Thomas C. Maher
CFP®, CPWA®, CRPC™
Managing Director
Developing meaningful relationships and understanding the “why” that motivates his clients has been Thom’s passion and focus throughout his 29-year career in the financial industry. Starting at a small firm in 1993, he learned the importance of developing personal connections. He joined Merrill Private Wealth Management Group in 1997 where, as a Portfolio Manager, he focused on the motivations and values behind his clients’ financial decisions and used these observations to develop individualized strategies to help them work towards their financial goals. Thom launched Maher Wealth Management in 2023 to continue helping individuals and families align their wealth and their values, and live their best life.
Outside of the office, Thom devotes his time to the Anthom Legacy Foundation. Founded in 2020 by him and his wife, Angela, Anthom was created to help pass on their family’s values to future generations. To this end, their foundation has contributed to community organizations such as EVIT, a college-prep and vocational training school where Thom also volunteers; Gompers, an organization that assists individuals with severe disabilities; and CeCe’s Hope Center, providing support and training for young female victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Thom resides in Gilbert, Arizona with his wife, Angela, and their two children: Jett, an aerospace engineer and Brooklyn, a nurse, are both recent graduates of the University of Arizona. Two Miniature Australian Shepherds, Scarlett and Finn, complete their family. When he isn’t working or volunteering, Thom enjoys spending time with his family, exploring the world, and solving complex puzzles.
Thom earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance degree from Utah State University in 1993. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®); a Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®); Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠ (CRPC®) CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning; and holds Series 7, 8, 24, 31, 63, and 65 securities licenses through LPL Financial.
Chris J. Kitaeff
CPFA®
Managing Director
Chris fell in love with wealth management at a young age and built a 19-year career centered around investment management and client success. Chris started his career on Wall Street as an analyst at Financial Risk Management (FRM), a multi-billion dollar fund of hedge funds. He then transitioned to becoming an investment banker at ROTH Capital Partners in Southern California where he focused on mergers and acquisitions, capital restructurings and equity raises. In 2009, he joined Merrill Lynch, where he transitioned to working with individuals and their families.
For 15 years, he has been dedicated to serving his client's best interests and providing excellent service. He has received the Forbes Best in State Advisor Award for four consecutive years, from 2021 to 2024. In 2024, Chris joined Maher Wealth Management as a Managing Director to continue that success and provide his clients with more financial freedom, backed by an independent LPL Financial firm. Chris believes clients are better served with an "open architecture" type approach to wealth planning. By joining an independent firm, Chris can provide his clients with the absolute best-customized solution to meet their needs.
Outside of the office, Chris and his family are dedicated to supporting and raising awareness for children with dyslexia. With the right support and resources, Chris believes this learning difference can be turned into a real-life superpower.
Chris resides in Paradise Valley, Arizona with his wife and children. Outside of work and charitable initiatives, Chris enjoys college football, coaching youth sports, reading, and traveling.
Chris graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Finance degree from the University of Arizona. He also received his Master’s degree in Management from the University of Arizona. He is a CERTIFIED PLAN FIDUCIARY ADVISOR™ (CPFA®) and holds Series 7, 66, and 63 securities licenses through LPL Financial.
DeAnn Welch
Chief Operating Officer
DeAnn is an accomplished wealth management professional with over two decades of experience in the industry. Establishing long-lasting and meaningful client relationships while striving to exceed their expectations is her passion. Prior to joining Maher Wealth Management, DeAnn was the Assistant Vice President and Wealth Management Associate at the WMA Group. DeAnn relocated to Phoenix from Southern California in 2012. She has two sons and a grandson, her source of pride and joy, who also lives in Arizona. When she is not at work, DeAnn enjoys traveling and being outdoors. DeAnn is a graduate of the University of North Texas and holds Series 7 and 66 licenses through LPL Financial.
Mary Mann
Client Services Specialist
Mary has dedicated herself to providing quality client service throughout her wealth management career. She started at UBS in Los Angeles, working with high net worth clients as an assistant to the practice owner. In 2010, she moved to Phoenix and accepted a position at Morgan Stanley working with executives. In 2022, she joined Thom Maher and the WMA Group as a Wealth Management Client Associate, and presently holds the title of Client Services Specialist at Maher Wealth Management, where she is an integral part of the team.
Mary is fortunate to have six children and fourteen grandchildren located in five U.S. states and abroad, offering her ample joy and numerous opportunities for travel.
Mary holds series 7 and 66 licenses through LPL Financial.
Doug Blanchard
Administrative Consultant
Doug is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. Having held client service roles at esteemed firms like Lakeview Capital Partners, My Benefits, LLC., and FSC Securities Corp., Doug brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Maher Wealth Management Team.
Doug is committed to providing exceptional support and works closely with advisors to assist clients in working towards achieving their goals. His strong work ethic and positive attitude make him an invaluable asset to the team.
Originally from Thibodaux, LA, and a long-time Atlanta resident, Doug enjoys spending his free time outdoors, whether it's taking a leisurely stroll by the lake or beach, tending to his garden, or grilling with friends. He also finds joy in staying active at the gym, exploring local restaurants, and attending theater and symphony performances. As a passionate animal lover, Doug has a soft spot for all creatures, great and small.
