Baird lands $220M Edelman advisor in Arizona expansion push

Baird has added Jesse Wilson, AWM, CFP, as a director and financial advisor to its wealth management office in Chandler, Arizona.

Wilson comes from Edelman Financial Engines, where he managed approximately $220 million in client assets, and brings more than 27 years of industry experience to the employee-owned firm.

The hire is another significant addition to Baird's Chandler location since the office opened in February 2026. That office launched with the arrival of The Cowans Mitchell Group, also from Edelman Financial Engines, who had managed $305 million in assets.

Deepening the Arizona footprint

Wilson's background spans some of the most recognized names in the financial services industry.

Before Edelman Financial Engines, where he served as a director and financial planner, he held roles at USAA, T. Rowe Price, Vanguard, and American Express. He holds a business administration degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and an MBA from Colorado State University.

"His extensive industry expertise and his strong commitment to client success will be a tremendous asset to the team as we continue to provide top-tier wealth management services to the local Chandler community and beyond," said Brandon Moore, branch manager at Baird's Chandler office.

The Chandler hire fits a broader pattern of aggressive talent acquisition by Baird across the country in 2026.

In July, the firm added John McAuley and Mary Weeks Fountain to its North Carolina office from Sterling Capital Management, where the pair had overseen more than $600 million in client assets.

Building on a growing Southwest presence

Arizona has become one of Baird's most active recruiting markets. The Chandler office joins five other private wealth management locations the firm operates across the state, including offices in Phoenix, Scottsdale/Kierland, Peoria (Sun City), and Tucson.

Baird's private wealth management division now oversees more than $372 billion in client assets as of March 31, 2026, and encompasses more than 1,400 financial advisors who average 20 years of industry experience.