Financial Advisors and Wealth Managers in Alpharetta, GA
Contact us today to learn more about what our award-winning team can do for you.
Accolades:
Our Alpharetta, GA Office
Contact
Phone: 678.867.7050
Fax: 678.867.7060
Toll-Free: 1.866.422.3543
Location
2400 Lakeview Pkwy
Suite 550
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Business Hours
Mon - Fri (8AM - 4:30PM)
Sat - Sun (Closed)
Our Team
Rick Kent
CEO, Founder
Meet Rick >
Rick L. Kent
CFP®, ChFC, AIF®
CEO, Founder
Rick is an entrepreneur and visionary leader who founded Merit on a servant-leadership philosophy and a commitment to helping individuals reach their financial goals while supporting fellow advisors and entrepreneurs in meeting their professional goals. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to the industry, including being ranked among the Forbes Top 10 Best-in-State Wealth Advisors List in Georgia for 2 consecutive years. Rick has a clear vision for Merit’s growth, designing a program that allows advisors to align with Merit in a number of ways. Rick is well versed in the industry and is striving to change it for the better.
Rick delivers high-energy presentations that challenge audiences to leverage their focus and pay attention to what matters most at work and in life. Audiences appreciate his practical strategies they can apply directly to their business model. Rick offers his insight to business owners, advisors, and executives. Having been a key player in multiple mergers and acquisitions over the past four years, Rick is well versed in the industry and is striving to change it for the better.
Earning many awards for his financial services capabilities, his team, and his vision have further highlighted Rick’s journey towards excellence. This perspective motivated him to coach, develop, inspire, and mentor fellow advisors as they strive to keep up with the everchanging financial services industry. He brings this same dedication to his work with business leaders to empower their teams and achieve greater success. Being a successful entrepreneur, Rick started multiple companies making him a diverse leader willing to share his recipes for success with others.
Chrissy Lee
Chief Operating Officer, Partner
Meet Chrissy >
Chrissy Lee
Chief Operating Officer | Partner
Chrissy serves as our Chief Operating Officer at Merit. Chrissy has over 15+ years of experience in the Wealth Management and Broker Dealer channel, having started her career in Operations and eventually rising to the role of COO and President at her previous firm. She previously served as a board member for IPA, served on the Advisory Council of Docupace, a technology provider for wealth management firms, created the Women Advisor Network, and served as a committee member for the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion task force.
At Merit, Chrissy is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the firm, working within the executive leadership team and each department within the organization to create efficiencies and streamline the client service experience. She is also responsible for operational strategy, driving strategic growth through mergers and acquisitions, and overseeing the onboarding process, business development, and technology implementations to create a best-in-class experience for the Merit community.
As a member of Merit’s Executive Leadership Team and Senior Leadership Team, Chrissy’s goal is to create a bridge between firm initiatives and working with the entire Merit team to bring open communication, forum to gather new ideas to make the client experience evergreen, to empower every team member to make decisions and help to execute goals together. This aligns with Merit’s belief that servant leadership comes above all else.
Chrissy enjoys spending time with her husband of 25+ years and their grown children. She loves reading classic literature, going to Disney, and watching classic movies. She has a heart for helping underprivileged families and considers this a life- long stewardship.
John Cote
Chief Growth Officer
Meet John >
John Cote
Chief Growth Officer
John Cote, Chief Growth Officer at Merit Financial Advisors, brings over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. Originally from Milwaukee, WI, he began his career at Morgan Stanley as an advisor before advancing into leadership roles across Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and Atlanta. His extensive background includes serving as Senior Vice President, National Director of Partner Programs, and National Director of Recruiting at Wealth Enhancement Group, as well as holding key leadership positions at E*TRADE Securities, SunTrust (now Truist) Investments, and Wells Fargo Investments and Private Bank. Now leading growth initiatives at Merit Financial, John is passionate about driving strategic expansion and fostering strong advisor partnerships. He and his wife, Ann, have been married for 31 years and have three adult children—Anna, Julia, and John Jr.—along with a lively household of dogs and cats. They reside on Amelia Island, FL.
