About

We believe in empowering our clients with financial knowledge and confidence to help them pursue their life goals. Using customized, goal-oriented investment strategies, we will work with you to create a strategy that works for you.

Meet Our Team

Thomas J. Manolakes

Managing Principal

Phone Number

(217) 378-0354

With 38 years of experience as a Financial Advisor, Tom Manolakes brings a deep well of knowledge, dedication, and energy to every client relationship. As Managing Principal, Tom is known for his relentless focus on helping clients grow and preserve their assets, always driven by their best interests and long-term goals. His passion for the markets is evident—he genuinely loves what he does and even says he looks forward to Mondays because the markets reopen.

Tom’s commitment to excellence and client service has earned him recognition as one of Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors in both 2023 and 2024, as well as membership in the Wells Fargo Advisors Platinum Council in 2024 and 2025—honors that reflect both his professional expertise and the trust he has built with clients over the years.

Outside the office, Tom enjoys spending time with his dog, Charlie, and his family. He’s also an avid sports fan, always cheering on the Illini, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears.

2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors; Awarded April 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22 - 6/30/23 (Source: Forbes.com). 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22. The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous year's industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

The Platinum Council distinction is held by a select group of Financial Advisors within Wells Fargo Advisors as measured by business production from the previous year and professionalism.

Whitney Braddock

Operations Manager

Whitney Braddock brings a client-first mindset to her role as Operations Manager, where she is dedicated to supporting clients with thoughtful solutions and seamless service. Since joining the team in 2023, Whitney has been passionate about making a positive impact in every interaction, taking pride in helping clients navigate challenges and achieve their goals.

With a unique professional background that includes a decade of experience as a brewer, Whitney understands the value of precision, consistency, and hard work—all of which she brings to her current role. Her approachable style and problem-solving attitude make her a trusted partner to clients and colleagues alike.

Outside the office, Whitney enjoys spending time with her niece and nephews. She’s also a devoted sports enthusiast, especially when it comes to cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs and the Indiana Hoosiers Men’s Basketball team.

Joshua M. Manolakes

Account Manager

Phone Number

(217) 378-0352

Joshua M. Manolakes is an Account Manager with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. With a strong background in client services and a degree from the School of Business at Eastern Illinois University, Joshua brings strategic insight and a passion for research to his role. He thrives on the challenge of identifying growth opportunities and developing tailored solutions that drive client success.

His favorite aspect of the job is conducting in-depth research and planning initiatives that uncover potential areas for client expansion. Joshua’s enthusiasm for hospitality is matched by his dedication to helping clients achieve their goals through well-informed, strategic planning.

Outside of work, Joshua is an avid fan of Illini and Chicago sports. A former collegiate baseball player, he still enjoys spending time outdoors and catching games whenever possible—a perfect blend of his love for athletics and fresh air.