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When You ACT,
You Get More

More strategy. More clarity. More of what matters—delivered by a fee-only fiduciary financial planning and investment management firm that puts your interests first.

We help successful families, executives, and professionals simplify complex finances, pursue tax-efficient strategies, and plan for what’s next.

See If We're a Fit

Who We Serve Best

Your financial life is complex—and moving fast. If you value strategy, clarity, coordination, and expert partnership, you’re in the right place.

Senior Executives Navigating
Complex Compensation

You’re managing a demanding career, and your compensation reflects it—stock options, RSUs, deferred compensation plans, and bonuses that carry real opportunity and real risk. You want to reduce tax friction, align benefits with long-term goals, and make informed financial decisions without pressure or product sales. We help design strategies to address complexity and support your financial goals.

Families Managing Significant Wealth and Pivotal Decisions

You have significant assets or income, growing complexity, and the responsibility that comes with both. You may be navigating major life events—retirement, a business sale, inheritance, or preparing to transfer wealth to the next generation. You want integrated advice that connects investments, taxes, estate planning, and legacy goals. We provide thoughtful collaboration, clear guidance, and a relationship grounded in trust.

Credit Union Executives with
Unique Benefit Packages

You’ve built a mission-driven career and earned benefits like 457 plans or split-dollar arrangements—benefits that require specialized, objective guidance. You want advice that aligns with your values, reduces unnecessary tax exposure, and takes advantage of your Tax Delta™ superpower. We understand the credit union movement and help you uncover opportunities within your current benefits package—so it works as hard for you as you do for your members.

Here’s What You Can Expect — And What You Won’t Get With Us

We guide you with intentional strategies—and never rely on gimmicks, commissions, or shortcuts. Here’s what sets us apart.

What We Do

What We Don't Do

  • We build financial strategy. We don't sell products. Every decision tied to your bigger picture, not to a commission check.
  • We carefully analyze each client’s tax situation for planning opportunities. Buried inside are opportunities most advisors never bother to dig for.
  • We run portfolios lean and mean. Low-cost, transparent portfolios aligned with client objectives. No hidden drag.
  • We specialize in addressing complex financial situations. Complexity isn’t a burden—it’s where the best opportunities hide.
  • We put tech in the driver’s seat. Smarter tools. Deeper insights. Faster answers.
  • We don’t do one-and-done. Financial planning isn’t a transaction; it’s an ongoing relationship.
  • We don’t stay in our lane. We dig in, do the research, and coordinate taxes, benefits, investments—and bring in specialists when it moves the needle.
  • We don’t avoid complexity—we’re built for it, and it’s where we do our best work.
  • We don’t buy Wall Street B.S. or “exclusive” plays. Transparent, broad access and low-total-cost portfolios—not secrets, hype, or club deals.
  • We don’t sell products. No commissions, no quotas, no sales goals—just fiduciary guidance.

Here’s What You Can Expect — And What You Won’t Get With Us

We guide you with intentional strategies—and never rely on gimmicks, commissions, or shortcuts. Here’s what sets us apart.

What We Do

  • We build financial strategy. We don't sell products. Every decision tied to your bigger picture, not to a commission check.
  • We treat your tax return like a gold mine. Buried inside are opportunities most advisors never bother to dig for.
  • We run portfolios lean and mean. Low total cost. No fluff. No hidden drag.
  • We thrive where others tap out. Complexity isn’t a burden—it’s where the best opportunities hide.
  • We put tech in the driver’s seat. Smarter tools. Deeper insights. Faster answers.

What We Don't Do

  • We don’t do one-and-done. Financial planning isn’t a transaction; it’s an ongoing relationship.
  • We don’t stay in our lane. We dig in, do the research, and coordinate taxes, benefits, investments—and bring in specialists when it moves the needle.
  • We don’t avoid complexity—we’re built for it, and it’s where we do our best work.
  • We don’t buy Wall Street B.S. or “exclusive” plays. Transparent, broad access and low-total-cost portfolios—not secrets, hype, or club deals.
  • We don’t sell products. No commissions, no quotas, no sales goals—just fiduciary guidance.

Our Clients Say It Best

These reviews reflect the care, clarity, and professionalism we bring to every relationship. We encourage feedback—but never compensate or edit what’s shared. What you read here is 100% authentic. You can read more of our reviews here. 

  • Not only do I get excellent advice; Wes Johnson really understands my goals and needs. I've always found the practice and Wes easy to reach.