Matt Wilson
VP of Information Security
Jooliana Krummel
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Meet Jooliana >
Jooliana Krummel
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Jooliana is the Director of Strategic Partnerships for Merit. She focuses on identifying and building strategic alliances with advisory businesses looking to partner with Merit Financial Advisors to forge lasting relationships that will mutually benefit and create pathways for growth for all parties. She embraces a mindset of exploration, constantly seeking new avenues and creative approaches to drive transformative partnerships. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Music Business from the University of Georgia. She likes to visit new restaurants, travel to new countries, and spend quality time with her friends and husband, Brandon.
Zach Kholman
Director of Employee Experience
Meet Zach >
Zach Kholman
Director of Employee Experience
Zach Kohlman is our Director of Employee Experience. He focuses on developing and delivering innovative, efficient, and cost-effective human resource programs, policies, and services designed to support the firm's mission. He enjoys initiating collaborative efforts that will help us succeed by increasing individual and institutional effectiveness and by earning the respect and trust of those who support us and do business with us.
Zach served for 20 years on active duty in the greatest naval force this world has ever seen, the U.S. Navy. With a specialty in human resources on active duty, he has taken his unique military experience and proven leadership to forge a unique human resources philosophy. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in History and his Master’s Degree in Contemporary World History and Politics, both from Excelsior College. He enjoys photography, astronomy, and reading about history.
Kay Lynn Mayhue
President
Meet Kay Lynn >
Kay Lynn Mayhue
CFP®, AEP®, RFC®
President, Partner
Kay Lynn has played many roles in the financial advisory industry: as a successor, partner, seller, and buyer. This unique and diverse background allows her to be able to relate to advisors in all phases of their careers and mergers and acquisitions. With a background in financial planning and leadership, her career expands over several areas, including advising clients, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic growth.
Kay Lynn worked her way up from an entry-level position to earn her seat at the C-Suites table as President of Merit, which manages over 5 billion in RIA and Brokerage assets under management. She holds her CFP®, AEP®, and RFC® and has been a critical decision-maker for two firms over the past twenty years. Kay Lynn has overseen multiple mergers and acquisitions over the past four years and has been recognized for her position as a female leader in the financial services industry.
She is passionate about helping people take their careers – and themselves – to exceptional levels. Kay Lynn’s influence in the industry and her drive for success is a driving factor in Merit's ongoing growth and appeal to growth-oriented advisors.
Most recent awards won:
- America's Top Women Wealth Advisors 2022 - Forbes/SHOOK
- America's Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State 2022 - Forbes/SHOOK
Amelia Wood
Chief Transitions Officer, Partner
Meet Amelia >
Amelia B. Wood
Chief Transitions Officer | Partner
Amelia brings over 20 years of experience in the financial services space, entirely of service to Merit. As the Chief Transitions Officer, she works with the transition team to onboard acquired and independent advisor partner firms to the Merit platform. With her extensive experience in serving the Merit team and specific expertise in accounting, payroll/benefits, compliance, technology, and business management, Amelia is a key resource in the transition process.
Amelia received a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of South Florida in Tampa and maintains her Series 7, 24 and 63 securities registrations with LPL Financial. After living in the city of Atlanta for almost 20 years, Amelia now calls the northern suburb of Milton home with her husband, Bryan, and their two children, Alex and Olivia. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, playing tennis, traveling, and watching her kids play sports.
Doug Baxley
Chief Compliance Officer
Meet Doug >
Doug Baxley
Chief Compliance Officer
Doug Baxley is an accomplished executive leader with over twenty years of experience in the registered investment adviser and broker-dealer industry. Doug currently serves as Chief Compliance Officer of Merit Financial Advisors. Most recently, Doug served as Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Silver Oak Securities, a dually registered RIA and B/D. Prior to this, from 2021 to 2023, Doug served as First Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer at Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, from 2017 to 2019, Doug was Vice President of Retirement and Fiduciary Services at Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services and, from 2006 to 2016, Vice President and chief compliance officer of SSN Advisory. Doug began his financial services career as an advisor with American Express Financial Advisors. Doug is a Certified Regulatory and Compliance Professional; Certified Financial Planner, insurance licensed for life, health, and variable contracts; and holds the FINRA Series 4, 7, 24, 27, 63, and 65 licenses.
Tony DiGirolamo
VP of Technology
Meet Tony >
Tony DiGirolamo
VP of Technology
Tony DiGirolamo is the VP of Technology for Merit, focusing on the day-to-day management, configuration, and improvement of the key technology platforms with Merit. He enjoys building integrations, workflows, and automation that help make Merit's advisors' jobs easier. Tony received his bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his Master's degree from DePaul University. He enjoys spending time watching horror movies with his wife, Lauren, and daughter, Stassi.
