Our Team
Our Team
James Novakovich
James Novakovich
Co-Founder & Wealth Advisor
Co-Founder & Wealth Advisor
James Novakovich brings nearly 25 years of hands-on experience in wealth management, financial planning, and investment strategy to his role as Co-Founder of Nova Wealth Management. But it’s his journey—and how it transformed his outlook on client relationships—that truly defines his approach.
Starting his career in institutional banking, James built and led an advisory team in Florida at Fifth Third Securities. But after navigating clients through the turbulence of the 2008 financial crisis, James recognized a troubling disconnect: large firms were more focused on selling products and chasing new business than protecting clients’ long-term well-being.
That experience became the catalyst for Nova Wealth Management. In 2011, James and his wife, Amy, launched Nova to offer something fundamentally different—a client-first, boutique firm with in-house asset management, a deep fiduciary commitment, and an environment where every client and their family is known personally. Rather than fitting clients into cookie-cutter portfolios or outsourcing planning to anonymous third-party managers, Nova’s team builds customized strategies in-house—thoughtfully integrating tax mitigation, risk management, and transparent communication.
James’s approach is shaped by both decades in finance and real-world life experience. After surviving a major health event in 2023, he brings new appreciation for risk prevention, thoughtful legacy planning, and ensuring families are protected—values that guide every client meeting. Clients and colleagues alike cite his candor, caring practical advice, and unpretentious communication style. James views wealth management as a lifelong partnership—helping clients plan not just for market returns, but for their family’s future, evolving goals, and peace of mind.
Outside the office, James enjoys family time in Bonita Springs with Amy and their five children, rooting for his beloved Cleveland sports teams, exploring music, and—even if he claims otherwise—finding new ways to have fun with his kids.
Disclosures:
Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investment strategies involve risks, and individual situations vary. Nova Wealth Management operates as a fiduciary in clients’ best interests; please review our ADV and disclosures for details.
Credentials & Recognition
Credentials & Recognition
Why Clients Choose James
Why Clients Choose James
Decades of Fiduciary Perspective
With nearly 25 years in wealth management, James transitioned from institutional banking to co-found Nova, creating an independent, fee-based firm where clients are never treated like an account number.
In-House Strategic Asset Management
Rather than outsourcing portfolios to anonymous third parties, James builds customized wealth strategies in-house, carefully blending tax mitigation, risk management, and market defense.
Real-World Risk & Legacy Planning
Shaped by both market cycles and personal life experiences, James brings an unpretentious, highly pragmatic approach to protecting family wealth, business exits, and multi-generational legacies.
insights from James at nova wealth management
insights from James at nova wealth management
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Start the conversation
Start the conversation
No matter where you are on your financial journey, our team is here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced advisors. We’d love to get to know you, understand your goals, and share how our team can help you achieve financial peace of mind.
Take the First Step
Retiring without children? Your financial plan may need a few extra considerations.
Retirement planning isn`t just about how much you`ve saved.
It`s also about preparing for the unexpected.
💰 Who will help manage your finances if needed?
🏥 Who will make healthcare decisions on your behalf?
📋 Are your estate documents current?
🔐 What safeguards are in place against financial fraud?
❤️ Who or what organizations would you like to benefit from your estate?
For solo retirees, these questions can be especially important.
At Nova Wealth Management, we help clients consider the many pieces of a comprehensive retirement plan.
📖 Read our latest blog through the link in our bio.
#SoloRetirement #RetirementPlanning #FinancialIndependence #EstatePlanning #RetirementIncome #BonitaSprings #NaplesFlorida
Nov 12
Your service matters. So does your financial future.
For veterans and military families, retirement planning may involve benefits and considerations that differ from those of other households.
From VA disability compensation and healthcare benefits to military retirement pay and survivor benefits, understanding how these resources fit together can make a meaningful difference.
💙 At Nova Wealth Management, we`re proud to support our veterans and their families.
And we`re especially proud that our team includes a veteran—wealth advisor and CPA Scott Nelson.
Our latest blog explores how veterans benefits can be incorporated into a broader financial strategy.
📖 Read more through the link in our bio.
Thank you for your service!
#VeteransBenefits #MilitaryFamilies #VeteransFinancialPlanning #FinancialEducation #RetirementPlanning #BonitaSprings #NaplesFlorida #NovaWealthManagement
Nov 11
Home of the Free, Because of the Brave. ❤️🤍💙
Today, we honor the courage, commitment, and sacrifices of the men and women who have served our nation.
At Nova Wealth Management, we`re proud to support our veterans and military families.
And today, we`re giving a special shoutout to one of our own! 👏🇺🇸
Scott Nelson, our Wealth Advisor and CPA, is also a veteran!
Scott, thank you for your service and for being part of Team Nova! 💙💛
To every veteran—thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your dedication to our country.
Happy Veterans Day!
#VeteransDay #ThankYouForYourService #HonorOurVeterans #VeteranPride #MilitaryFamilies #TeamNova #NovaWealthManagement #SupportOurTroops #Veterans
Nov 11
