Deals & Dealmakers Summit

Tuesday, September 1 |
Thursday, September 3, 2026

At the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

Experience the premier event for dealmaking in the wealth management industry.

Renowned leaders, professionals and experts in financial services attend and participate in ECHELON’s annual Deals & Dealmakers (DDM) Summit for in-depth conversations on the most strategic and current M&A topics within the wealth and investment management industries.

This is an unparalleled opportunity to learn from 50+ industry experts, join intellectually stimulating panel sessions, and network with the industry’s leading professionals.

Meet Our 2026 Speakers

At the Deals & Dealmakers Summit, we do not skim the surface. We dive deep. Expect high impact sessions featuring worksheets, analysis, and practical tools, led by distinguished voices with fresh perspectives. Every session is designed to deliver depth, relevance, and meaningful takeaways.

Barnaby AudsleyManaging Director, ECHELON Partners

Barnaby Audsley

Managing Director, ECHELON Partners

Barnaby Audsley is a Managing Director at ECHELON Partners and focuses on a diversity of M&A, capital raising, and strategic advisory projects. During his tenure at ECHELON, Barnaby has supported a number of notable transactions such as SEIA’s strategic investment from Reverence Capital Partners, Daintree Advisors and its sale to Cerity Partners, Vestmark’s sale of Adhesion to AssetMark, and Sawtooth Solution’s sale to Simplicity Group. He has over 10 years of experience advising entrepreneurs, investors, and executive teams in the wealth and investment management industries.

Barnaby’s prior experience focused on private equity and financial sponsor coverage at a prominent multi-family office, Bel Air Investment Advisors. During his time with Bel Air, he assisted in the sourcing and underwriting of fund, co-investment opportunities, and direct transactions, culminating in over $400 million of assets deployed. He also participated on the firm’s investment committee and supported strategic planning initiatives across finance, marketing, and operations, coordinating with the board and management team.

Barnaby received his Bachelor’s in Economics from Occidental College, where he was a Director and Alumni Chair of the student-run investment portfolio. Barnaby, a native of London, England, currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Meg CarpenterCEO, FICOMM Partners

Meg Carpenter

CEO, FICOMM Partners

Meg Carpenter is CEO and Co-Founder of Ficomm Partners, a growth marketing consultancy helping enterprise RIAs build the strategy and marketing infrastructure that drives sustained organic growth.

She serves as Vice Chair of the CFP Board Center for Financial Planning Advisory Council, on the Board of Trustees for the Foundation for Financial Planning, and on the Board of Absolute Engagement. She also hosts the Growth Leaders of Wealth Management podcast.

Tim WelshCEO, Nexus Strategy

Tim Welsh

CEO, Nexus Strategy

Tim Welsh, CFP® is President, CEO, and Founder of Nexus Strategy, LLC, a consulting firm serving the wealth management industry. Prior to founding Nexus Strategy, he was Director of Business Consulting Services for Schwab Advisor Services, where he led the development and marketing of practice management resources for independent advisors.

Earlier in his career, Tim was a Vice President at Merrill Lynch, where he was responsible for marketing, product development, and financial advisor training for the financial planning group. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley, an MBA in Finance from the University of Colorado, and holds the Certified Financial Planner, CFP® designation.

Sam SphireVP, ECHELON Partners

Sam Sphire

VP, ECHELON Partners

Sam Sphire is a Vice President at ECHELON Partners and focuses on a diversity of M&A advisory, investment banking, and strategic advisory assignments. Before joining ECHELON, Sam worked as an Analyst at Brookside Mezzanine Partners where he underwrote and analyzed investments for the firm’s investment funds.

Sam has a B.S. in Management with concentrations in Finance and Information Systems from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College where he was a member of the Honors Program Alumni Relations Committee and Outdoor Adventures Club. Sam grew up in Encinitas, CA and now resides in Manhattan Beach, CA.

Mark TibergienIndependent Board Member

Mark Tibergien

Independent Board Member

Mark Tibergien is a nationally recognized expert on management, strategy, and transition issues within the financial services industry. Over a career spanning five decades, he has led organizations through start-up, growth, turnaround, and exit, and has consulted with hundreds of financial services firms.

In 2020, he retired as CEO of Pershing Advisor Solutions. He currently serves as Advisor-in-Residence for Ernst & Young’s Wealth & Asset Management Group and as a director of Pathstone.

Brett MulderManaging Director, ECHELON Partners

Brett Mulder

Managing Director, ECHELON Partners

Brett Mulder is a Managing Director at ECHELON Partners and spends time across all of the firm’s core activities including M&A advisory, strategic consulting, and thought leadership. He has supported a number of notable transactions in his career thus far, including Heber Fuger Wendin’s sale to Mariner Wealth Advisors, GTCR & Reverence’s purchase of Wells Fargo Asset Management, and Integrated Wealth Advisory’s sale to the Carson Group.

