Man in a plaid suit and blue tie standing against a white background, smiling at the camera

Charles M. Russo, CFP®

President, CEO

Charlie moved from New York to California in 1982 and began his career in the Financial Planning industry with Mutual of New York in Beverly Hills. In 1994, Charlie decided to extend his education and obtain his Certified Financial Planning designation. In addition to completing a comprehensive financial planning curriculum approved by the CFP Board, CFP® professionals are required to complete continuing education coursework. This includes a CFP Board-approved code of ethics course that sets forth their ethical responsibilities to the public, clients and employers. CFP® professionals must have a minimum of three years’ experience in the personal financial planning process prior to earning the right to use the CFP® certification marks.


Charlie has been helping individuals, business owners and health professionals reach their financial goals for over 30 years. In effort to provide clients with a more personalized and comprehensive approach, he began Classic Financial in 2000. Charlie is also an Investment Advisor Representative and Insurance Agent. He is a member of the MDRT’s Top of the Table and has been recognized several times for his financial aptitude.