Ryan Oates

Managing Partner and Co-Founder
540-450-8351

I'm Ryan, Managing Partner and co-founder of Water Street Financial. I’m passionate about empowering high-net-worth clients to work toward their financial goals with confidence. My education, including an MBA from Shenandoah University and a BA in Finance from George Mason University, underpins the strategic expertise I offer. My commitment to truly understanding each client's goals drives me to craft personalized financial plans. Building that confidence and navigating complex financial landscapes – that's where my expertise shines.

Outside of work, I recharge by spending time with my family, enjoying the challenge of golf, and exploring new places. My travels have recently taken me to Scotland, Ireland, Barcelona, and Pebble Beach for a memorable golfing experience

Chris Cotterell

Managing Partner and Co-Founder
540-450-8351

I'm Chris, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Water Street Financial. My passion lies in developing sound investment strategies, building personalized portfolios, and carefully managing risk for our clients. My Bachelor of Science degree from Slippery Rock University and over 25 years in the industry have honed my expertise and strategic approach. I thrive on working directly with individuals and ensuring our firm's focus on client-centric solutions. Before launching Water Street, I partnered with Ryan Oates at First Bank Wealth Management, where we successfully expanded the private client segment. This reinforced my dedication to tailored financial solutions.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Julie, and our daughter, Peyton. I love going outdoors and occasionally hitting the golf course. Giving back to my community is also important to me.

 

Tommy Stine

Director of Retirement Plan Services
540-450-8351

I'm Tommy, Director of Retirement Plan Services at Water Street Financial. My focus is on helping people live their best lives within their financial means. Whether I'm guiding someone towards their dream retirement or helping businesses design plans that attract top talent, I’m passionate about navigating the complexities of financial planning. I always make sure to stay up to date on those ever-changing ERISA rules.

My wife Tina and I are proud to call Winchester home and love giving back to our community. I volunteer my time with organizations like the Judges Athletic Association, and I'm always cheering on my alma mater, James Madison University - go Dukes!

Tommy Stine is solely an investment advisor representatives of Wealthcare Advisory Partners LLC and not affiliated with LPL Financial.

Angela Morrison

V.P. of Operations
540-450-8351

I'm Angela, V.P. of Operations at Water Street Financial. My goal is to ensure our firm runs smoothly so we can provide an exceptional client experience. That means streamlining operations, welcoming new team members, staying on top of compliance, and making sure technology benefits both our clients and our staff. My decades of experience in financial services have given me a deep understanding of what works, and I'm especially proud of the time I spent alongside Chris Cotterell and Ryan Oates before they founded Water Street together.

Outside of work, I'm all about family time, cooking, and relaxing with classic movies. I'm also a huge Lucille Ball fan!

Katherine Hershey

Paraplanner
540-450-8351

I'm Katie, and I'm a Paraplanner at Water Street Financial. My role is to dig into the details that help our advisors create the best financial plans. I love working with clients, analyzing data, and crafting clear reports. My background in banking and even with a government contractor gave me a solid foundation in finance, organized record-keeping, and top-notch customer service.

Originally from Baltimore (go Ravens!), I've made my home in Charles Town, WV with my three kids. When I'm not crunching numbers, you'll find us outdoors, exploring new places, and making the most of family time.

Sarah Barber

Administrative Assistant
540-450-8351

I am Sarah, Administrative Assistant at Water Street Financial. I'm responsible for coordinating client appointments and assisting advisors in daily scheduling activities. I work to maintain the accuracy of the Client Relationship Management software, ensuring a streamlined and individualized service plan for every client. My past experience working for the Federal Government has enabled me to fine tune a skillset that excels in accuracy and efficiency of reporting, coupled with an exceptional ability to manage multiple projects while also being able to prioritize tasks.

Outside of work, you might find me crocheting, or doing some yoga to get my mind right. I always enjoy spending time with my menagerie of misfit pets. 

Katie Lopez

Client Experience Coordinator

With 15 years of experience in the financial world and the daily adventure of raising three boys, I brings calm to chaos and warmth to every client interaction. As WSF’s Client Experience Coordinator, I thrive on building genuine relationships and making clients feel supported, understood, and at ease—no matter the situation. Known for my can-do attitude and steady presence, I am the go-to for navigating high-stress moments with grace and efficiency.

When I’m not delighting clients, you can find me at a live concert, out in nature, or spending quality time with the people I love most.

Meet the Katies

Your Partners in Client Experience & Firm Flow

At WSF, the “Katies” are the heartbeat of our client experience and the secret sauce behind our smooth operations. Whether it’s scheduling, onboarding, solving a last-minute issue, or simply making sure your experience feels seamless and personal—this team is here to help.

Their main goal? To make every interaction effortless and every client feel genuinely cared for. With a deep background in finance, an eye for detail, and a heart for service, the Katies are always just a call or email away—ready to listen, assist, and find solutions.

Need help navigating something? Don’t worry—we’ve got you.