Prior to joining ECHELON, Brett was a Senior Associate with Deutsche Bank Securities, working in their US investment bank and within the Financial Institutions Group. With Deutsche, Brett advised wealth managers, asset managers, FinTech companies, and financial sponsors on a variety of strategic endeavors including M&A, IPOs, SPACs, and leveraged finance. Through that experience, Brett spent significant time cultivating relationships with private equity firms and platform buyers involved and interested in the wealth management ecosystem.

Brett has B.S. in Finance from San Diego State University where he also served as VP of the student investment council. Brett currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Dan SeivertCEO and Founder at ECHELON Partners

Dan Seivert

CEO and Founder at ECHELON Partners

Dan Seivert is the CEO and Founder of ECHELON Partners, a leading investment bank and consulting firm dedicated to the wealth and investment management industries. Since founding the firm, Seivert has built ECHELON into one of the most respected names in financial services M&A, research, and strategic advisory.

Seivert brings over 30 years of industry experience, having worked with more than 900 executive teams and boards to develop and execute a wide range of business strategies and transactions. Under his leadership, ECHELON has advised on thousands of valuations, acquisition targets, and capital events, shaping the landscape of independent wealth management.

He is the architect behind ECHELON’s Deals & Dealmakers Summit, the industry’s premier M&A conference, and the firm’s widely followed Quarterly RIA M&A Deal Report, recognized as the authoritative source on transaction trends in the independent wealth space.

Seivert has served on the Boards of AssetMark Investment Services, BridgePortfolio, and Occidental College, and is a frequent keynote speaker at industry events including those hosted by the Money Management Institute (MMI), Financial Services Institute (FSI), American Bankers Association (ABA), and others.

He has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, InvestmentNews, RIABiz, Financial Advisor, and Fortune, among other top-tier financial publications.

Seivert holds deep expertise across mergers and acquisitions, valuation, corporate strategy, capital raising, private equity, governance, and equity-sharing structures. His unique combination of industry knowledge, private equity experience, and senior operating perspective enables him to deliver visionary, execution-focused counsel to leadership teams navigating transformational growth.

Henry McMillanVP, ECHELON Partners

Henry McMillan

VP, ECHELON Partners

Henry McMillan is a Vice President at ECHELON Partners, where he specializes in M&A advisory, investment banking, thought leadership, and strategic consulting. Prior to joining ECHELON, Henry was an Associate at Goldman Sachs focused on M&A and capital advisory for companies in the consumer and retail sectors.

Henry holds an M.B.A. with a concentration in Entrepreneurship from UCLA Anderson and a BA in Economics from Connecticut College, where he played water polo. Henry is from New York, NY and now resides in Hermosa Beach, CA.

Ross InelisanoPartner, Lax Neville Inelisano

Ross Inelisano

Partner, Lax Neville Inelisano

Ross B. Intelisano is an employment lawyer and founding partner of Lax, Neville & Intelisano, LLP in New York. He represents financial services employees and wealth management teams in transitions to and from wire houses, broker dealers, RIAs, private banks and other institutions. Recently, Ross has helped close multiple sophisticated lift outs and asset sales for advisors nationwide.

Ross and his firm also handle large and complex employment and investment disputes in arbitration and litigation on behalf of employees, firms and investors. He and his team have tried and won some of FINRA’s most significant arbitration awards, including the largest securities arbitration award ever rendered against Goldman Sachs.

Jenny SouzaCEO, Emigrant Partners

Jenny Souza

CEO, Emigrant Partners

Jenny Johnson is CEO and President of Emigrant Partners, where she sets the firm’s strategic direction and oversees a team responsible for providing capital and advice to partner firms, making new platform investments, and supporting sub-acquisitions. Prior to assuming the CEO role in 2023, she led the firm’s Strategic Advisory efforts, working closely with partner firm leadership on growth opportunities and business initiatives.

Jenny has more than 25 years of experience in wealth management, institutional asset management, investment banking, and financial services. Prior to joining Emigrant Partners, she held leadership roles at BrightSphere Investment Group and BNY Mellon Wealth Management and worked in investment banking at Berkshire Capital Corporation and Canaccord Adams. Jenny holds a B.A. from Harvard College and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Ted MotheralManaging Partner, Mercer Advisors

Ted Motheral

Managing Partner, Mercer Advisors

Ted is responsible for driving the growth and expansion of the organization through strategic mergers and acquisitions of other wealth management firms. In this role, Ted leads firms in their transition decisions, including assessment of fit, due diligence, financial analysis, talent mapping, and deal negotiations.

Ted has a JD from University of Pittsburgh School of Law, MBA in Finance from University of Pittsburgh, and a BBA from Villanova University.

Lisa CraffordHead of Advisory, Constellation Wealth

Lisa Crafford

Head of Advisory, Constellation Wealth

Lisa Crafford is Head of Advisory at Constellation Wealth Capital. Prior to joining the firm, she served as Director and Head of Business Consulting at BNY Mellon | Pershing, where she worked with wealth management and advisory firms to help grow and strengthen their businesses. She also founded the INSITE University Student Experience and The Next Leadership Forum and led Pershing’s research efforts with industry media partners.

