Focus eyes fiduciary advice leadership with key C-suite hires

Building on the success of its aggressive hub merger strategy, Focus Financial has announced the addition of four key executives to its C-suite leadership.

In a statement Monday, the firm said its latest appointments, which include pedigreed leaders with history at Apollo Global Management, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley, are intended to enhance operational efficiency and support the firm’s strategic growth objectives.

"We are excited to welcome these key leaders to the Focus executive team,” said Michael Nathanson, who was named CEO of Focus at the end of April.

“Their expertise aligns perfectly with our vision and will help drive the rapid progress we are making toward becoming the leading fiduciary advice platform in the industry," Nathanson said in the Monday announcement.

Focus’s new COO, David Lang will apply his experience in business transformation and risk management to focus on optimizing its operational efficiency and strategic corporate functions. He joins from Apollo Global Management, where he was a Partner and COO of Enterprise Solutions, and previously held a similar role at Goldman Sachs.

Kathleen Alcorn, the new chief marketing and communications officer will oversee brand, marketing, and corporate communications to ensure alignment with Focus’ long-term strategy. She transitions from her role as chief marketing officer at Connectus Wealth Advisers, a partner firm of Focus.

Meanwhile, Lawrence Frers, Focus’s newly appointed chief human resources officer will manage the firm’s people-related strategy. He comes to Focus with over two decades of experience at Morgan Stanley, where he most recently led human resources for its wealth management division.

Finally, Molly Bennard is taking on the role of president, international operations, where she will lead the international growth strategy and manage operations of Focus’ international partners. She brings over nine years of experience within the Focus family, having recently served as CEO of Connectus Wealth Advisers.

"Dave, Kathleen, Larry, and Molly are well-respected leaders who are making immediate contributions to our team," Nathanson said. "I’m extremely optimistic for our future, and I look forward to working alongside each of these exceptional professionals."

The firm is building up its C-suite in the aftermath of a rash of intra-network consolidations. That strategy, aimed at creating wealth hubs to boost efficiencies within Focus’s enterprise, included a move in April to assimilate InterOcean Capital Group into Colony Group, which Nathanson also leads as CEO.