Our Story


ADP Workforce Management was founded in 2008 during one of the most challenging economic periods in modern history. Our founder, Michael A. Harrington, CFA, CFP, left a senior role at a major Wall Street firm with a clear vision: to create an independent registered investment advisory firm that would always put clients first.

What began as a three-person office on Michigan Avenue has grown into a full-service wealth management practice with over $2 billion in assets under management and a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping more than 500 client families achieve their financial goals.

As an independent RIA, we are free from the conflicts of interest that pervade the brokerage industry. We do not sell proprietary products, earn commissions, or receive compensation from third parties. Our revenue comes solely from transparent, fee-based advisory relationships — ensuring our recommendations are always aligned with your best interests.

Firm at a Glance

  • Founded: 2008
  • Structure: Independent RIA
  • Registration: SEC Registered
  • AUM: $2.1 Billion+
  • Clients: 500+ Families
  • Standard: 100% Fiduciary
  • Fee Model: Fee-Only

Our Fiduciary Commitment


As a registered investment advisor, ADP Workforce Management is held to a fiduciary standard of care — the highest legal duty in the financial industry. This means we are legally and ethically obligated to act in your best interest at all times, not just recommend "suitable" investments.

We believe this distinction matters. It shapes every aspect of how we work: from our fee-only compensation model that eliminates commissions and conflicts, to our open-architecture investment platform that gives us access to the best solutions available, to our transparent reporting that keeps you fully informed about your portfolio and our performance.

Our Advisory Team


Credentialed professionals with decades of combined experience in investment management, financial planning, and tax strategy.

MH

Michael A. Harrington

CFA, CFP®

Founding Partner & Chief Investment Officer. 28 years of experience in portfolio management and institutional investing. Previously VP of Equity Research at Goldman Sachs.

SK

Sarah K. Whitfield

CFP®, CDFA®

Senior Wealth Advisor & Partner. Specializes in retirement income planning and life transition planning. 19 years of financial advisory experience.

DP

David P. Chen

CFA, CPA

Director of Tax Strategy & Planning. Expert in tax-efficient investing, multi-generational wealth transfer, and corporate executive compensation planning.

ER

Elena R. Vasquez

CFP®, CAIA

Portfolio Manager & Advisor. Focuses on alternative investments and ESG-integrated portfolio construction. Previously with Northern Trust Asset Management.

Recognition & Awards


Our commitment to excellence and client service has been recognized by leading financial industry publications and organizations.

  • Barron's Top 100 Independent Advisors — Named to the list for six consecutive years (2020–2025)
  • Financial Times 300 Top Registered Investment Advisors — 2023, 2024, 2025
  • Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors — Illinois, 2022–2025
  • Investment News Excellence in Client Service Award — 2024
  • Your City Tribune Top Workplaces — Financial Services category, 2023

Industry Memberships

National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA)

CFA Institute

Financial Planning Association (FPA)

Investments & Wealth Institute

Awards and recognition are not indicative of future performance and do not represent any client's experience.