Earlier in her career, Lisa was Director of Business Management for an RIA in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Lisa earned a B.A. in Business Management and French from the University of Technology, Sydney Australia and her MBA from the College of William and Mary, Williamsburg VA.

Lewis SchiffChairman, Birthing of Giants

Lewis Schiff

Chairman, Birthing of Giants

Lewis Schiff is Chairman of Birthing of Giants, a fellowship program that helps owners of fast-growth companies develop and execute strategic plans to grow their businesses. He has led the program for more than a decade, bringing together entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and industry experts to support business growth and leadership development.

Lewis holds a Ph.D. in Business/Commerce and is the author of multiple books on business success. He is a contributor to Inc., Forbes, and Worth Media, serves on the advisory council of The Norm Brodsky College of Business, and is a graduate of the Birthing of Giants program.

Jim RiversCEO, United Capital

Jim Rivers

CEO, United Capital

Jim is President of United Capital, where he oversees the executive leadership team and is responsible for the firm’s vision, mission, and strategic direction. He works closely with the national team of financial professionals to help ensure clients receive personal financial planning and customized investment solutions.

Prior to joining United Capital, Jim was a Managing Director and Region Head of Goldman Sachs Personal Financial Management, overseeing services provided to high-net-worth clients in the West Region. Earlier in his career, he held leadership and advisory roles with Ayco and the Goldman Sachs Partners Family Office. Jim earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Fordham University and a Juris Doctor degree from Brooklyn Law School.

Jason OzurCEO, Lido Advisors

Jason Ozur

CEO, Lido Advisors

Jason Ozur is CEO of Lido Advisors and Co-Chairman of the firm’s investment committee. He is responsible for the management of Lido’s alternative investments and participates in the due diligence process for real estate-oriented investment strategies used in client portfolios. Prior to joining Lido, he served on the management and investment teams of a large family investment office and as controller of a multi-billion-dollar Los Angeles-based hedge fund.

Earlier in his career, Jason worked as a CPA with Ozur, Anderssen & Radder, where he performed audits, prepared tax returns, and provided back-office services for hedge funds. He earned a Bachelor of Science from California State University, Northridge, is a Certified Public Accountant, and holds the Series 65 designation.

Jim AbbottPartner, Seward & Kissel LLP

Jim Abbott

Partner, Seward & Kissel LLP

Jim Abbott is Co-Head of Seward & Kissel’s Corporate M&A Practice and has been a partner with the firm since 2007. He represents public and private companies, investment funds, investment management firms, financial institutions, and business owners in connection with mergers and acquisitions, private equity transactions, financings, joint ventures, strategic alliances, and other corporate matters.

Jim has extensive experience advising clients on a broad range of business transactions and general corporate matters. He earned a B.A., magna cum laude, from Colgate University and a J.D. from New York University School of Law, where he was a member of the Moot Court Board.

Geoffrey PaulCEO, The Paul Group

Geoffrey Paul

CEO, The Paul Group

Geoffrey Paul joined United Capital in 2025, bringing more than 40 years of experience in investment management and advisory services for high-net-worth individuals and families. He began his career with Merrill Lynch while still a college student and became the firm’s youngest First Vice President at age 24. Geoffrey later joined Oppenheimer & Co., where he became a Managing Director and Limited Partner and founded The Paul Group.

Throughout his career, Geoffrey continued his role as Chief Investment Strategist of The Paul Group while serving as a Managing Director with Bear Stearns & Co., UBS Financial Services, and Morgan Stanley. He has also advised private collectors, estates, and institutions on significant art, objects, and historic properties. Geoffrey earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics and business from Rollins College.

Pat CollinsCo-Founder, Greenspring Advisors

Pat Collins

Co-Founder, Greenspring Advisors

Pat Collins is CEO and Co-Founder of Greenspring Advisors. He has worked in the financial services industry since 2000 and previously worked at Merrill Lynch. Pat is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and an Enrolled Agent with the Internal Revenue Service.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State University and is active in several charitable organizations, including Leadline Ministries and New Song Community Learning Center.

Mark BrunoManaging Director and Head of Strategic Advisory, Emigrant Partners

Mark Bruno

Managing Director and Head of Strategic Advisory, Emigrant Partners

Mark Bruno is Managing Director, Head of Strategic Advisory, at Emigrant Partners, where he helps partner firms identify and execute on opportunities to accelerate growth. Prior to joining Emigrant Partners in 2023, he spent more than 20 years in the wealth and asset management industries, most recently serving as Managing Director of the Wealth Management Group at Informa.

Earlier in his career, Mark was a Managing Director at Echelon Partners and spent more than a decade at InvestmentNews, where he oversaw the company’s digital businesses, RIA events, and RIA benchmarking studies. He is also the author of Save Now or Die Trying, a retirement planning book published in 2007.

