Mark D. Olson

Founder & Principal | CFP®, MSFS, AIF®, CLU®, ChFC®

Helping clients find financial clarity, confidence, and a path toward a work-optional life.
Email:mark@horizonwealthstrategies.com
Expertise

Since 1989, Mark has been helping clients find financial peace of mind through his work as their financial coach and advocate. He believes every client has a unique situation and deserves a customized financial strategy to achieve their goals and live the life they envisioned.

Mark specializes in working with corporate technology executives and other professionals. He particularly enjoys helping individuals who are approaching or entering a work-optional phase of life understand what is possible and how to approach it with clarity.

Mark holds a Bachelor of Science from Rutgers University and has completed advanced education and professional designations, including:

  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®)
  • Master of Science in Financial Services (MSFS), The American College
  • Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®)
  • Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®)
  • Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®)

These designations reflect advanced training in financial planning, fiduciary responsibility, investment due diligence, and holistic client advisory work.

How Mark Thinks About Financial Planning

Mark’s philosophy is reflected in the name and identity of Horizon Wealth Strategies.

“Our goals are always out in front of us, like the horizon. As we move toward them and achieve them, new goals take their place. The destination continues to evolve.”

This perspective shapes how Mark works with clients. Financial planning is not about reaching a fixed endpoint. It is about creating a structure that adapts as life changes, priorities shift, and new opportunities emerge.

Industry Leadership

Mark is actively involved in leadership roles within the financial services industry.

He is a 27-year member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT®), including:

  • 15 Court of the Table honors
  • 6 Top of the Table honors

His current and past leadership roles include:

  • Member, Top of the Table Committee
  • Chair, Top of the Table Engagement Committee
  • MDRT U.S. Community Leaders
  • MDRT Foundation Network Committee
  • MDRT Foundation Large Donor Committee
  • Trustee, MDRT Foundation Board of Directors
  • Chair, Court of the Table Committee (2024–2025)

Additional affiliations:

  • President, Austin Chapter of NAIFA®
  • Past President, Austin Chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals (SFSP)
  • Former NAIFA-NJ State President (2010–2011)
  • Member, Financial Planning Association (FPA®)

Outside the Office

Mark lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Nana and their dogs, Aimee and Lulu.

Outside of work, he enjoys golf, skiing, travel, singing in the St. Martin’s Lutheran Church choir, and spending time with his family.

Start a Conversation

Mark works closely with clients who want a thoughtful, structured approach to financial planning, especially those approaching or entering a work-optional phase of life.

If you are looking for a financial partner who focuses on clarity, long-term strategy, and coordinated decision-making, you can start with a conversation.

Let's Talk Retirement

WIth an Experienced Financial Planner