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Tom Gooley's Retirement: A Legacy of Leadership at Cetera

Tom Gooley, the Chief Operating Officer of Cetera Financial Group, has declared his plan to retire following a meticulously planned transition. This announcement, made on January 7, 2026, encapsulates the conclusion of an impressive chapter in Gooley’s career, one that has significantly influenced the financial services landscape.

Beginning his journey at Cetera in October 2020, Gooley took on the responsibility of overseeing service, technology, trading, and operations during a pivotal time of growth for the company. His strategy reflected a commitment to cultivating a customer-centric organization that promised consistent outcomes for both advisors and their clients. Under his guidance, Cetera has seen remarkable advancements such as the rollout of a multi-custodial platform and the integration of services from Fidelity’s NFS Clearing. Furthermore, his efforts in orchestrating major corporate acquisitions have fortified the company's position within the industry.

In framing the context of Gooley’s retirement, he has underscored the importance of continuity during times of change. His decision to remain through the first quarter of 2026 is aimed at ensuring a seamless transition and stability for the organization, particularly with ongoing initiatives like the Avantax conversion. Mike Durbin, CEO of Cetera Financial Group, highlighted Gooley’s invaluable leadership. He stated, “Tom agreed to stay through a critical period of transitions and growth to ensure consistency of service and stability for operations for our advisors, partners, and internal teams.”

Gooley’s journey is defined by a series of strategic initiatives aimed at empowering fellow financial professionals within the Cetera network. His tenure has not only enhanced operational prowess but also nurtured an inclusive environment conducive to trust and collaboration. In reflecting on his impact, Gooley expressed pride in the successes achieved through teamwork, saying, “We’ve strengthened the foundation of the organization where empowering people and having a sense of shared ownership is what fuels high performance.”

As Cetera looks forward, the company has identified a seasoned leader to take over Gooley's responsibilities. This successor will be introduced shortly, ensuring a smooth collaboration with Gooley during the onboarding process. The change in leadership signifies not only the end of Gooley’s impactful era but also an exciting gateway into a future where Cetera aims to leverage its extensive scale to provide tailored support to financial professionals across various firms.

Cetera Financial Group stands out in the financial advisory landscape as a premier Wealth Hub. It is committed to providing independent advisors and institutions with flexible model options, personalized support, and comprehensive growth solutions. With a vast network comprising nearly 12,000 advisors, Cetera remains focused on adapting to the evolving needs of its financial professionals, ensuring their success in a competitive market.

Looking Ahead

Cetera’s multi-channel ecosystem is designed to empower firm growth and transformation on individual terms, promoting agility and sustainability in a constantly evolving industry. As Gooley transitions away from his role, his legacy of leadership will undoubtedly pave the way for continued success at Cetera, setting new benchmarks for the future of financial advisory services.

To learn more about the exciting changes at Cetera Financial Group, visit their official website or follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, and other social platforms.