Neil TurnerCo-Founder and Co-CEO, NewEdge Advisors (formerly Gross Advisors)

Neil Turner

Co-Founder and Co-CEO, NewEdge Advisors (formerly Gross Advisors)

Neil Turner is Co-Founder of NewEdge Advisors and serves as Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Revenue Officer of NewEdge Capital Group. In his current role, he leads revenue and growth strategy across the organization, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions, advisor transitions, retention, strategic investments, business development, and partnership initiatives.

Prior to co-founding NewEdge Advisors, Neil began his career at JP Morgan and later served as Chief Strategy Officer of iSeatz.com. He subsequently co-founded an advertising technology business before launching NewEdge Advisors with his business partner, Alex Goss. Neil earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Kenyon College.

Rob LemmonsManaging Partner, Total Wealth Planning

Rob Lemmons

Managing Partner, Total Wealth Planning

Rob Lemmons is Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor at Carson Wealth, where he oversees every client’s financial planning experience. He takes a holistic approach that goes beyond finances, focusing on understanding each client’s family structure, goals, and life priorities.

Rob’s philosophy is that financial planning is deeply connected to life planning, helping clients set objectives and make informed decisions to pursue their vision. Known for his thoughtful, client-focused approach, he works closely with clients to align their financial strategies with their long-term goals.

Meet Our 2026 Summit Experts

Explore the 2026 lineup of speakers and industry experts. Our signature small-group format gives attendees direct access to leading voices across wealth management, M&A, valuation, legal advisory, and strategic consulting.

Aaron RacinoSenior Relationship Manager, PPC Loan

Aaron Racino

Senior Relationship Manager, PPC Loan

Aaron Racino is a Senior Relationship Manager at PPC LOAN, a cash-flow based lender providing nationwide financing to service sector businesses. Since joining PPC LOAN in 2015, he has worked with business owners across a variety of industries and has evaluated, underwritten, and secured financing approval for more than 500 transactions.

He now spends 100% of his time consulting on the financing needs of RIAs and independent financial advisors nationwide, with a focus on acquisitions.

Adam FaragVP, Strategic Markets at Oak Street Funding

Adam Farag

VP, Strategic Markets at Oak Street Funding

Adam Farag is a business lending professional at Oak Street Funding with more than 15 years of banking experience. He specializes in business lending and has advised hundreds of business owners on financing strategies to support growth and expansion.

Since 2017, Adam has secured more than $300 million in capital for wealth advisors to support acquisitions, succession planning, and debt restructuring.

Barnaby AudsleyManaging Director, ECHELON Partners

Barnaby Audsley

Managing Director, ECHELON Partners

Clif ColbertVP, Goldman Sachs Global Banking & Markets

Clif Colbert

VP, Goldman Sachs Global Banking & Markets

Clif is a vice president in the Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) Custody Sales and Intermediary Investment Banking coverage group within Global Banking & Markets. Prior to joining GS, Clif was a commercial banker at JP Morgan for seven years where he focused on loan originations, treasury services, and M&A for diversified industries, energy, and VC backed technology.

Clif earned a BS in Quantitative Economics from the United States Naval Academy in 2009 and has an MS in Systems Engineering from Southern Methodist University.

Jim DilworthFounder and CEO, Dilworth Capital

Jim Dilworth

Founder and CEO, Dilworth Capital

James “Jim” Dilworth is an experienced entrepreneur and investor with a deep background in wealth and asset management. He began his career on the trading floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and later held senior leadership roles at Thomson Reuters in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Jim went on to found a prominent alternatives investment platform and currently invests in wealth management businesses through Entwood Holdings. His expertise spans alternative investments, financial technology, and strategic partnership development. He holds a B.A. from Southern Illinois University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

David MainzerShareholder, Buchalter

David Mainzer

Shareholder, Buchalter

David Mainzer is a Partner in Buchalter’s Los Angeles office, a member of the Corporate Practice Group, and Chair of the firm’s Investment Management Industry Group. He has more than 25 years of experience advising investment management firms and funds on corporate, transactional, and regulatory matters and frequently serves as outside general counsel to clients across the investment management industry.

Earlier in his career, David served as General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer of Amerindo Investment Advisors, where he managed the firm’s legal affairs, regulatory compliance, risk management, and fund structures. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Doug FritzFounder, F2 Strategy

Doug Fritz

Founder, F2 Strategy

Doug Fritz is Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of F2 Strategy, a wealth technology consulting firm serving the wealth management industry. He has led organizations as a CTO, startup founder, CEO, and Executive Chairman and currently focuses on strategic growth and mergers and acquisitions. Doug works with advisory firms on technology strategy, client experience, and business transformation initiatives.

Doug is a recognized strategist in the wealth management technology space and has extensive experience helping firms evaluate and implement technology solutions to support growth and operational efficiency.

