Merit Taps CAPTRUST Exec to Lead M&A Efforts

Merit Financial Advisors announced that it has recruited former CAPTRUST executive David Wahler as its new vice president of strategic partnerships, serving as the firm’s primary liaison for its M&A partnerships.

Wahler will be responsible for sourcing new deals, creating relationships with investors and strategic partners, and working closely with CEO Rick Kent and president Kay Lynne Mayhue to enhance the firm’s capabilities for onboarded firms. His previous work in strategic growth at CAPTRUST resulted in closing 50 M&A transactions.

Merit has been active in mergers and acquisitions in the past year, closing deals with four RIAs. Dakota reported that the firm acquired Pennsylvania-based Zimmerman Investment on January 1, Roth Asset Management in Oregon on December 17, Berwyn, PA-based Trinity Financial on December 11, and Viren & Associates in Washington on March 15. The firm reportedly manages $11.8B in client assets as of June 30, 2024.