Brent J. Zackon, CFP® - RTD Financial

Brent is the Director of Financial Planning Standards and a Financial Planner at RTD Financial. Growing up, Brent excelled in two things: solving math problems and developing relationships. When trying to determine what career to pursue, his college advisors suggested financial planning; it was a perfect match! Brent is extremely passionate about learning his clients’ stories and helping them craft a plan to achieve the lives they envision.

Brent first joined RTD as a summer intern and was hired as an Associate Financial Planner upon graduation. Brent is engaged in all parts of the financial planning process and serves on multiple planning teams. Brent leads the Personal Wealth Management Committee, which is dedicated to ensuring our clients receive thoughtful, timely advice that supports their goals in a manner that’s efficient, collaborative and forward-thinking.

Brent graduated from Virginia Tech with Bachelor of Science degrees in Marketing and Finance. He completed the CFP Board Registered Financial Planning Program at Virginia Tech and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Brent is a member of the Financial Planning Association (FPA) of the Philadelphia Tri-State Area and served on the Chapter’s Board for five years as Director-At-Large, Director of NexGen, and Secretary.

Brent lives in Havertown with his wife Brittany and their son Jake. In his spare time, he likes to exercise and play sports, especially golf; he’s honing his skills to one day play some of the world’s best courses. He is an avid fan of all Philadelphia sports teams and enjoys watching Virginia Tech football games, where he worked as the team’s equipment manager during college.

Getting to know Brent

What do you enjoy most about working at RTD?

For me, it’s all about our team, our clients, and the work we do. I truly enjoy the people I work with and the culture that’s been created here at RTD. My colleagues are some of the smartest, most hardworking, thoughtful individuals. They’ve helped me grow and develop in my career and have created a sense of family where I feel at home. Our clients are also special. We have the most fun and caring clients that truly appreciate what we do for them; which ties into the work we do here at RTD. I truly believe the work we do impacts our client’s lives day-in and day-out. It all makes for a great experience!

What makes you good at what you do?

I am great at listening, in that I always seek to understand before adding any comments or questions. This goes a long way in developing trust, and understanding what is truly important to, and in the best interest of our clients.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?

Although I’ve received many great pieces of advice in my life, the one that sticks out the most is, “Get Comfortable, Being Uncomfortable.” When I moved to Philadelphia after college, I didn’t know many people in the area besides my family. This advice allowed me to realize that the uncomfortable aspects of life were the areas that were going to push me to learn and grow the most.

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am most proud of earning my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Designation. I spent many early mornings and late nights mastering the information and applying it within my role. All the hard work paid-off, and in 2019 I successfully passed! I was speechless when I saw the results; it brought tears to my eyes. Every time I look at the letters by my name, I feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude: accomplishment for persevering and gratitude for everyone that supported me in my journey to earning the CFP® designation.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

Growing up, I wanted to be a professional sports player. Sports were, and still are, such a big part of my life. Sports have a way of uniting a group of strangers around a common bond; I wanted to strengthen that bond as professional player. Working for Virginia Tech Football in college allowed me to be a part of this atmosphere and so I really got to see this bond firsthand. I still follow sports very closely and love to talk about anything related to sports with others!

What’s the most exciting vacation you’ve taken?

In the spring of 2016, my family and I took a trip to Europe, visiting Barcelona, Madrid and London. I fulfilled a personal sports accomplishment by attending an Atletico Madrid soccer (futbòl) game! We saw many historical sites in London and enjoyed some great food. It was an amazing trip!

Professional Designations & Memberships

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional

Financial Planning Association

Featured Articles

Brent J. Zackon, CFP®

IRAs – Traditional vs. Roth

Brent discusses the differences between Traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs, and considerations for each. Transcript: Many clients, and my family and friends, always ask me, “Brent, what’s a better option for saving: a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA?” Well there are many different factors that you may want to consider when pursuing these options. […]

IRAs – Traditional vs. Roth

Recent College Grads: Four “Must Do’s” in Managing Your Finances

March 16, 2016
Saving and Investing

Brent J. Zackon, CFP®

Recent College Grads: Four “Must Do’s” in Managing Your Finances

You recently graduated from college – you have your shiny new degree, a great job and are ready to tackle the world. Congratulations! Now is the perfect time to think about the best way to manage your newfound income. Maybe you’re living on your own and need help navigating your expenses. Perhaps you’d like to […]

Recent College Grads: Four “Must Do’s” in Managing Your Finances