Former Atlanta Falcon turned financial advisor, Derek Rackley, brings the same drive that powered his football career to his role at GER Loftin Wealth Advisors in Johns Creek. As the firm’s head of business development and a licensed financial services professional, Rackley helps clients create financial health for greater peace of mind. “Money matters can create a lot of anxiety for people,” he says. “We work hard to alleviate financial concerns for our clients and give them confidence in their financial future.”
Rackley advocates for the “SWAN” approach, which is short for Sleep Well at Night, emphasizing how proper planning allays financial concerns that can keep people up at night. One of the keys, he says, is starting with a plan. “It may sound overly simple, but many people don’t have a full financial plan,” he says. “It’s not enough to have a 401(k) and Social Security. You need to have a personalized plan that takes into account the full picture — your goals, resources, debt, investments, taxes. The plan needs to be implemented, monitored and adjusted as things change.”
Merging Strategy with Service
One of Rackley’s responsibilities at GER Loftin is forming strategic relationships with professionals in insurance, accounting and estate planning so that he can connect his firm’s clients with the right resources when needed. Rackley also plays a key role in his firm’s community outreach and education, delivering six-hour financial literacy and retirement planning seminars at local colleges. “These topics aren’t taught in most schools, yet people are expected to know them,” he says. “We’re passionate about giving back to the community by educating people on personal finance and talking with students who may have an interest in pursuing the financial field.”
Rackley’s work in finance is bolstered by his experience as an entrepreneur. Alongside his wife, he co-owns a boutique gym called AMRACK Fitness in Buford, where he learned firsthand about launching a business, scaling operations, managing cash flow and balancing work-life demands. Those lessons broaden the perspective he brings to financial advising. “I understand the pressures of running a business and know what’s involved in mapping out a sustainable financial plan,” he says.
Building Relationships Through the Chairman’s Club
A newer member of the Chairman’s Club, Rackley credits the group for accelerating his networking efforts. “This is an incredible forum where you speak directly with high-level executives and business owners who are well connected throughout Gwinnett,” he says. “The events are enjoyable and purposeful — people come ready to talk business. I’ve been impressed by everyone’s willingness to be open and share insights.”
Since moving to Gwinnett County in 2000 to play for the Atlanta Falcons, Rackley has watched the region grow into a thriving hub for business and community life. While he stays connected to the sports world through broadcasting work, his primary focus is on helping individuals, families and businesses across Gwinnett achieve their financial goals. “Gwinnett is an ideal place to build a business and raise a family. Everything you need — from infrastructure and jobs to fine dining and entertainment — is right here in the county,” he adds.