Michelle Lester

Michelle spent the first seven years of her career as a Certified Public Accountant with Ernst & Young, LLP. In the years following, she consulted with small businesses and worked extensively with non-profit entities before transitioning into the financial services industry.

Drawing on her experience as a former CPA, Michelle brings a tax-conscious perspective to financial planning and helps clients understand how financial decisions fit into their broader goals. She works with individuals and families who have accumulated savings and want help organizing their finances into a comprehensive strategy.

Inspired by her family's background in education, she believes everyone deserves access to understandable financial guidance and the opportunity to make informed decisions. Her focus is helping clients to plan for what's important to them through a disciplined approach to financial planning, and then connecting the right resources to match their needs.

As a trained mediator, Michelle helps clients navigate complex family discussions and planning decisions with care and objectivity. She has a special passion for serving widows and divorcees who are seeking greater financial independence and confidence.

Clients often describe Michelle as one who brings a sense of calm to complex conversations, who is approachable, and thoughtful. Her goal is to help clients articulate what matters most, create a clear path forward, and pursue financial decisions that support their desired lifestyle and long-term goals.

In her role as Director of Business Strategies for FIDIR Financial Group, Michelle coordinates many of the strategic initiatives for the team. 

Michelle is an alumnus of the State University of New York at Oswego. She’s a dedicated volunteer for several organizations and enjoys pretty much any activity that gets her outside, especially with her adult children, Sarah & Jack. In fact, her son inspired her obsession with golf and her daughter got her back on the ski slopes after a long hiatus. Michelle loves to spend time with family & friends, traveling, and trying new things.