Our Team

Richard David James
Founder & CEO
Richard James embarked on his journey in the insurance industry, achieving remarkable success over a span of four years. In 1984, driven by his vision to provide comprehensive financial solutions, he established Financial Services of America. Richard’s aim was to support clients in every facet of their financial lives, encompassing insurance, investments, tax planning, retirement, and estate planning.
With Richard at the helm, FSA has flourished into one of Michigan’s leading and esteemed financial service firms. His exceptional leadership earned him the prestigious title of Entrepreneur of the Year, while cultivating a thriving organizational culture that has consistently secured the Top Workplace award in Michigan for an impressive fifteen consecutive years.
Our Advisors and Insurance Professionals
Client Relationship Advisors/Specialists
Compliance

Nicholas Shaheen, CFP®, CIMA®
Chief Compliance Office, Financial Advisor

Kylie Thiessen
Compliance & Cashiering Team Lead
Marketing

Jason Swinney
Director of Marketing

Katie Hussein
Brand Director

Kristen Peoples
Business Developer

Joseph Fransi
Business Developer

Caryn Błaszczak
Recruiter

Dave James
Marketing Assistant
Operations

Darci Barrera
Director of Operations & Finance

Daniel Collins
Accountant

Laurie Distort
Administrative Assistant
Client Support

Monica Polus
Director of Client Services & HR

Caitlyn Gilmore
Client Support Team Lead

Erica Brooks
Client Support Specialist

Samantha Crowley
New Business Prep Specialist

Lauren Snyder
Client Support Specialist

Rosette Panares
Client Onboarding Team Lead

Sarah Apostol
New Business Prep Specialist

Veronica Jakubiak
New Business Prep Team Lead

Bonnie Nixon
First Impressions Team Lead

Adriana Hammond
Client Support Specialist

Alexandra Bruner
First Impressions

Heide Ashman
New Business Prep Specialist

Elizabeth Chivers
Client Onboarding Specialist

Cassandra Hawley
First Impressions

Sajjal Talukdar
Client Support Specialist

Karolina Ostowska-McInturf
New Business Prep Specialist

Abby Sobutka
Client Support Specialist

Rebekah Giggy
First Impressions

Samantha Douglass
First Impressions

Kaitlyn LaMagno
First Impressions
Core Values
A company is only as good as its people. We only employ those who uphold our core values. Our core values are our set of guiding principles that define the qualities we expect from everyone who works at FSA. These values ensure our clients receive the best possible financial planning and service.
World-Class Service: Vastly exceed clients’ expectations and build brand loyalty as a result.
Dedication: Be committed to your success—goals, career, and family.
One Team, One Goal: Work together for the prosperity of our clients and the company.
Driven: Aim to improve oneself, and demonstrate initiative in supporting the goals and overall strategy of the company.
Great Attitude: Enjoy what you do and embrace change.
Let’s Talk
Troy

50 West Big Beaver
Suite 500
Troy, Michigan 48084
Farmington Hills

37000 Grand River Ave
Ste 160
Farmington Hills, MI 48335
Okemos

3695 Okemos Rd
Ste 100
Okemos, MI 48864
tel: 800-977-9292 email: hello@fsa-1.com
