founders
Christine Cox-West
Christine Cox-West began her career in financial services in 2011. Within a short time, Christine recognized that protecting her clients’ incomes was the most important thing for anyone in the accumulation phase of their life. After working specifically in the physician market, Christine became a disability specialist for one of the largest disability carriers in the nation. Helping not only the clients, but also hundreds of other advisors find the right solutions for their clients, Christine gained immense passion and experience in the disability insurance marketplace. Christine is the past NJ Chapter President of Women in Insurance and Financial Services (WIFS). She also sits on the board of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce among many Fortune 500 Executives as well as chairing their Women in Business Program. In 2019 Christine was named NJBiz Top 40 Under 40. Christine is a wife to husband, David, and mother to Alexa, Jack, Axel and Brooks.
Michael DeVizio
Michael entered the financial services industry in 2012 with a long-term vision of building a comprehensive, client-centric practice focused on both wealth preservation and strategic growth. His approach emphasizes thoughtful planning, disciplined execution, and a deep understanding of each client’s personal and professional objectives. He advises successful professionals, families, and high-net-worth individuals, delivering highly customized financial strategies designed to evolve alongside life and career milestones. Michael views financial planning as an architectural process—carefully structuring and refining each client’s financial framework to support stability, flexibility, and long-term success. Michael has developed a specialized focus within the legal community, working closely with attorneys to address the unique financial challenges that accompany demanding careers. By simplifying complex planning decisions, he enables his clients to focus on their practice with confidence and clarity. Michael is a graduate of Ramapo College of New Jersey and brings both academic grounding and real-world experience to his work. Outside of his professional role, he is a devoted husband and father who places a strong emphasis on family and legacy. He values the role family plays in shaping both personal and financial decisions. He is also an avid sports enthusiast, with lifelong passions for the New York Yankees, New York Giants, Seton Hall Pirates basketball, Alabama football, and Liverpool soccer.
Michael Manginelli
Michael is a former student of Ramapo College of New Jersey and current resident of Monmouth County. Throughout his time at Ramapo, he was a member of the national fraternity Zeta Beta Tau. He enjoys participating in sports and outdoor activities, playing golf, coaching, giving back to charities such as the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and most of all, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He is a mentor for Monmouth University students under the SEEMA Mentorship Program which aims to provide growth and development in their post-collegiate careers. Michael spent 6 years in management developing his team into a top sales team in the company. By co-founding The Fortis Agency, Michael has the opportunity to work with all levels of experience and focuses on taking advisors to new heights in their career. He also was a top advisor working primarily with successful business owners and Medical Professionals and continues to do so at a high level. He values family, integrity, trust, loyalty, having fun, strong work ethic, independence and freedom and is committed to aligning himself with like-minded people everyday. Fun facts: Left-handed. 6 siblings. Wine Enthusiast. Huge Yankees and Dallas Cowboys fan.
David West
David West began his career in financial services in 2011. In his early career he was named the New Agent of the year for his firm. Dave specializes in helping physicians, executives and business owners protect and grow their wealth. Dave uses unique planning strategies and partners with CPA’s and Pension Specialists to bring immense tax efficiencies to clients’ financial plans. Dave graduated from SUNY Albany as the only 2 sport All-Conference athlete in their history, playing football and baseball. Needless to say his numerous sports injuries gave him much respect for all of the surgeons and physicians that helped him along the way!
Team
Micaela Colabella
agency advisor
Tommy DeVizio
agency advisor
Alfonso Guerriero
executive admin
office manager
Chris Kenneally Jr
Advisor
Steve Kuchinski
advisor
Cayla Manginelli
executive admin
Matt Simon, CFP®
Certified financial planner
Frank Vicendese
Advisor
James Zahakos
advisor
Learn More About our Wealth Management Team
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About us
Our partners met at a previous firm in 2012. After successful careers, they decided to create a firm to better serve clients and advisors. Fortis means “strong”. The Fortis Agency delivers strong financial strategies to clients and advisors.
Our mission
Our partners found The Fortis Agency with a two-fold mission. First, is to bring the highest quality financial products and strategies to our clients. Second, is to empower financial advisors and brokers around the country to do the same. Our goal is to do good with good people.