Cory Shrader CFA, CFP, CMT

As the founder of Black Creek Wealth Management, I wear many hats, and I like to think they all fit well. I lead our firm’s financial planning and investment management efforts, overseeing everything from strategy and trading to client relationships and day-to-day operations. But beyond the numbers, my real focus is helping clients feel confident, supported, and equipped to reach their goals.

My greatest motivation, both in building this firm and in showing up each day, is helping people achieve what they once thought impossible. Whether it’s growing wealth, reaching early retirement, or simply gaining peace of mind, I take pride in turning financial goals into meaningful realities.

Before entering finance, my path was anything but traditional. I trained at Le Cordon Bleu Academy and spent five years managing professional kitchens for Planet Hollywood and Ale House. I loved the creativity, energy, and teamwork of the culinary world, but as my family grew, I began seeking a career that offered more balance and a lasting impact.

In 2004, I launched a residential appraisal business, which I operated until 2015. During that time, the 2007 housing crisis forced me to return to restaurant work to help support my family. That experience reshaped my perspective entirely. I understood firsthand the stress financial uncertainty can create and saw how a lack of sound guidance can derail even the best intentions. From that moment, I made it my mission to ensure others never face those challenges alone.

Over the next 12 years, I built a career dedicated to helping others find financial stability and growth. At Fidelity Investments/TD Ameritrade, I worked with clients to design tailored financial plans and improve investment outcomes. Later, at Madden Advisory Services, I managed $250 million in client assets and led financial planning for hundreds of households. Over time, I realized that the larger a firm becomes, the harder it is to maintain the personal connection that makes great advising possible. That realization led me to found Black Creek Wealth Management in 2019.

Today, my work, and the firm’s foundation, is built on three principles: trust, integrity, and a genuine commitment to helping clients build the life they envision.

I’m a lifelong Florida native and live in Fleming Island with my wife of 20 years, Melissa, and our two teenagers, Jocelyn and Jacob. Outside the office, I enjoy playing hockey, traveling with my family, and playing bass at my church, where I also mentor young adults through job training programs.