Who we are

CARY STREET PARTNERS

Cary Street Partners is a leading independent financial services firm offering comprehensive wealth management services including investments, planning and financial advice. Cary Street Partners financial advisors serve individuals, families, and institutions with customized strategies tailored to fit each client's objectives.

JACOB L. DOWNING, CFA, CFP®

JACOB L. DOWNING, CFA, CFP®

FINANCIAL ADVISOR, MANAGING DIRECTOR

As a Chartered Financial Analyst® charterholder and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Jake uses his nearly 20 years of knowledge and experience to guide families toward financial confidence. He is committed to giving clients clarity and peace of mind using a comprehensive approach that includes investment strategies, financial and estate planning, and tax optimization.


Experience:

  • Exencial Wealth Advisors, Wealth Advisor
  • Dimensional Fund Advisors, Senior Associate
  • Fidelity Investments, Financial Consultant


Education/Certifications:

  • Miami University, BS, Business
  • Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA) charter holder
  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional

Email
jacob.downing@carystreetpartners.com
Phone
704.557.0471
SEAN M. KAYES, CFP®

SEAN M. KAYES, CFP®

FINANCIAL ADVISOR, VICE PRESIDENT

Sean brings years of experience in the financial services industry to empower individuals and families to pursue their financial goals with clarity and confidence. He tailors strategies to each client’s unique situation, offering personalized advice on short- and long-term investing, saving for education, planning for retirement, and more. Through his client-centered approach, Sean works closely with clients to provide guidance through various life stages and transitions.


Experience:

  • Exencial Wealth Advisors, Senior Wealth Consultant
  • Willingdon Wealth Management, Business Development Officer


Education/Certifications:

  • East Carolina University, BS, Business Administration
  • Series 65
  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional

Email
sean.kayes@carystreetpartners.com
Phone
704.817.1202
MICHAEL KAYES, CFA

MICHAEL KAYES, CFA

SENIOR ADVISOR

As a CFA® charterholder, Mike uses his four decades of experience in wealth management to guide business owners and key executives as they transition into retirement, by providing a unique perspective on determining the optimal balance between risk management, income generation, and long-term growth potential.  


Experience:

  • Willingdon Wealth Management, Inc., Founder, President and Chief Investment Officer
  • Eastover Capital Management


Education/Certifications:

  • University of Michigan, Ross School of Business, MBA
  • St. Bonaventure University, BBA, Business Administration
  • Chartered Financial Analyst® designation

Email
mike.kayes@carystreetpartners.com
Phone
704.837.2053
VICTORIA R. HAAS

VICTORIA R. HAAS

SENIOR CLIENT RELATIONSHIP MANAGER, VICE PRESIDENT

With over 30 years in the financial services industry, Viki strives to build strong relationships with each client by proactively meeting their needs and providing exceptional support. She is dedicated to giving clients a seamless experience during onboarding and beyond.

 

Experience:

  • Exencial Wealth Advisors, Relationship Manager
  • Willingdon Wealth Management, Client Services Manager
  • Hearst Corporation, Director of Advertising Credit


Education/Certifications:

  • Elon University, BS, Business

Email
viki.haas@carystreetpartners.com
Phone
704.512.0156