Jonathan M. Gardey - President and Chief Executive Officer
Before he joined the firm in 1993, Jon learned leadership, discipline, and responsibility from six years in the US Navy. Jon served on an aircraft carrier in the Indian Ocean and was Chief Engineer on a high-speed hydrofoil in the Caribbean.
Prior to his Naval service, Jon’s academic career began at the University of Wisconsin. When he returned from the Navy, he continued his studies and earned a MBA in both Finance and Money and Financial Markets from Columbia University.
Following a successful military service and graduate studies, Jon pursued a career in finance and gained the designations of Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) charterholder and Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional. This knowledge and years of experience made Jon a valuable team player as well as a leader and trusted professional.
In his 22+ year career with Gardey Financial Advisors, Jon has worn and continues to wear many hats. In addition to his duties as President and CEO, he is also, a Financial Advisor, the Director of Research, Chairman of the Investment Strategy Committee, Chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee and Chairman of the Leadership Committee.
Jon brings his knowledge, experience and leadership skills to a number of key institutions in his field, and he is also an active member of his community. He is a Past-President of the Northeastern Michigan Estate Planning Council, a member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society of Detroit. He is a member of the Board of Directors at financial, educational, and private enterprises, including Covenant Healthcare System, Delta College Foundation Investment Advisory Committee, and Central Equity Investments Incorporated.
Jon lives in Freeland with his wife and two son’s. His two older daughters are attending Saginaw Valley State University and Central Michigan University. He enjoys spending time with his children, serving as Treasurer of his eldest son’s Boy Scout troop, assistant coach for his youngest son’s football team, and also helping children in his community through the Saginaw READ program. In his spare time, he has earned a black belt in Taekwondo and also enjoys racing sailboats.
