Julie Grace is a Managing Partner with 25 years of industry experience. She is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals and finds great satisfaction in seeing them reach important milestones, whether funding a college education, purchasing a dream home, or retiring comfortably.

Julie enjoys the ever-changing nature of the financial industry and values the opportunity to continuously learn, navigate market conditions, and solve complex challenges on behalf of her clients. Her career began in an operational support role as a sales assistant, providing her with a strong foundation and a well-rounded understanding of the client experience. Known for her thoughtful approach and commitment to client service, Julie works closely with clients to help them feel confident and informed throughout their financial journey.

Outside of work, she enjoys staying active through exercise, taking walks with her dog, and spending quality time with her family.

John Thunholm is a seasoned financial professional with a distinguished career in wealth management, now serving as Managing Partner after building a long track record as Senior Vice President – Investments. In his role as Managing Partner, John is committed to leadership, mentorship, and delivering a high standard of client service grounded in integrity and long-term relationships. He has extensive experience guiding individuals, multi-generational families, and their businesses, and is recognized for his disciplined approach, deep market knowledge, and unwavering commitment to helping clients achieve their long-term financial goals.

John has spent his career working with a select group of families to help them build, manage, preserve, and transition wealth across generations. Many of his client relationships extend to second and third generations, reflecting the trust and continuity he has established over time. His areas of focus include retirement planning, investment management, estate planning strategies, tax-efficient investing, charitable giving, and education funding.

What John values most about his work is the ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of his clients and their families. He finds the greatest satisfaction in helping clients navigate complex financial decisions while staying focused on their long-term goals, concerns, and aspirations. His favorite part of the job is collaborating closely with families to develop thoughtful, personalized strategies that align with their values and vision for the future.

John has been fortunate to share in many important milestones with his clients throughout his career. As a father of three children, including one with special needs, he brings both personal perspective and professional insight to his work, understanding firsthand the importance of careful planning and preparation.

Outside of the office, John enjoys spending time with his wife, Erin, and their three children at their home in Northbrook, Illinois. He also enjoys cooking, grilling, reading, music, sports, and is an avid baseball enthusiast who has been actively involved as a coach, parent, and participant over the years.

With more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, Joe is dedicated to helping individuals and families build, manage, and preserve their wealth through personalized financial guidance and disciplined investment strategies. As a Managing Director, Joe works closely with clients to develop customized plans designed to address their unique goals, providing clarity and confidence through every stage of life.

Joe's approach is rooted in long-term relationships and trust. He believes that wealth planning is about more than investments, it's about understanding what matters most to each client and serving as a trusted advisor through important life decisions and transitions. His ability to simplify complex financial matters and create actionable strategies has helped clients navigate changing markets and pursue lasting financial success.

Joe earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Marquette University. Before forming Council Private Wealth Management, Joe served as Senior Vice President – Investments with Wells Fargo Advisors, where he spent more than 17 years providing comprehensive wealth management services. Prior to that, he was First Vice President – Investments with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, building lasting client relationships and guiding investors through multiple market cycles. He began his professional career with Xerox Corporation, where he developed the client service and relationship-building skills that continue to define his practice today.

Outside of work, Joe enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and pursuing his passion for music as a guitarist.

Brian J. Terry has more than 38 years of experience in the financial services industry and is dedicated to helping clients turn their biggest life goals into reality. He enjoys simplifying complex market data and economic trends into clear, actionable strategies that help clients feel confident about their financial future.

After graduating from college, Brian began his career with PaineWebber in 1990, which was later acquired by UBS and in 2015, he joined Wells Fargo Advisors. In 2026, Brian co-founded Council Private Wealth Management where he continues to provide personalized financial guidance and support to clients.

Outside of work, Brian enjoys golfing, boating, and gardening. He previously served as Commodore of the Abbey Yacht Club and enjoys spending time on the water whenever possible.

Richard Moras, CFP®, is a Managing Partner with 20 years of experience helping clients navigate their financial lives with clarity and confidence. He is passionate about simplifying complex financial and economic information into practical guidance tailored to each client’s needs. Richard especially enjoys finding thoughtful, effective solutions that help clients pursue their goals.

Before entering the financial services industry, Richard worked as an engineer and later moved into corporate management. After earning his MBA, he chose to pursue a career in economics and investing. He also served as an elected official in his hometown and was Finance Committee Chair for 12 years.

Outside of work, Richard serves on an advisory board for the Northwestern Memorial Foundation in support of the Digestive Health Institute. He enjoys live music with his wife, Michele, along with cooking, woodworking, and repairing just about anything worth fixing.

Amber Montpas is a Senior Client Associate with more than 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. She is passionate about helping clients navigate important financial decisions while providing thoughtful, personalized support and service.

Amber began her career on the operations side of the industry as a Business Service Associate, where she developed a strong understanding of account processes and back-office operations. After becoming registered, she transitioned into a client-facing role, allowing her to combine operational expertise with a commitment to delivering exceptional service and building lasting client relationships.

What Amber enjoys most about her work is helping clients navigate their financial needs while building genuine relationships based on trust and understanding. She takes pride in getting to know clients on a personal level, allowing her to provide thoughtful guidance and support tailored to their unique goals and priorities.

Outside of work, Amber enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is married and has a daughter who is a competitive figure skater, and she loves supporting her daughter's passion for the sport. In her free time, Amber enjoys crafting and other creative pursuits that allow her to relax and express her creativity.

Carrie Sitko is a Senior Client Associate with nearly three decades of experience in the financial services industry. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for delivering exceptional client service, maintaining efficient operations, and supporting advisors in providing a seamless client experience.

With more than 45 years of customer service experience, including nearly three decades in the financial services industry, Carrie is known for her dedication to helping clients and supporting her team. Her extensive industry knowledge and commitment to exceptional service make her a valued resource for both clients and colleagues.

As a Senior Client Associate, Carrie enjoys working closely with advisors and team members to help ensure day-to-day operations run smoothly. She takes pride in creating efficient processes, assisting clients with their needs, and helping foster a positive experience for everyone she serves.

Outside of the office, Carrie enjoys camping, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Whether exploring new destinations or enjoying the outdoors, she values creating lasting memories and sharing plenty of laughter along the way.