Merrill Executive and Leadership Team

Evonne Wagner, the Chief Financial Officer at Merrill, directs the company's comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal operations. This leadership role involves managing all aspects of financial planning, analysis, and reporting, ensuring robust fiscal health and sustainable growth. Wagner oversees the allocation of capital, drives cost-efficiency initiatives, and guides investment decisions to align with Merrill's long-term objectives. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to maintaining strong relationships with investors and financial institutions, providing critical insights into market trends and economic conditions. By meticulously analyzing financial data, Evonne Wagner ensures that all fiscal activities support the company's mission of empowering clients through expert wealth management and integrated banking solutions. This strategic financial oversight is crucial for navigating the complex financial landscape and maximizing shareholder value.

Squiddly Dot, the Chief Financial Officer, Northeast at Merrill, directs financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the Northeast region. This executive role involves overseeing all financial activities, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis, tailored to the specific market dynamics of the Northeast. Squiddly Dot ensures that regional financial performance aligns with overarching company goals and regulatory requirements. The Chief Financial Officer, Northeast is responsible for managing financial risks, optimizing resource allocation, and identifying opportunities for revenue enhancement within the region. By providing expert financial guidance, Squiddly Dot supports the growth and profitability of Merrill's operations in this key geographic area, reinforcing the firm's commitment to client success through sound financial management.

Richard Conerty, the Chief Financial Officer & Analyst at Merrill, provides critical financial leadership and analytical insights to guide the company's fiscal strategy. This role combines high-level financial oversight with in-depth analytical capabilities to assess market conditions and investment opportunities. Conerty directs the financial planning, budgeting, and reporting processes, ensuring fiscal discipline and strategic resource allocation. As an analyst, Richard Conerty evaluates financial performance, identifies key trends, and develops data-driven recommendations to support executive decision-making. His expertise is crucial for maintaining Merrill's financial stability and driving profitable growth, ensuring that all financial activities align with the firm's commitment to client success and its integrated approach with Bank of America.

Craigus Johnson, the Chief Operations Officer & Division Chief Financial Officer, Strategy at Merrill, directs both operational execution and financial strategy for a key division. This multifaceted role ensures seamless integration between operational efficiency and strategic financial planning. Johnson oversees the day-to-day operations of the division, focusing on optimizing processes and resource management to achieve strategic objectives. Concurrently, Craigus Johnson leads the financial strategy, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment analysis, to support the division's growth and profitability. This combined leadership ensures that operational initiatives are financially sound and strategically aligned, driving value for clients and the firm. The focus on strategy underscores a commitment to forward-thinking financial and operational management.

Michael Scherrer, the Director - Regulatory Reform Chief Operating Officer Team at Merrill, spearheads critical initiatives focused on adapting operational frameworks to evolving regulatory landscapes. This position demands a deep understanding of compliance requirements and their impact on business processes. Scherrer directs the implementation of new policies and procedures designed to ensure adherence to all relevant financial regulations, safeguarding the firm and its clients. The role involves close collaboration with legal, compliance, and operational teams to identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies. Michael Scherrer's oversight ensures that Merrill's operational model remains resilient and compliant, supporting the firm's commitment to placing client interests first. This strategic focus on regulatory reform is essential for maintaining trust and operational integrity within the finance industry.

Grace Donlon, the Director - MLWM Chief Operating Officer Field Capacity Business Strategy and Initiatives at Merrill, drives strategic planning and operational enhancements across the wealth management field force. This role focuses on optimizing business strategy and initiatives to bolster field capacity and efficiency. Donlon analyzes market dynamics and client needs to develop actionable plans that empower financial advisors. Her responsibilities include identifying opportunities for process improvement, technology adoption, and resource allocation to enhance advisor productivity and client service delivery. Grace Donlon works to ensure that the operational infrastructure effectively supports the firm's growth objectives and its core mission of client-centric financial guidance. The strategic initiatives spearheaded by Donlon are vital for maintaining Merrill's competitive edge in wealth management.

Paula Smith, the Director, Chief Operating Officer Group at Merrill, oversees critical operational functions that support the firm's extensive client services and business development efforts. This leadership position involves managing a diverse portfolio of operational activities designed to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across various departments. Smith directs the execution of strategic projects aimed at streamlining processes, improving resource utilization, and ensuring seamless service delivery. Her focus is on maintaining high standards of operational excellence that align with Merrill's commitment to client success and its integration with Bank of America's banking solutions. Paula Smith's role is instrumental in ensuring that the operational backbone of the company robustly supports financial advisors in meeting the complex needs of their clients, from investment management to estate planning.

Gordana Warga, the Chief Operating Officer for The Gsell Group at Merrill, manages the operational strategy and execution for this specialized business unit. Warga directs all aspects of daily operations, focusing on enhancing efficiency, productivity, and service quality. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of the group's specific market niche and client needs, ensuring that operational frameworks are optimized for success. Gordana Warga oversees process improvements, resource management, and the implementation of strategic initiatives designed to support The Gsell Group's objectives. By ensuring seamless operational flow, Warga contributes directly to the group's ability to deliver tailored financial solutions and maintain its strong client relationships, upholding Merrill's core values.

George Castellano, the Division Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director at Merrill, leads operational strategy and execution across a significant division of the company. This dual role encompasses both high-level strategic oversight and direct management of operational activities to drive business performance. Castellano directs initiatives aimed at optimizing efficiency, enhancing client service delivery, and ensuring robust risk management frameworks are in place. His responsibilities include fostering collaboration among various teams and departments to achieve divisional goals. George Castellano's leadership ensures that the division operates with maximum effectiveness, supporting Merrill's broader mission of providing comprehensive financial advice and solutions. The Managing Director aspect of the title highlights a key leadership presence in driving market engagement and strategic growth.

Reshma P., the Director, Chief Operating Officer Group, Investment Products at Merrill, oversees the operational aspects of the firm's investment product offerings. This critical role focuses on ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of investment solutions to clients. Reshma P. directs initiatives to streamline the development, management, and distribution of investment products, aligning operational processes with market demands and regulatory standards. Her responsibilities include enhancing product accessibility, managing operational risks associated with investment portfolios, and collaborating with product development teams. By optimizing the operational framework for investment products, Reshma P. supports financial advisors in providing clients with a comprehensive suite of wealth management tools, reinforcing Merrill's commitment to client-centric financial planning.