Dustin MangoneManaging Partner & Director, PPC Loan

Dustin Mangone

Managing Partner & Director, PPC Loan

Dustin Mangone is Managing Partner and Director of Investment Advisor Services at PPC LOAN, a nationwide cash-flow lender serving RIAs. With more than 20 years of experience, he has evaluated and underwritten more than $2 billion in financing for investment advisors.

Dustin specializes in M&A financing, succession planning, partner buy-ins and buyouts, equity purchases, and debt refinancing. He advises advisors nationwide and is a frequent industry speaker on advisor transactions and lending solutions.

Jared BaucomManaging Director, Cerulli Associates

Jared Baucom

Managing Director, Cerulli Associates

Jared is responsible for Cerulli’s global sales, client service, and marketing teams, and co-heads Cerulli’s consulting and custom research business.

Jared also oversees operational initiatives at the firm, focusing on projects spanning the organization’s functional teams, and plays an active role in guiding the firm’s long-term product and corporate development initiatives.

Meg CarpenterCEO, FICOMM Partners

Meg Carpenter

CEO, FICOMM Partners

Meg Carpenter is CEO and Co-Founder of Ficomm Partners, a growth marketing consultancy helping enterprise RIAs build the strategy and marketing infrastructure that drives sustained organic growth.

Julie LittlechildFounder and CEO, Absolute Engagement

Julie Littlechild

Founder and CEO, Absolute Engagement

Julie Littlechild is the Founder of Absolute Engagement, a firm that provides engagement technology designed to increase referrals, engagement, and loyalty. She is a leading researcher on the needs of high-net-worth clients and the author of The Pursuit of Absolute Engagement.

Julie received the Luminary Award for Innovation from ThinkAdvisor and a WealthTech Leadership Award from WealthBriefing. Under her leadership, the Absolute Engagement Engine was recognized as one of the 100 most innovative wealthtech firms.

Oleg TishkevichCEO, Invent

Oleg Tishkevich

CEO, Invent

Oleg Tishkevich is Founder and CEO of Invent®, a cloud-focused software development firm. Prior to founding Invent®, he founded Finance Logix, a financial planning software company that was acquired by Envestnet in 2015. Throughout his career, Oleg has focused on developing technology solutions for the wealth management industry.

At Finance Logix, Oleg led the development of firm-wide technology solutions for organizations including Wells Fargo, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, AssetMark, and Janney Montgomery Scott. He also led the development of Retire Logix, a mobile financial planning application.

Kelli CruzCEO & Managing Partner, Cruz Consulting Group

Kelli Cruz

CEO & Managing Partner, Cruz Consulting Group

Kelli Cruz is Founder and CEO of Cruz Consulting Group, where she leads the firm’s business management consulting services for financial services firms. She works closely with advisory firm owners and financial services executives, specializing in strategic planning, organizational design, compensation planning, performance management, and business succession.

Kelli has more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry and has extensive expertise working with RIA and broker-dealer affiliated advisory firms. She is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and a regular columnist for InvestmentNews on practice management topics.

Linda Paullin-HebdenPartner, Warner Norcross and Judd

Linda Paullin-Hebden

Partner, Warner Norcross and Judd

Linda Paullin-Hebden is a Warner partner specializing in advising investment advisers and broker-dealers. She handles a variety of matters, including mergers and acquisitions, compliance, fund formation, joint ventures, private investments and other transactions as well as general corporate issues.

Linda’s financial services investment practice spans the United States.

Rick DennenFounder & CEO, Oak Street Funding

Rick Dennen

Founder & CEO, Oak Street Funding

Rick Dennen is the founder and CEO of Oak Street Funding, a First Financial Bank company. A CPA and former Senior Manager at Deloitte, Rick holds a BS in Accounting and an MBA from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business.

He has served as an adjunct professor at Kelley, teaching venture capital and entrepreneurial finance, and is a sought-after speaker on startups, capital options, and succession planning.

Jeffrey BischoffFounder and CEO, Old Greenwich Consultants

Jeffrey Bischoff

Founder and CEO, Old Greenwich Consultants

Jeffrey Bischoff is the President and Founder of Old Greenwich Consultants, an executive search firm dedicated to the wealth management industry. With more than 30 years of experience in executive recruitment, Jeff has built deep relationships with top advisors and industry leaders.

He previously held senior recruiting roles at Smith Barney, UBS, and Oppenheimer & Co., where he led regional recruitment efforts following the sale of his prior firm. Jeff holds a B.A. from Villanova University.

Shannon RosicDirector, Informa

Shannon Rosic

Director, Informa

Shannon Rosic is the Director of Content and Solutions at Informa/WealthManagement.com, where she leads programming, content strategy and conversations at the intersection of wealth management, technology and advisor growth.

She is also the host of The WealthStack Podcast, and is known for bringing sharp questions, energy and a practical advisor-first lens to every stage and interview. Outside of work, she brings that same drive to the arena as a barrel racer.

