Independent Financial Group is pushing forward with its expansion blueprint by elevating two of its business development leaders.
The firm has announced that Chad Cristo will take on the role of head of Business Development for the West region, while Kelsey Hasterlik, CFP, has been promoted to Regional Business Development for the Mountain region.
These moves come on the heels of recent leadership additions, including Steven Gensler as senior vice president of Advisor Growth and Development and Bruce Levitus as regional business development for the East region.
“Both Chad and Kelsey bring tremendous experience, relationships and leadership to their new roles,” said David Fischer, IFG co-founder and chief marketing officer, who recently discussed with InvestmentNews the unique opportunity that remaining independent offers to build a successful firm. “Chad is highly respected across the industry, with a 30-year track record of building strong relationships and driving advisor growth while Kelsey has spent her career helping advisors expand efficiency, optimize outcomes and integrate advanced product solutions.”
Cristo, who joined IFG in 2022 as senior vice president of National Sales and Marketing, will now direct advisor recruitment across the Western US, reporting to Fischer.
“I am honored to take on this new role and excited to build on IFG’s already strong presence and momentum in the West,” says Cristo. “Recruiting accomplished, independent-minded advisors is central to our growth strategy, and I look forward to sharing IFG’s culture of independence, autonomy and community with more professionals across the region.”
Hasterlik, with the firm since 2018, brings 15 years of experience spanning advisor consulting, asset management, and alternative investments. She previously served as senior regional advisor consultant and product strategist. In her expanded role, she will lead business development efforts in the Mountain region, also reporting to Fischer.
“I’m thrilled to continue working alongside our advisors in the Mountain Region and to deepen IFG’s presence in this key market,” Hasterlik said. “Our culture is truly unique, and I look forward to helping more advisors experience the independence and support that sets IFG apart.”
Earlier this year, IFG tapped independent broker-dealer veteran Kevin Keefe as president and chief operating officer.
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