Kenneth G. Cala, CPA, M.S., CFP®
Founder, Financial Planner, & Wealth Advisor
Ken Cala's passion for helping individuals and families pursue their financial goals is as strong today as it was more than 25 years ago when he began providing tax, wealth management, and financial planning advice. His combined expertise in these areas allows him to provide clients with a comprehensive perspective when addressing the many interconnected aspects of their financial lives. Ken's approach is rooted in building long-term relationships and working closely with clients to help them achieve their financial goals.
Ken began his accounting career with EY in San Francisco after graduating from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 1989. He later joined Hood & Strong, CPAs, where he specialized in individual taxation and stock option planning.
In 1995, Ken founded his own CPA firm, where he continues to provide tax planning and tax preparation services to individuals and families, many of whom have employee stock and/or stock options. For more than 25 years, Ken has also provided financial planning and wealth management services. He began this work with Lowery Thomas, an investment advisory firm he co-founded in 1999, and later founded KGC Financial Group, LLC. Ken and KGC Financial Group, LLC offer investment advisory services through Independence Square Holdings, LLC, a registered investment adviser.
Ken's professional journey has also been deeply connected to his personal life. While working at EY, he met his wife, Donna. Together, they built their life in the San Francisco Bay Area and raised three children, who now reside on both coasts of the United States.
Ken holds a B.A. in Business Economics/Accounting from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Master's degree in Taxation from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional (CFP®).
Outside of his professional work, Ken enjoys traveling, playing golf, following sports, and spending time with family and friends. He is also committed to giving back to his community through board service. He serves as Treasurer of Alameda Boys & Girls Club and as President of Alameda World Baseball.
Education & Credentials
- B.A., Business Economics/Accounting
- University of California, Santa Barbara
- M.S. Taxation
- Golden Gate University
- Certified Public Accountant
- State of California, since 1991
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®
- Since 2003
- Investment Adviser Representative
- Since 2001