Samantha Allen
Executive Vice President, Marketing
Meet Samantha >
Samantha Allen
Executive Vice President, Marketing
Samantha is the Executive Vice President of Marketing at Merit Financial Advisors, where she leads the company’s marketing strategy, brand development, and client engagement initiatives. With over a decade of experience in financial services and marketing leadership, Samantha has established herself as a leader in driving organic growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing client-centric solutions.
In her role at Merit Financial Advisors, Samantha oversees a team responsible for developing integrated digital strategies, optimizing client lifecycle marketing, and executing comprehensive campaigns across both B2B and B2C channels. She is deeply committed to aligning marketing objectives with the company’s strategic goals, ensuring measurable impact and sustainable growth.
Prior to joining Merit, Samantha held senior marketing positions at Carson Group, FiComm Partners and TD Ameritrade. Her expertise spans strategic planning, content creation, event management, and marketing analytics.
Outside of her professional achievements, Samantha is dedicated to mentorship and community engagement. She actively supports initiatives that promote financial literacy and professional development for aspiring leaders in the financial services industry. She is based in Omaha, Nebraska, where she enjoys reading, spending quality time with her family and cheering for the Nebraska Cornhuskers!
Margarite Lynch
Chief Administrative Officer
Mike Mitchell
Chief Financial Officer
Meet Mike >
Mike Mitchell
Chief Financial Officer
Mike's professional background includes over 30 years of experience in corporate finance and operations, mainly within the financial services industry. During his career, he's held progressive leadership positions with Fortune 500 firms, including Toyota, Wachovia Bank, and AT&T, as well as small to medium-sized growth companies. His focus is centered on revenue growth, expense management, margin expansion and boosting bottom-line profitability.
Merit Financial Advisors and LPL Financial are not endorsed by or affiliated with Toyota, Wachovia Bank, and AT&T.
Brian Andrew
Chief Investment Officer, Executive Vice President
Meet Brian >
Brian Andrew
CFA®
Chief Investment Officer | Executive Vice President
Brian Andrew, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer, focuses on managing Merit’s investment strategy and team to provide investment solutions for advisors and their clients. Brian enjoys understanding the economy and markets and helping advisors build investment strategies for their clients. Brian received his B.S. in Finance from the University of Minnesota and completed the CFA®/Harvard Investment Management Program. Brian likes to travel with family, ski, and enjoy motorcycle travel.
Nick Moon
Director of Portfolio Management
Meet Nick >
Nick Moon
CFA®
Director of Portfolio Management
Nick is the Director of Portfolio Management for Merit focusing on providing portfolio management solutions to advisors as well as supporting firm operations and compliance. He enjoys providing in-depth analysis to aid advisors and the firm. Nick received his bachelor’s degree in financial planning from the University of Georgia. He likes to travel and watch UGA football. Go Dawgs!
Jennifer Keegan
VP of Operations
Meet Jennifer >
Jennifer Keegan
Vice President of Operations, Compliance Manager
Jennifer Keegan is the Vice President of Operations and Compliance Manager for Merit focusing on testing and implementing our registered investment advisor and broker-dealer compliance programs. She enjoys all things compliance! And the opportunity to work with each advisor and branch office within the firm. Jen received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Arts in Legal Analysis from Webster University. She likes to go golfing, boating and watch St. Louis Cardinal Baseball games with her husband, John and their son Daniel.
Martina Chisholm
VP of Marketing
Meet Martina >
Martina Chisholm
Vice President of Marketing
Martina Chisholm is the VP of Marketing for Merit, focusing on the planning, development, and execution of all Merit marketing, branding, and advertising initiatives. Martina enjoys creating a memorable digital and in-person experience for existing and potential clients while interacting with the Merit brand. She received her MBA from The University of Maryland – Global Campus. She likes to travel the world, experience different cultures, spend time with her friends and family, and attend all the concerts and sporting events Atlanta offers.
Jim Gaston
Internal Director of Finance
Our Financial Solutions
Financial Planning
We create personalized financial plans that adapt to your life’s twists and turns. By understanding your unique needs, we help you make smart decisions that support your goals now and in the future.