Stephen CarusoDirector of Wealth Management, Cerulli Associates

Stephen Caruso

Director of Wealth Management, Cerulli Associates

As a Director of Wealth Management, Stephen develops critical research on U.S. registered investment advisors (RIAs). His team is responsible for the collection, interpretation, and visualization of financial advisor data and defining emerging themes impacting the industry.

He has issued groundbreaking coverage on the rise of merger and acquisition activity and related consolidation industry, the emergence of the RIA consolidator model, and the role of private capital.

Tim WelshCEO, Nexus Strategy

Tim Welsh

CEO, Nexus Strategy

Wayne HewettVP, Live Oak Bank

Wayne Hewett

VP, Live Oak Bank

Wayne Hewett joined Live Oak Bank in 2025, bringing in over two decades of experience within the financial services industry. With a solid foundation in investment advisory, Wayne had experience in running a financial advisory practice in North Carolina, and serving in the succession and acquisitions division of a leading independent broker-dealer prior to his role at Live Oak Bank.

Through his prior role as a practice management consultant, Wayne has developed a deep understanding of practice staffing, marketing strategies, operational efficiency, financial oversight, and succession planning. This firsthand industry experience helps leverage his knowledge to assist businesses in achieving their goals with Live Oak Bank. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from NC State.

Pablo BizjackSenior Director, BNY Pershing

Pablo Bizjack

Senior Director, BNY Pershing

Pablo Bizjack is Senior Director of Business Development for Wealth Solutions at BNY Pershing, which serves wealth-oriented broker-dealers, registered investment advisors (RIAs), and trust companies with custody and middle-office solutions. He is responsible for new revenue and asset growth and serves as a member of the Wealth Solutions sales leadership team.

Pablo works closely with wealth management firms to support growth initiatives and deliver solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of advisors and their clients.

Jason RobertsFounder and CEO, Pension Resource Institute

Jason Roberts

Founder and CEO, Pension Resource Institute

Jason is an expert and an attorney with over two decades of experience helping financial intuitions compete and comply in the retirement marketplace. He is the founder and CEO of Pension Resource Institute and a partner at Fiduciary Law Center.

Jason’s practice focuses on the intersection of securities regulations and ERISA/DOL rules putting him in a unique position to help firms capitalize on opportunities to profitably serve retirement plans while managing ever-changing requirements and risks.

Ryan TomminsVice President, LPL

Ryan Tommins

Vice President, LPL

Ryan is a Vice President of M&A Solutions at LPL Financial, where he leads the firm’s sell-side M&A practice for financial advisors and RIAs. He played a key role in building the team from the ground up and has supported 120+ transactions.

Ryan has partnered with founders from strategy through execution across a high volume of deals, which helps him bring a broad, practical perspective and a strong pulse on the key themes that resonate with sellers.

Molly CranePartner, Blank Rome

Molly Crane

Partner, Blank Rome

Molly Crane has a broad-based corporate and general business practice, with a focus on mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures, private equity transactions and general corporate, partnership, and limited liability company matters.

She often serves as outside general counsel to many businesses.

Bing WaldertSenior Relationship Manager, PPC Loan

Bing Waldert

Senior Relationship Manager, PPC Loan

Bing Waldert is Managing Director and leads Cerulli’s U.S. Research team, overseeing research across the asset management, wealth management, and retirement markets. He has authored numerous Cerulli reports covering the wealth management industry, high-net-worth market, annuity industry, and retirement markets.

Bing also advises firms on growth strategies, investment platforms, outsourced chief investment officer (OCIO) services, and acquisitions in the wealth management space.

Prior to joining Cerulli in 2004, Bing worked in product management and competitive research for MFS and Sun Life. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Classics from the College of the Holy Cross.

Jay WamplerDirector and Senior Business Management Consultant, Charles Schwab

Jay Wampler

Director and Senior Business Management Consultant, Charles Schwab

Jay Wampler is a Director and Senior Business Management Consultant at Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., with more than 20 years of experience in financial services, wealth management, and business consulting.

He partners with advisors to help them build efficient, scalable, and profitable businesses. Jay is passionate about helping advisors identify opportunities to strengthen their firms and enhance outcomes for their clients.

Corey KupferFounder and Managing Partner, Kupfer & Associates

Corey Kupfer

Founder and Managing Partner, Kupfer & Associates

Corey Kupfer is Founder and Managing Partner of Kupfer PLLC, where he advises clients on corporate structuring, strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, succession planning, and other business transactions. An entrepreneur since the age of 15, Corey works closely with business owners on growth, deal-making, and long-term business strategy.

Prior to founding Kupfer PLLC, Corey practiced with Seyfarth Shaw and Herrick, Feinstein and later operated his own law practice before reestablishing Kupfer PLLC in 2015. He earned a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law and was admitted to the New York Bar in 1986.

Sean KeenanManaging Director and Head of Business Development, BNY Pershing

Sean Keenan

Managing Director and Head of Business Development, BNY Pershing

Sean Keenan is Managing Director and Head of Sales, Wealth Solutions, at BNY Pershing, where he serves wealth-oriented broker-dealers, registered investment advisors (RIAs), and trust companies with custody and middle-office solutions. He is responsible for new revenue and asset growth and is a member of the Wealth Solutions senior leadership team.

