Theodore (TJ) Zak is a Founder and Managing Director of Trillium Wealth. TJ brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his clients. His career trajectory changed after a significant injury in high school, which redirected his focus from sports to education and finance. He prides himself on building strong relationships with clients, helping them achieve their financial objectives, and working with a dedicated team that always puts clients first. His personal mission statement, “The attitude within is more important than the circumstances without,” reflects his approach to both life and work.
TJ’s passion for helping clients is matched by his dedication to education. He teaches “Principles of Investing” at the University of Delaware’s Osher Academy of Lifelong Learning. Among his professional achievements, TJ’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his consistent recognition as a Premier Advisor*, and his appearance on the Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors** list from 2019-2024. TJ is committed to mentoring the next generation of advisors at Trillium Wealth, ensuring the firm’s continued success and growth.
Education and Credentials:
- Bachelor of Arts in History, University of Delaware
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)
- Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®)
- Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors (2019-2024)
- Wells Fargo Advisors Premier Advisor (2013-2023)
Personal Life and Interests:
- Born in Waynesboro, VA, and raised in Dover, DE, TJ and his wife Aubrey now live in Kennett Square. They have two daughters, Bella and Gianna
- Family enjoys beach outings, travel, hiking, movies, and board games
- Avid Philadelphia sports fan and long-time Eagles season ticket holder
- Enjoys golf, travel, and spending time at their beach house in Bethany Beach, DE
- Memorable experience: Attending Superbowl 52 with his father, an Eagles win
*In recognition of his achievements, TJ held the Wells Fargo Platinum Council distinction from 2013-2023. The Platinum Council (previously known as Premier Advisor) distinction is held by a select group of Wells Fargo Financial Advisors as measured by completion of educational components, business production based on the previous year and professionalism. The title is awarded each March, based on activity for the prior January 1 – December 31st period. Additional criteria, adherence to best practices and team structure were also used to determine recipients.
** The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating was presented in April 2024 using data gathered from June 2022 to June 2023 by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a rating. It uses a rating algorithm that is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 – 6/30/22 (Source: Forbes.com). 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2022; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/20 – 6/30/21 (Source: Forbes.com). 2021 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2021; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/19 – 6/30/20 (Source: Forbes.com). 2020 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded January 2020; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/18 – 6/30/19 (Source: Forbes.com). 2019 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2019; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/17 – 6/30/18 (Source: Forbes.com).
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