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About Us

our firm history
A Firm Grounded in
Perspective and Planning

Florian Financial Group has served clients across Western New York since 1997. With offices in Rochester and Buffalo, we've built our practice on something both simple and rare. We put your interests first.

our values
The Principles Behind Every Plan

Fiduciary standard, empathy, adaptability are the three principles shape everything we do.


Fiduciary standard

We hold ourselves to a fiduciary standard because your interests should always come first. This commitment ensures that we prioritize your needs above all else, providing you with the trust and transparency you deserve. By adhering to this standard, we aim to build lasting relationships rooted in integrity and reliability.

 


empathy

We approach every client relationship with genuine empathy, taking the time to understand what matters most to you before we recommend anything. By truly listening and connecting with your unique situation, we are better equipped to offer solutions that align with your personal goals and aspirations. Our empathetic approach ensures that you feel heard, valued, and supported every step of the way.


adaptability

We stay adaptable because life changes, and your financial plan should too. In a constantly evolving world, flexibility is key to ensuring that your financial strategies remain relevant and effective. By embracing adaptability, we can respond swiftly to any changes in your circumstances, ensuring that your financial plan continues to meet your needs as they evolve over time. 


Our Approach

We prioritize transparency and clear communication. Our goal is to explain our actions and reasoning in simple terms. We strive to be accessible, responsive, and dedicated to your success. Building close relationships is key because wealth management thrives on trust and understanding. You're not just a portfolio number; you're someone we're devoted to helping achieve financial success.

Meet Our Financial Advisors

Robert M. Florian, CFP®, CLU®, CPA

President & CEO

Bob is President & CEO of Florian Financial Group LLC, an independent financial planning and investment management company located in Western New York. Hespecializes in connecting investment strategies with client’s retirement income goals and also helping solve complex financial planning issues.  Bob is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner certified by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU).

Prior to beginning his career as a financial advisor, Bob worked in the accounting department for Westwood Pharmaceuticals (Buffalo) and the internal audit department for its parent company, Bristol-Myers Squibb (New York City).  He earned his B.S. in Business Administration (Major: Accounting, Minor: Finance) from the School of Management of the University at Buffalo.

Bob volunteered on the Finance Committee and served four years as President with The Western New York United Against Drug and Alcohol Abuse Foundation, Inc., an organization devoted to raising funds to support local efforts designed to increase awareness, educate and mobilize individuals to actively undertake proven strategies to prevent substance abuse. He was also involved for over 15 years with the Lou Gehrig Youth Baseball and Softball League in Amherst, serving as coach and, for four seasons, as chair.


Jeffrey M. May, CFP®

Principal

716-810-9590

jeffmay@florianfinancialgroup.com

Jeff May is a Principal at Florian Financial Group, a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) in Williamsville, NY, serving individuals, families, and professionals with personalized, tax-smart financial strategies. With over 17 years of experience, Jeff specializes in comprehensive financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, tax optimization, and estate planning.

In addition to advising clients, Jeff plays a key leadership role in the firm’s direction and growth, contributing to its strategic planning and long-term vision. Known for his clear, client-first approach, he helps simplify complex topics like tax-efficient investing, retirement withdrawal strategies, and wealth transfer, empowering clients to make confident financial decisions. As a Certified Financial Planner™, Jeff provides ongoing fiduciary advice tailored to each client’s goals and life transitions.

Jeff lives in Amherst, NY, with his wife Kristen and their three children, Eliana, Jeff Jr., and Henry. Outside the office, he enjoys skiing, hiking, coaching youth soccer, and spending quality time with his family.

Meet Our Administrators

Sarah E. Gruszka

Client Service Supervisor

Sarah Gruszka joined Florian Financial Group in 1996. As client service supervisor, she oversees client account activities including the processing of account applications, account transfers, check requests and required minimum distributions.  Sarah also prepares client reports for review meetings and maintains the firm’s compliance manual.  
  
Sarah received her Associates degree in Early Childhood Education from Broome Community College and taught preschool for six years.  She is a Notary Public.

She is currently on the the Board of Directors for Beyond Support Learning and the Miracle League of Western New York.

Tami Vogel

Client Services

In 2018, Tami joined Florian Financial Group.  She enjoys her role in Client Services.  Tami is appreciated for her strong work ethic, can-do-attitude, sense of humor, and efficiency.  She resides in Lancaster with her husband, Mark and 3 children.  Tami enjoys camping, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.

Susan Charlesworth

Financial Service Assistant

Sue joined Florian Financial Group in March 2015. As Financial Service Assistant, she provides support for client account activities including tracking of investment trades, rebalancing and preparation of monthly statements. Along with assisting Sarah in office correspondence and daily tasks, Sue also maintains our website.

Sue received her Associate Degree in Liberal Arts, Social Sciences & Humanities. In her past life, she has been an Office Manager for three local dental practices.

Cole Florian

Portfolio Strategist

After an extensive period trading cryptocurrency in alternative markets, Cole joined Florian Financial Group in early 2024.  Cole is a member of FFG’s Investment Committee contributing to the oversight of existing investment strategies, build out of new investment models and technical analysis of individual equities.  Cole lives in Buffalo and can talk Premier League especially Chelsea F.C.

Dan Vater

Financial Planner

Dan Vater joined Florian Financial Group in January of 2022.  He has 4 years of previous experience as a financial advisor and previously worked in the craft beer industry.  

Dan grew up in Lakeview, NY and has lived in the Elmwood Village for the past 20 years.  He currently serves as Treasurer for the Western New York Book Arts Center in downtown Buffalo.

 

Ready to Experience the Difference?

Let's discuss how independent, fiduciary guidance can help you achieve your financial goals. Schedule a conversation with our team to explore whether we're the right fit for your wealth management needs.

Schedule a Consultation