Sean brings more than 25 years of experience in the financial services and institutional business. Throughout his career, he has worked with wealth management firms to support growth and deliver solutions that help meet the evolving needs of advisors and their clients.

Sam SphireVP, ECHELON Partners

Sam Sphire

VP, ECHELON Partners

Brett MulderManaging Director, ECHELON Partners

Brett Mulder

Managing Director, ECHELON Partners

Brett has B.S. in Finance from San Diego State University where he also served as VP of the student investment council. Brett currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Jim AbbottPartner, Seward & Kissel LLP

Jim Abbott

Partner, Seward & Kissel LLP

Tony AbbottSenior Vice President, Wintrust Commercial Banking

Tony Abbott

Senior Vice President, Wintrust Commercial Banking

Tony Abbott is Managing Director and Wintrust Investment Advisor Banking Group Leader, specializing in direct banking and lending services for Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), including financing for mergers and acquisitions, succession planning, lift-outs, dividend recapitalizations, and customized treasury management solutions.

With nearly 30 years of banking experience, Tony has worked with privately held middle market companies across a wide range of industries. As a group leader and senior relationship manager with Wintrust Commercial Banking, he helps businesses grow through creative financing and banking solutions while serving as a trusted advisor to executive management teams. Tony earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics, Finance, and Accounting from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Russell LarsenMarket Head, Wintrust Commercial Banking

Russell Larsen

Market Head, Wintrust Commercial Banking

Russ Larsen serves as Market Head for the Northwest Suburbs of Wintrust Financial Corporation. With more than 35 years of experience working with middle market companies across the greater Chicagoland area, he is known for building personalized client relationships and leading strategic conversations focused on growth, succession planning, and long-term success.

Russ earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance with an emphasis in Accounting from Northern Illinois University and an MBA in Marketing with a concentration in Finance from DePaul University. He serves on the Board of Advisors for the Northern Illinois University College of Business and is a Board Member of the American Cancer Society, Village Bank & Trust, Barrington Bank & Trust, and Schaumburg Bank & Trust.

Pat BurnsLaw Office of Patrick J. Burns

Pat Burns

Law Office of Patrick J. Burns

Pat Burns Jr., Esq., is the Managing Attorney of The Law Offices of Patrick J. Burns, Jr., P.C. and previously served as President of Advanced Regulatory Compliance LLC. He is a member of the California, New Jersey, New York, and Texas Bars and advises financial services firms on regulatory, compliance, employment, and business matters.

Pat began his professional career with a New Jersey-based law firm before serving in legal and compliance roles with financial services firms in New York City and Los Angeles. During his career, he acquired numerous FINRA and insurance licenses and has become a frequent industry speaker. He earned his Juris Doctor from Southwestern University School of Law and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship from Pace University’s Lubin School of Business.

Mason GillespieAssociate Director, Cerulli Associates

Mason Gillespie

Associate Director, Cerulli Associates

MasonGillespie is an Associate Director at Cerulli Associates, where he is responsible for relationship management, sales, and business development for the firm’s U.S. clients.

Mason has several years of industry experience, having worked at Eaton Vance and Columbia Threadneedle before joining Cerulli Associates. While at Columbia Threadneedle Investments, he was a Regional Sales Director covering the RIA channel. Mason earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Roanoke College.

Liz FritzCo-Founder, F2 Strategy

Liz Fritz

Co-Founder, F2 Strategy

Liz Fritz is a tenured marketing executive and Co-Founder of F2 Strategy, the largest pure-play wealthtech consulting firm in the U.S. As a former corporate marketer, Liz offers unique expertise in the entrepreneurial and M&A space through her experience successfully translating her in-house marketing and communications knowledge into growing F2’s enterprise value through strategic marketing, brand strategy, and culture development.

Liz is a frequent speaker at industry events and a vocal advocate for supporting and lifting women in the industry. She is recognized for helping firms build stronger brands and drive growth through innovative marketing strategies and business transformation initiatives.

Chris RowlettPartner, PVF Law

Chris Rowlett

Partner, PVF Law

Christopher Rowlett is a partner at PVF with a practice focused on employment, labor, and complex commercial litigation. He represents clients in state and federal courts, appellate courts, administrative proceedings, and arbitration forums, and advises employers on matters including employment agreements, restrictive covenants, trade secrets, workforce planning, wage and hour issues, and discrimination claims.

Prior to joining PVF, Christopher was a partner at Honigman Miller Schwartz & Cohn and previously practiced with Luce Forward Hamilton & Scripps and McKenna Long & Aldridge. He earned a J.D. from the University of Michigan and a B.S.E. in Aerospace Engineering, cum laude, from the University of Michigan.

