Carly Fagan Barton , CEPA®, JD

Carly is a Partner and Head of Client Strategy where she oversees strategy and initiatives to drive disciplined organic growth across the Firm. She is based in our Pittsburgh office.

Carly calls on over 20 years of experience serving as a trusted strategic advisor to individuals and families who have built significant wealth, with deep experience serving entrepreneurs, professionals and executives navigating complex financial lives — including equity compensation, concentrated stock positions, and the planning that surrounds a business sale or liquidity event. Understanding the importance of both preserving and growing assets, she takes the time to understand what matters most to each family, then works in close coordination with their broader advisory team — CPAs, attorneys, and other trusted advisors. Together, they design sophisticated, customized investment and tax strategies, along with estate and succession plans, that are intended to reduce cost and taxes so clients can keep what they make. Carly has a knack for spotting the decisions that matter well before they become urgent, so clients feel prepared for a transition rather than caught off guard by one. She is especially passionate about helping families transition wealth to the next generation in a way that reflects their values, not just their balance sheet and brings the same care to philanthropic planning, cash management, and credit strategies tailored to each client’s life.

That same experience has shaped Carly into a senior growth executive, designing and implementing disciplined, scalable business development frameworks that deliver historically measurable results while upholding the highest standards of client service.

Prior to joining Cerity Partners, Carly held senior positions at National Private Banks where she was responsible for leading client strategy, advisor development, and organic growth initiatives. Earlier in her career, she practiced law, providing her with a strong legal foundation that continues to inform her work.

Carly is passionate about supporting causes that provide resources to women and children in need both locally and nationally. She lives in a suburb of Pittsburgh with her husband, three sons and two collies. Outside of work, Carly enjoys reading, all things art, staying active, traveling, and spending time with her family.