional communication are just a few of the traits that characterize Cameron. Working in a team atmosphere allows him to focus his time on his clients and their financial needs. Realizing that each client has unique financial needs, Cameron works with each individual to create effective and customized financial plans to address their goals.
Born and raised in Sussex County, Delaware, Cameron currently resides in Lewes, DE with his wife, Casey, their son, Teigen, and their daughter, Thea.
CFP® | CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER
“YEARS OF PRACTICING AS A FINANCIAL PLANNER HELPS MY CLIENTS PREPARE FOR A FUTURE THEY’VE YET TO EXPERIENCE”
Mark is a graduate of the University of Detroit where he received his Bachelor Degree in Chemical Engineering and a minor in Economics, then continued his education obtaining his MBA from SUNY Buffalo. He spent thirty two years in the chemical industry in a variety of roles in New York and Delaware. He decided on a career change upon “retiring” in 2008 and pursued a career as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner, satisfying a long-time interest in investing and helping others with financial planning. Mark has been involved in wealth management since 2008 and transitioned to Black Diamond Financial Solutions in 2017 because of the firm’s long-term vision which is centered on comprehensive planning and truly being a trusted lifetime advisor. He is also a past President and a long-time Board member of the Delaware chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals.
Mark works with individuals, families and closely held business owners to build their financial freedom. He follows the seven steps of the financial planning process:
The process maps out where the client is headed and establishes a commitment between the client and Mark showing clear and concise steps to be taken on the journey.
Mark resides in Felton, DE with his wife, Sally. They have three adult sons. He is a competitive Bridge player, enjoying playing in regional tournaments. When their schedule allow, Sally and he are avid travelers.
“I take great joy in implementing new processes and overseeing our staff to create a streamlined and thorough experience for our clients.”
As the newest member to Black Diamond, Jennifer joins our team with an extensive background in the financial planning industry. Jennifer longs to bring peace to clients who are facing a challenge on their path of life or who are simply ready to make a step in a new direction. As the Director of Operations for Black Diamond Financial Services, Jennifer will advocate for continuous improvement and growth for the company in an effort to deliver a better client experience. Jennifer is often described as one of the kindest, most organized people you’ll meet!
When Jennifer is not in the office, you’ll find her spending time with her husband and daughters. She enjoys being outdoors, taking care of her plants and cooking out with her family.
“Helping couples ensure one person is never left to figure out the finances alone if something unexpected happens”
Derrick is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University where his studies focused around leadership and communication. He spent 9 years helping small businesses achieve their financial goals before joining the Black Diamond team in 2023.
Derrick emphasizes helping couples and recent widows navigate financial planning during life transitions, especially when financial responsibility shifts after the loss of a spouse. His financial plans focus on clarity, patience, and trusted guidance so no one is rushed into decisions during an already difficult time.
Born and raised in Wilmington, DE, Derrick enjoys spending his free time at the golf course or a day at the beach looking for shells.
CFP®, CBDA®, ASSOCIATE ADVISOR
Originally from Dover, Delaware. Joe is the newest member of our team. A recent graduate from the University of Delaware with a double major in Financial Planning and Wealth Management and a concentration in Finance. During his time at the University of Delaware, he was referred to as “the man of many nicknames” and one nickname stood out “smiley.” If you ever see Joe he is always smiling and never in a bad mood. He will do whatever he can do to make the day better for others rather than his. He did not like the nickname “smiley” at first but as more and more people around campus started to call him that it started to grow on him.
Joe has plenty of work experience, especially in the hospitality and service industry. Starting at the age of 14 he’s worked at Fractured Prune, Casapulla’s South, Fin’s Ale House and Raw Bar, and finally Starboard Claw in the beach area where he resides now. He wants to take that experience and apply the skills he’s learned in the hospitality industry. To build trust with his clients, offer that extra hand of help, and put smiles on peoples’ faces.