    Elizabeth Brown Avatar Elizabeth Brown
    May 27, 2024

    Doug English and the ACT Advisors staff are well into their second decade with my family as trusted advisors. Doug helped me map out a feasible plan for early retirement and a secure financial future. Doug is always very responsive to any inquiry or need, and I love his levelheaded approach to financial success. I highly recommend Doug!

    David Weir Avatar David Weir
    May 27, 2024

  • Doug English and everyone at ACT Advisors are simply the BEST!!! They are incredibly knowledgeable about all aspects of the financial arena and investing. Doug has spent his entire career in this profession and it shows. I doubt there is anything that he doesn't know. His team is personable, professional and super easy to work with. I feel so fortunate to have been referred to this amazing team. I am super happy to be their client and highly recommend them without reservation. These folks are the BEST...!!!

    Jody Ferrill Avatar Jody Ferrill
    January 14, 2024

    Pat Latta is always keeping my risk threshold in mind and he is aware of my husband's health issues. He performs his job with professionalism and attention to detail. He knows what is important to me in investing practices.

    Carol Johnson Avatar Carol Johnson
    May 27, 2024

Doug and Wes are awesome, down to earth, the take complex issues and break them down into plain English (pun intended) and most of all - I feel safe with... read more

Harry g.

Pat Latta is always keeping my risk threshold in mind and he is aware of my husband's health issues. He performs his job with professionalism and attention to detail. He... read more

Carol J.

Over a decade ago , I decided it was time to get over my stock market phobia and I began to work with Doug English . It was one... read more

Ann M.
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These reviews are from current ACT Advisors clients who were not compensated for their feedback. Client experiences may vary and are not indicative of future results. Reviews appear as posted on a third-party site without editing.

Meet Our Team

From your first meeting to every milestone ahead, our team is here to offer steady guidance and exceptional service.

Doug English, CFP®

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

Doug is a fee-only financial advisor with more than 20 years of experience guiding senior executives through complex financial decisions. He specializes in executive compensation and benefit coordination, including 457 plans, equity comp strategies, and split-dollar arrangements. As the founder of ACT Advisors and host of the C.U. on the Show podcast, Doug is a trusted voice in both nonprofit and corporate executive planning.

Learn More About Doug

Wes Johnson, CFP®

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

Wes is a fee-only financial planner who helps families and professionals manage wealth with clarity and care. With over 15 years of experience and a background in executive benefit strategy, Wes focuses on investment management, tax-smart planning, and long-term financial coordination. He leads ACT’s Charleston-area office and serves on the board of the Financial Planning Association of South Carolina.

Learn More About Wes

Pat Latta

Financial Advisor

Pat is a fee-only financial advisor with more than two decades of experience in retirement planning and wealth management. He works closely with clients at or near retirement to simplify their transition, clarify their options, and build a plan that supports the next chapter with confidence. Known for his thoughtful approach and personal connection, Pat helps clients make meaningful decisions with less stress and more confidence.

Learn More About Pat

Ruth Hays

Financial Advisor

Ruth is a fee-only financial advisor who works with professionals and families to bring clarity and structure to complex financial decisions. She focuses on coordinating key areas of financial planning—aligning investments, tax considerations, and long-term goals into a cohesive strategy. With deep roots in Asheville and a long-standing connection to the firm, Ruth is committed to building thoughtful, lasting relationships grounded in trust and clear guidance.

Learn More About Ruth

Nicolette Speziale, CFP®

Operations Manager

Nicolette is responsible for day-to-day operations and administration of client service, financial planning, and marketing teams.

Learn More About Nicolette

Jennifer English

Chief Compliance Officer

Jennifer is responsible for risk management within the organization, and ensures compliance with laws, regulatory requirements, and policies and procedures.

Learn More About Jennifer

Jerri Moran

Client Service & Compliance Specialist

Prior to joining ACT Advisors, Jerri gained experience in the financial services industry, where she excelled in customer service, mortgages, and commercial lending. She is committed to delivering outstanding service to ACT Advisors® clients.

Learn More About Jerri

Nate Pierce

Associate Wealth Planning Specialist

Nate is committed to empowering others to work towards their financial goals. With a strong foundation in wealth management and financial planning, he crafts tailored strategies that reflect each client’s unique aspirations.

Learn More About Nate
Meet Our Entire Team

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See Around Corners. Navigate with Clarity.

It Starts with a Conversation—Not a Commitment

We don’t believe in sales pressure or one-size-fits-all advice. 
Just a thoughtful conversation about where you are, what’s ahead, and whether we’re the right partner to help. 

See If We're a Fit