Summitry, a San Francisco Bay Area registered investment advisor , has appointed Summitry president Alex Katz and chief operating officer Conor Wilkes as co-CEOs. They are succeeding Colin Higgins who, after 22 years of leadership, is transitioning into the role of executive-chairman.
Alex Katz and Conor Wilkes
Higgins will continue to provide guidance and leadership as the firm continues to grow. He will also work with Summitry’s parent company, Aspen Standard Wealth, on important areas such as supporting new RIA partnerships, identifying and nurturing advisor talent, and expanding AI-enabled service capabilities.
The move comes after Aspen Standard Wealth, a New York-based RIA aggregator, acquired Summitry in November 2024. It also follows Summitry's acquisition of California-based Vantage Wealth earlier this year, an RIA with $721 million in assets under management.
“It is difficult to overstate Colin’s impact on our firm. Over more than two decades, he helped build Summitry into what it is today: a firm grounded in care, integrity, and a deep commitment to helping clients live their best Bay Area lives. While his role is evolving, his perspective, values, and influence will remain a meaningful part of our future,” said Katz and Wilkes.
As co-CEO, Katz will identify and service new clients, lead investment and financial planning offerings, and undertake continuous growth strategies, the firm said in a statement. Wilkes will manage operations to help ensure that the firm consistently delivers a top-tier client experience.
"It's an incredible privilege to step into this role alongside Conor and build on the foundation Colin has created over the last 22 years,” Katz continued.
“As we continue to grow, we'll remain focused on strengthening the systems, technology, and operational excellence that allow our advisors to spend more time doing what they do best … serving clients," added Wilkes.
Founded in 2003, Summitry manages about $4 billion in assets and provides personalized financial planning and investment strategies rooted in local insights. The firm offers access to a range of institutional-grade investing and advisory services, including financial planning, retirement planning, estate and trust services, and equity compensation advice.
"Colin has built an exceptional firm with a culture that prioritizes clients, collaboration, and long-term stewardship, and we're grateful that he'll continue to play an important strategic role for both Summitry and Aspen," said Aly Kassim-Lakha, CEO of Aspen Standard Wealth. "Alex and Conor are outstanding leaders who have earned the trust of their colleagues and clients through their vision, integrity, and execution. Their complementary strengths position Summitry to build on its remarkable success while continuing to deliver the personalized advice and exceptional client experience that have defined the firm for more than two decades."
Summitry offers personalized financial planning and investment strategies, rooted in local insight.