The addition of Cepeda, who has spent the past 26 years as a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch, comes after a growth capital investment from private equity fund Estancia Capital Partners in November .

The profits from Estancia’s investment were also put towards the hiring of vice presidents in New York, Connecticut and other target markets.

Cepeda’s appointment signifies a positive step for Snowden’s aim for growth across the country, and he will also serve as a private wealth advisor at the Pasadena branch.

Snowden, with its headquarters in New York City, operates an SEC-registered investment advisor and affiliated broker-dealer.