Alicia ChandlerPresident, Oak Street Funding

Alicia Chandler

President, Oak Street Funding

Alicia Chandler is President of Oak Street Funding, a First Financial Bank company. Prior to becoming President, she served as Chief Counsel for Oak Street Funding for 11 years. She oversees the daily business operations of the organization and supports new and existing client development initiatives.

Alicia has more than 20 years of legal experience in the private and public sectors, with a background in commercial lending for registered investment advisers, certified public accountants, and insurance professionals. Her experience also includes creditor’s rights and litigation.

2026 Deals & Dealmakers Summit Agenda

Download the Agenda

Tuesday, September 1st

Summit Pre-Conference Golf Event at the Monarch Beach Golf Links (Optional)

Time

10:30 - Noon

11 AM - Noon

4:30 - 6:00 PM

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

7:30 PM

Event

Check-in for Golf, Box Lunch, Warmup

Tee Off

Post-Golf Appetizers, Cocktails, Awards

Chart House Cocktails Reception (Invite Only)

Sunset Dinner at Chart House (Invite Only)

                                    10:30 - Noon                                

                                    Check-in for Golf, Box Lunch, Warmup                                

11 AM - Noon

Tee Off

                                    4:30 - 6:00 PM                                

                                    Post-Golf Appetizers, Cocktails, Awards                                

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Chart House Cocktails Reception (Invite Only)

                                    7:30 PM                                

                                    Sunset Dinner at Chart House (Invite Only)                                

Wednesday, September 2nd

Summit Day One

Time

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

3:40 PM - 5:20 PM

5:20 PM – 6:30 PM

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Event

Optional Pre-Conference Workshop: Valuation Executive Masterclass

Networking Lunch with Experts and Sponsors

"Ask the Experts" (5x20 Minute Intro Meetings)

Networking Break

Speaking Sessions

Cocktail Reception Overlooking Salt Creek Beach

"Dealmakers Dinner" at Sunset

                                    9:00 AM - 11:00 AM                                

                                    Optional Pre-Conference Workshop: Valuation Executive Masterclass                                

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM

Networking Lunch with Experts and Sponsors

                                    1:00 PM - 3:00 PM                                

                                    "Ask the Experts" (5x20 Minute Intro Meetings)                                

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Networking Break

                                    3:40 PM - 5:20 PM                                

                                    Speaking Sessions                                

5:20 PM – 6:30 PM

Cocktail Reception Overlooking Salt Creek Beach

                                    6:30 PM - 8:30 PM                                

                                    "Dealmakers Dinner" at Sunset                                

Thursday, September 3rd

Summit Day Two

Time

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM

8:00 AM - 8:10 AM

8:10 AM - 10:20 AM

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

12:00 PM - 1:10 PM

1:10 PM - 2:50 PM

2:50 PM - 3:20 PM

3:20 PM - 5:00 PM

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Event

Networking Breakfast

Sessions Begin

Speaking Sessions

Mid-Morning Break

Speaking Sessions

Lunch and Networking

Speaking Sessions

Networking Break

Speaking Sessions

"Closing the Deal" Cocktail Reception and Dinner at Sunset

                                    7:00 AM - 8:00 AM                                

                                    Networking Breakfast                                

8:00 AM - 8:10 AM

Sessions Begin

                                    8:10 AM - 10:20 AM                                

                                    Speaking Sessions                                

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Mid-Morning Break

                                    11:00 AM - 12:00 PM                                

                                    Speaking Sessions                                

12:00 PM - 1:10 PM

Lunch and Networking

                                    1:10 PM - 2:50 PM                                

                                    Speaking Sessions                                

2:50 PM - 3:20 PM

Networking Break

                                    3:20 PM - 5:00 PM                                

                                    Speaking Sessions                                

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

"Closing the Deal" Cocktail Reception and Dinner at Sunset

2026 Gold DDM Sponsors/Partners

2026 Silver DDM Sponsors/Partners

2026 Bronze DDM Sponsors/Partners

2025 Platinum DDM Sponsors/Partners

2025 Gold DDM Sponsors/Partners

2025 Silver DDM Sponsors/Partners

2025 Bronze DDM Sponsors/Partners

Reasons to Sponsor DDM

Access firms and decision makers who are influential in deal making
Develop new relationships and strengthen existing ones
Obtain in-depth knowledge on deal related subjects
Establish credibility or stature among key decision makers
Increase the awareness of your firm and reputation as a dealmaker
Meet acquisition targets, buyers, and merger partners

Click here for all sponsorship inquiries

Interactive Sessions. Innovative Networking. Applied Workshops. Real Deal Experience.

C-suite executives in attendence

Deals consummated by DDM attendees over the past five years

M&A subject matter experts present at each summit

One Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629

DDM will take place at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, an iconic oceanfront resort set above the Pacific with expansive coastal views and exceptional amenities. The property offers an elevated, private setting well suited for executive-level discussion, and ECHELON has negotiated a room block at preferred rates for attendees.

Registration Now Open