Wealth Management
Our wealth management strategies are all about growing and protecting your assets. We’ll work together to build a plan that makes sense for you, so you can confidently navigate the ups and downs of the market.
Life Transitions
Life is constantly changing, but that doesn't mean your financial goals have to. Whether it’s retirement, divorce, a career change, or widowhood, our team is here, ready to tackle whatever transition you are preparing for or already are experiencing.
Insurance Planning
Life happens—our insurance planning services help protect what matters most. We’ll find the right solutions to safeguard your assets and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
For Businesses
Running your business is both a joy and a challenge that deserves careful planning and guidance. We’ll work closely with you to understand your business’s unique challenges and opportunities and offer customized strategies to address them.
Your Path to
Financial Success
Tailored financial plans that cater to your unique needs and goals
Expert guidance and strategies backed by years of industry experience
Wide range of services, including retirement planning, investment management, and tax planning
Frequently Asked Questions
At Merit Financial Advisors, we specialize in managing complex financial portfolios. Our team of experts uses a comprehensive approach to provide sophisticated solutions tailored to your diverse investment, business, and real estate holdings. We ensure every aspect of your wealth is strategically managed to meet your unique needs.
The Details
Understanding Financial Planning
Financial planning is a comprehensive process that helps set and achieve long-term financial goals. At Merit Financial Advisors, we assess your current financial situation and create tailored strategies for saving, investing, and managing your wealth. Our advisors ensure your plan is aligned with your goals, providing ongoing support and adjustments as needed.
Types of Financial Planning Services We Provide
At Merit Financial Advisors, we offer a comprehensive range of financial planning services designed to meet your unique needs:
- Financial Planning: Comprehensive analysis of your financial health, including budgeting, savings strategies, and debt management to build a strong financial foundation.
- Wealth Management: Personalized investment management to grow and preserve wealth, continuously monitoring and adjusting to optimize performance.
- Estate Planning: Creating wills, trusts, and legal documents to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimize tax liabilities.
- Insurance Planning: Identifying and mitigating financial risks with life, disability, and long-term care insurance to protect you and your family.
- Retirement Planning: Setting retirement goals, estimating future expenses, and creating savings plans to ensure a secure and comfortable retirement.
Why You Need a Financial Advisor
- Expertise: Specialized knowledge in financial planning, investment management, and wealth management.
- Customized Plans: Tailored financial plans to meet your specific needs and goals.
- Access to Financial Products: Wide range of financial products and services, including advanced investment strategies and estate planning tools.
- Ongoing Support: Continuous guidance to keep you on track with your financial goals.
- Commitment to Service: Personalized service and continuous support for achieving and maintaining financial success.
Finding the Right Financial Advisor in Alpharetta
- Certifications: Look for CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or Chartered Financial Analyst® designations.
- Reviews: Check online reviews and client testimonials.
- Experience and Expertise: Evaluate their background and the services they offer.
- Fiduciary Duty: Required to act in the best interests of clients.
- Transparency and Communication: Clear and honest about fees and services.
- Approach: Understand their strategy for financial planning and investment management.
How Financial Advisors Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Financial advisors create customized financial plans tailored to your individual needs and goals. They offer ongoing support and guidance, ensuring your plan adapts to life changes and market fluctuations. At Merit Financial Advisors, we provide comprehensive advice and support to help you achieve financial success. Our team makes informed decisions during significant life events and maintains focus on your long-term goals.
Overview of Merit Financial Advisors
Merit Financial Advisors enriches clients' lives with personalized financial planning and wealth management. Our team includes CFP®s and CFA®s who excel in managing complex portfolios, optimizing taxes, and developing estate plans. We provide detailed, tailored plans addressing all aspects of your financial life, ensuring your success with confidence and clarity.
Merit’s Service Areas Outside of Alpharetta, GA
Our service areas include:
- Johns Creek
- Milton
- Duluth
- Roswell
- Cumming
- Suwanee
Achieve Financial Success with Merit Financial Advisors
Merit provides expertise, personalized planning, and ongoing support to achieve your financial goals. Our services in Alpharetta and surrounding areas include advanced investment management, tax optimization, and estate planning. Partnering with Merit ensures comprehensive financial solutions tailored to your unique needs, guiding you to long-term success with confidence and clarity.