Joe likes to spend his free time playing sports such as Beach Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, and Skiing. Joe is also a Travel Head Soccer Coach for Delaware Football Club down here at the beach, coaching ten and eleven-year-olds. He wants to give back to the community as much as possible to make an impact by his actions rather than words. He loves to be surrounded by his family and friends and often reiterates he is not the man he is today without them.
ASSOCIATE ADVISOR
“True financial freedom transcends simply having the means to indulge in any desire; it’s about having the resources to pursue what truly matters to you.“
Growing up along the picturesque Delaware beaches, Wesley cultivated a deep love for the outdoors, often spending his weekends riding the waves at Cape Henlopen or casting a line in the serene waters of the Delaware Bay.
After graduating from the University of Delaware with a degree in Finance, Wesley embarked on his professional journey right in his hometown.
Having honed his skills in the hospitality industry since the age of 14, Wesley developed a profound understanding of service and a genuine passion for helping others. This combination of interests naturally led him to a rewarding career in Financial Planning. For Wesley, there is no greater fulfillment than empowering others to achieve their financial goals—it’s a truly priceless endeavor.
“I ENJOY WORKING WITH OUR CLIENTS & ADVISORS TO DELIVER AN EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE EXPERIENCE.”
Rosalie was born in Wilmington, Delaware, and raised in the serene town of Ellendale on a horse farm specializing in foaling and breeding horses. Growing up surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of rural life, she developed a deep appreciation for nature, which has greatly influenced her work as a professional wildlife photographer.
Since 2015, Rosalie has been a dedicated member of the Black Diamond team, where she began her career as an Administrative Assistant. Through hard work and a commitment to excellence, she advanced to the roles of Senior Account Representative and Office Manager.
Before joining Black Diamond, Rosalie built a solid foundation in the medical field as a Pharmacy Technician. This experience honed her attention to detail and organizational skills and instilled a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility.
Rose lives on a charming farm with her husband, where they enjoy the peacefulness of rural life. In her spare time, she can often be found tending to her flower garden, feeding the birds, or capturing stunning photographs that reflect her love for nature and beauty.
Whether managing the bustling office environment at Black Diamond or exploring creative pursuits on the farm, Rose brings dedication, passion, and a unique perspective to everything she does.
Originally from Florida, Samantha moved to Delaware in 2007 and lives with her husband Bill in Ocean View. She is an animal rescue advocate and has a special place in her heart for American Bulldogs. She enjoys collecting succulents and feeding the local birds and squirrels from the front porch.
Samantha has joined the team at Black Diamond as a Junior Account Representative where she can apply her skills of customer service and administrative experience in a capacity to serve the clientele of Black Diamond Financial Solutions. She comes from the field of social service where she had the unique opportunity to serve the Developmental and Intellectually Disabled Community of Sussex County.
“I am committed to providing excellent service to our clients and being their first point of contact. I truly enjoy contributing to the success of our team.”
Having joined Black Diamond Financial Solutions in early 2023, Ariel brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the team. She grew up in Lewes, Delaware, and currently resides in Milford with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.
With a background in esthetics, Ariel has a deep passion for skincare and beauty. Before transitioning into financial services, she honed her customer service skills and financial knowledge through her work in retail banking.
Outside of her professional life, Ariel enjoys a variety of hobbies. She finds joy in thrifting, loves family get togethers, and cherishes spending quality time with her boys. Her diverse interests and experiences contribute to her dynamic approach to both her personal and professional endeavors.
Receptionist
“I love connecting with people and helping them feel comfortable from the moment they walk in or call. If I can make someone’s day a little easier, that’s the best part of my job.”
Having joined Black Diamond Financial Solutions in March 2026, Erin brings over 10 years of customer service experience to her role as receptionist. Originally from Harford County, MD, she moved to the area about a year ago and previously worked as a fitness coordinator at a retirement community, where she developed strong organizational and relationship-building skills. She is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for clients while keeping daily office operations running smoothly.
Outside of work, Erin enjoys spending time with her family, exploring local farmers markets, and cheering on her favorite football teams, bringing the same energy and enthusiasm to both her personal and professional life.
