Our Team

certified financial planner and attorney near Houston Texas

Christopher J. Maurer J.D., CFP®, CLU®

Mr. Maurer has over 25 years of experience creating customized retirement plans for his clients. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), and licensed Texas attorney, he provides a comprehensive approach to each client’s unique needs.

Chris primarily helps retired people and those planning for retirement to not outlive their money. The Texas Bar Association has twice requested that he speak on Social Security and Tax Planning at the Advanced Elder Law Course – an event attended by over 350 Texas estate planning attorneys. Additionally, he has served as an honorary lecturer to the Law Faculty at the South Texas College of Law Houston, engineers at LyondellBassell, and other organizations, on matters of retirement planning and investment planning. At the 2022 CPE by the Sea Conference hosted by Texas Society of CPAs and TXCPA Houston, he will speak on the topic of Social Security for Retirement.

Christopher J. Maurer graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1977 with a B.S. in Economics, with distinction. He received his law degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1981 and also attended the University of Colorado School of Business. At Wisconsin, Chris was a trumpet player and a rank leader in the University of Wisconsin Marching Band. Chris has qualified to be a member of Mensa.

Mr. Maurer practiced law in Colorado from 1983-1987, specializing in the areas of tax and business planning for closely-held businesses and their owners. His work in this area included estate planning, business organizations, employee benefit plans, non-qualified deferred compensation plans, probate, and business transfer.

He was admitted to practice law in Wisconsin, 1981; Colorado, 1983; and Texas, 1991. Chris has two children. He attends St. Michael Catholic Church and has been involved with many community organizations, including youth sports.

Neither Kestra Investment Services, LLC, nor its representatives provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with your tax or legal professional.

Malcolm B. Pfenninger RICP®

Malcolm Pfenninger, CFP®, ChFC®, RICP®, CLU®

Malcolm began his career in the financial services industry in 2006. As a Retirement Income Certified Professional®, Malcolm focuses not only on tax-efficient accumulation of assets, but also on creating sustainable asset withdrawal strategies for retirement. Malcolm is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, which means he has met extensive training and experience requirements.

Malcolm brings a unique perspective to planning, applying his background in risk management which he gained from working as an underwriter before becoming a financial advisor.

A native Houstonian, Malcolm earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Houston Baptist University, where he met his wife, Stephanie. They currently live in Sugar Land, TX with their children, Elora and Rannon.

In the Community:

  • Malcolm and his family attend Cornerstone Community Bible Church in Richmond, TX where they have served in the Children’s ministry for nearly 15 years.
  • On weekends, you can often find Malcolm and his family at track meets or baseball tournaments.
  • In the past, Malcolm has coached his kids’ youth sports teams and served on the board of directors for the Lamar Little League.

Professional Designations and Organizations:

  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
  • Chartered Financial Consultant®
  • Retirement Income Certified Professional®
  • Chartered Life Underwriter®

Karen Johnson, Administrative Assistant

Karen has been a member of the Park Place Financial team since January, 2023.  She joined the staff with many years of experience as an Office Manager, Executive Administrative Assistant, and Accounting Specialist.

Originally from Louisiana, Karen graduated McNeese State University with a BS in Business Administration.  Karen began her professional career in Houston, TX shortly after graduation.

Karen now lives in Sugar Land, TX with her husband, Von. She is blessed to have her adult children and eight grandchildren nearby and visits with them regularly.

Karen and her husband are active in their church serving as home group leaders and on the hospitality team. On weekends, they also enjoy supporting their grandchildren in all their extra-curricular activities.

Charlotte Campbell, Registered Operations Manager

Charlotte is an experienced professional who is passionate about empowering others to achieve financial freedom. Her journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of New Orleans as an act of love, driven by the desire to drive others toward efficient and effective financial management.

As Operations Manager, she brings a unique perspective.  Charlotte is fully committed to operational excellence and client satisfaction.  As someone who believes in doing common things uncommonly well, she makes herself available for all your service needs.

Areas of Expertise:

Operational Efficiency: Streamlines processes to enhance client experiences.

Client Service: Client needs are her top priority: She is dedicated to serving your needs.

Financial Management:  Her background equips her to handle diverse financial challenges.

Whether you are navigating complex transactions or seeking seamless onboarding, Charlotte is here to make your experience exceptional.

Charlotte enjoys eating delicious food at fine restaurants and experimenting with new dishes. She loves walking and spending time with her family.