Celia Peterson
Chief Operating Officer & Chief Strategy Officer
Celia brings more than 20 years of executive experience in alternative investments and wealth management. Her background includes building and scaling investment firms serving institutional and high-net-worth clients, and working with advisors across broker-dealer and RIA channels. She has led all non-investment functions, including operations, client service, compliance, and business development.
Celia served as Chief Operating Officer for a $2B+ multi-manager hedge fund firm in New York City. She later relocated to Connecticut to help build out and lead Aetna Capital Management, an alternative investment firm owned by Aetna Inc. As Chief Operating Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, and Head of Client Service and Business Development, she was responsible for leading daily operations, product development, regulatory oversight, and distribution strategy, with a strong focus on advisor and client engagement. She subsequently held leadership roles on the corporate side of the business, with responsibilities spanning capital investments, transformation, strategic programs, member experience, and ESG.
Today, at Gottfried & Somberg Wealth Management, Celia plays a central role in guiding the firm’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations. She brings her experience building investment firms, overseeing client service, and leading complex organizations to support the firm’s continued growth and evolution. Working closely with the team, she focuses on strengthening operational infrastructure, enhancing the client experience, and ensuring that the firm continues to deliver the personal, responsive service clients expect. Her leadership is focused on ensuring the firm remains well-positioned to meet the needs of clients today and in the years ahead.
Celia and her husband Derek live in West Simsbury, Connecticut. They have three daughters, Daphne, Amelia, and Maggie, and two dogs, Ivy and Delilah. These days, the girls are coming and going, so you never know if the house will be calm or full of energy when you walk in.