Wealth management firm creates custom plans
An interview with Michael Leonetti, owner of Buffalo Grove-based Leonetti & Associates LLC.
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: We are a wealth management firm that provides financial planning and investment management services customized for each client.
Q: What made you start your business?
A: My desire to offer a holistic approach to clients on a fee-only basis. To be an adviser to clients without the conflict of selling products to them for a commission.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: There is no one overall difficult obstacle. Being a small business, every day brings new challenges. Constantly adjusting to varying economic and regulatory climates is a consistent challenge.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: All the different wonderful people I get to meet and work with. Whether they be clients, employees, or my peers. They all keep my work life fun and interesting.
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young?
A: When I was little I always thought I’d be a defense lawyer. I wanted to work with people and help them solve their problems. This career has fit the bill.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: My allergies usually. They’re terrible! Occasionally pondering a business issue or question will keep me up. Sometimes it’s hard to turn off my mind once it gets going.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: Have a plan and hire great people.
— Kim Mikus
Ÿ We cover a small suburban business every Monday and would like to hear about yours. Contact Kim Mikus at kmikus@dailyherald.com.
Leonetti & Associates LLC 
Address: 1130 Lake Cook Road, Suite 300, Buffalo Grove, IL
Owner: Michael Leonetti
Year business started: 1982
Web address: www.leonettiassoc.com