CONSERVE. PLAN. GROW.®
Advisor Spotlight: Michael McLeod, CFP®, CTFA
May 31, 2025
A Personal Approach to Planning
At The Fiduciary Group, we take a relationship-first approach to helping families plan for the future—and no one models that mindset better than Michael McLeod. As Senior Wealth Advisor and Director of Financial Planning, Michael guides clients through every stage of their financial journey, helping them develop thoughtful strategies rooted in clarity, structure, and trust.
A Foundation Built on Family and Finance
Michael’s interest in financial planning was shaped early. Raised in Savannah, he watched his parents manage and grow their respective businesses—his mother a successful caterer, his father the owner of a building supply company. Spreadsheets and financial decisions were a regular part of family life.
“I’m an analyzer, and that comes from my dad. He was very thoughtful, thinking ahead, planning ahead. So that structure and planning part just kind of came naturally to me,” Michael says.
With a strong background in math and an appreciation for long-term thinking, Michael was drawn to the financial services industry. He spent the first chapter of his career as an advisor with a large trust and financial services company in Atlanta before returning home to work with The Fiduciary Group.
Why Planning Still Inspires Him
What keeps Michael excited about financial planning after nearly two decades in the field?
“It’s always evolving. Tax laws change, market performance changes, estate rules change, and family situations change. There’s always something new to work through.”
He describes planning as a constantly moving puzzle—one that requires critical thinking, deep listening, and ongoing collaboration with clients.
More Than Numbers: Aligning with Values
Michael views financial planning not as a transactional service, but as a long-term partnership.
“I really enjoy helping clients work through their priorities and ensuring their financial plans align with what they care about. It's a process that builds trust over time.”
For him, the goal is not simply to manage money, but to help clients use their resources in a way that reflects their goals, family dynamics, and legacy.
Cash Flow is the Foundation
One area where Michael often sees clients struggle is with understanding their future income needs.
“Cash flow is often underestimated, especially in retirement. People are used to having income come in consistently. When that changes, it’s a big shift, and sometimes a little scary.”
He works closely with families to model their financial lives in retirement and develop flexible, resilient plans that provide peace of mind.
A Focus on Multigenerational Planning
Working with families over time is one of the most rewarding aspects of Michael’s role.
“When a client passes away and we’re able to step in and continue working with their spouse and children—that’s when the depth of the relationship really shows.”
Michael believes TFG’s fiduciary model shines in these long-term partnerships, offering consistency, clarity, and care when families need it most.
Deep Roots in Savannah
Though he spent time in Atlanta early in his career, Michael ultimately returned to Savannah—both to raise a family and to build community.
“Savannah is a relationship-driven place, and that’s how I operate. You build trust by showing up, staying consistent, and doing what’s right over the long term.”
Michael serves as Treasurer and Trustee for the Historic Savannah Foundation, Vice President of the Savannah Estate Planning Council, and is actively involved in several other civic organizations.