AAF Wealth Management Expands Advisory Team
Boston, MA (May 26, 2025)—AAF Wealth Management, a boutique Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm serving clients focused on long-term wealth preservation, today announced the addition of two new team members, Michael Shook and Russell Almstrom, CRPC®. Both Michael and Russel bring expertise in client service, investment operations, and financial planning, enhancing our commitment to providing holistic, tax-efficient personal financial planning solutions.
“By welcoming these talented professionals, we are strengthening our capacity to support the organic growth of a discerning client base, including legacy-minded families, successful individuals, and private clients with intricate financial needs, all seeking strategic and personalized financial guidance,” explained Andy Hammond, CFP®, wealth advisor and co-managing partner at AAF Wealth Management.
Michael joined AAF Wealth Management as Assistant Operations Specialist, where he supports smooth, efficient financial operations. His responsibilities include daily transaction execution, account maintenance, and internal process oversight—enabling advisors to focus on holistic, personal financial planning.
Michael has held service and leadership roles in the wealth management field, bringing experience across client service, investment operations, and financial planning. He earned a B.S. in Business Administration with concentrations in finance and management from the University at Albany. Outside of work, Michael enjoys hiking, fishing, and staying active. He is also a past volunteer with Big Brother Big Sister of New Hampshire, where he dedicated time to mentorship and community engagement.
Michael Shook
Russell Almstrom
Russell joined AAF Wealth Management as an associate wealth advisor, where he supports the firm’s senior wealth advisors in delivering comprehensive, client-centered financial planning. He plays a key role in helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of personal finance, retirement planning, and long-term wealth building.
Driven by an interest in personal finance, Russell is dedicated to helping clients gain clarity and confidence as they plan for the future. He holds Series 7 and 66 licenses and the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®) designation along with a B.S. in Business Administration and Management from Southern New Hampshire University. Outside of work, Russell enjoys time outdoors with his wife and children, traveling, and regularly participating in Tough Ruck, a marathon ruck march that supports families of fallen military and first responders.
“Our clients value insight, discretion, and a relationship built on trust,” added Andy. “Both Michael and Russell share in our commitment to delivering sophisticated guidance and personalized strategies that help clients preserve and grow their wealth with confidence.”
Meet the Full Wealth Management Opps Team
Russell and Michael join a dedicated team that supports both the strategic and operational sides of client service. From executing transactions to coordinating long-term planning, our team works behind the scenes to ensure clients experience consistent, high-quality support.
Cheryl Melendy, Client Service and Operations Manager. Cheryl oversees client service operations, creating efficient processes and delivering high-touch support from onboarding through ongoing relationship management.
Chris McCall, Assistant Operations Specialist. Chris supports operational workflows and cross-team coordination, helping ensure wealth planning aligns seamlessly with tax strategy and compliance.
Emily Levine, Senior Investment Manager. Emily oversees trading, reporting, and investment systems, contributing to portfolio alignment, compliance, and firmwide operational efficiency.
This group works in close collaboration with advisors to ensure operational excellence across every client interaction.