Piper Sandler Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Piper Sandler has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, marketing, human capital, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to client success, Piper Sandler is dedicated to providing expert financial advisory and investment banking services, fostering long-term partnerships, and delivering exceptional value across diverse markets.

Leadership Roles at Piper Sandler

  • Chief Executive Officer - Chad Abraham
  • Chief Financial Officer - Sandra Sponem
  • Chief Operating Officer, Investment Banking - Chad Burton
  • Managing Director. Chief Operating Officer, Private Capital Advisory Group. Aviditi Advisors - Scarlet Montilla
  • Chief Operating Officer of Global Equities - James Fehrenbach
  • President - Deb Schoneman
  • Managing Director & Chief Marketing Officer - Ellen Frys
  • Chief Human Capital Officer - Christine Esckilsen
  • Chief Information & Operations Officer - Shawn Quant
  • Chad Abraham - Chief Executive Officer

    Chad Abraham, the Chief Executive Officer at Piper Sandler, directs the firm's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Overseeing all business segments, Abraham ensures alignment with the company's mission to provide comprehensive investment banking and institutional securities services. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives, enhancing market position, and fostering a culture of excellence across the organization. By guiding the executive team, Chad Abraham champions the firm's commitment to serving corporations, private equity groups, public entities, and institutional investors with tailored financial solutions. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to capital raising, advisory services, and maintaining strong client relationships, directly impacting the firm's financial performance and long-term sustainability.
    Chad Abraham

    Sandra Sponem - Chief Financial Officer

    Sandra Sponem, the Chief Financial Officer at Piper Sandler, manages the firm's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing all financial operations, Sponem ensures robust accounting practices, accurate financial reporting, and effective capital allocation. This critical role involves managing investor relations, securing financing, and optimizing the company's balance sheet to support growth objectives. By directing the finance department, Sandra Sponem plays a key part in evaluating investment opportunities and managing financial risks inherent in the investment banking sector. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial models, forecasting market trends, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, thereby safeguarding the firm's financial integrity and supporting its strategic expansion.
    Sandra Sponem

    Chad Burton - Chief Operating Officer, Investment Banking

    Chad Burton, the Chief Operating Officer, Investment Banking at Piper Sandler, spearheads the operational efficiency and strategic execution within the investment banking division. Overseeing the day-to-day operations, Burton ensures seamless service delivery for mergers and acquisitions, equity and debt financings, and advisory services. This leadership position involves optimizing workflows, managing resources, and enhancing the client experience across all investment banking activities. By directing operational teams, Chad Burton supports the firm's ability to raise capital and provide expert guidance to corporations and public entities. The Chief Operating Officer, Investment Banking's focus on operational excellence directly contributes to the division's revenue generation and market competitiveness, ensuring Piper Sandler remains a trusted partner in complex financial transactions.
    Chad Burton

    Scarlet Montilla - Managing Director. Chief Operating Officer, Private Capital Advisory Group. Aviditi Advisors

    Scarlet Montilla, the Managing Director. Chief Operating Officer, Private Capital Advisory Group. Aviditi Advisors at Piper Sandler, directs the operational framework for private capital advisory services. Overseeing the Private Capital Advisory Group, Montilla ensures efficient execution of services related to private equity, debt placements, and alternative asset management. This leadership position focuses on optimizing deal flow, managing client engagements, and enhancing the operational capabilities of the group. By leading these critical functions, Scarlet Montilla supports the firm's expansion into alternative asset management and merchant banking activities. The Managing Director. Chief Operating Officer, Private Capital Advisory Group. Aviditi Advisors' dedication to operational excellence is vital for delivering specialized financial solutions and managing capital from outside investors, reinforcing Piper Sandler's comprehensive service offering.

    James Fehrenbach - Chief Operating Officer of Global Equities

    James Fehrenbach, the Chief Operating Officer of Global Equities at Piper Sandler, manages the operational infrastructure supporting the firm's equity trading and research divisions. Overseeing global equity operations, Fehrenbach ensures the seamless execution of trade orders, efficient settlement processes, and robust risk management protocols. This role is pivotal in maintaining the integrity and performance of the equities business, supporting institutional investors and corporations. By directing operational teams, James Fehrenbach enhances the firm's capacity to provide timely and accurate equity market insights and execution services. The Chief Operating Officer of Global Equities' focus on operational efficiency and technological advancement is essential for navigating complex global markets and delivering superior service to clients worldwide.
    James Fehrenbach

    Deb Schoneman - President

    Deb Schoneman, the President at Piper Sandler, holds a significant leadership position overseeing key strategic initiatives and business development efforts. As President, Schoneman drives the firm's expansion across various market sectors, ensuring cohesive strategy implementation and operational synergy. This role involves close collaboration with the Chief Executive Officer and other senior leaders to identify new opportunities and strengthen existing client relationships. By championing strategic growth, Deb Schoneman contributes directly to Piper Sandler's market leadership in investment banking and institutional securities. The President's focus on driving business performance and fostering innovation is essential for navigating the dynamic financial landscape and achieving sustained success for the firm.
    Deb Schoneman

    Ellen Frys - Managing Director & Chief Marketing Officer

    Ellen Frys, the Managing Director & Chief Marketing Officer at Piper Sandler, drives the firm's brand strategy and market outreach initiatives. Overseeing all marketing and communications efforts, Frys ensures consistent messaging and enhances the company's visibility across its target markets. This role involves developing and executing comprehensive marketing campaigns, managing digital presence, and fostering strong relationships with media and industry influencers. By leading the marketing department, Ellen Frys supports business development objectives and strengthens Piper Sandler's reputation as a leading investment bank. The Managing Director & Chief Marketing Officer's strategic direction is crucial for attracting new clients and retaining existing ones, directly contributing to the firm's growth and market penetration.

    Christine Esckilsen - Chief Human Capital Officer

    Christine Esckilsen, the Chief Human Capital Officer at Piper Sandler, leads the strategic development and execution of human resources initiatives. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture, Esckilsen ensures Piper Sandler attracts and retains top talent. This role is crucial for fostering a productive and engaging work environment that supports the firm's growth objectives. By directing human capital strategies, Christine Esckilsen aligns workforce planning with business needs, implements competitive compensation and benefits programs, and champions diversity and inclusion efforts. The Chief Human Capital Officer's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth is fundamental to maintaining a high-performing team and reinforcing the firm's strong corporate values.
    Christine Esckilsen

    Shawn Quant - Chief Information & Operations Officer

    Shawn Quant, the Chief Information & Operations Officer at Piper Sandler, directs the firm's technology strategy and operational infrastructure. Overseeing information systems and operational processes, Quant ensures the delivery of secure, efficient, and scalable technology solutions that support business objectives. This leadership role involves managing IT infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, and operational workflows to enhance productivity and client service. By leading technology and operations, Shawn Quant plays a vital part in modernizing the firm's systems and driving digital transformation. The Chief Information & Operations Officer's expertise is critical for maintaining operational resilience, implementing innovative technological advancements, and safeguarding sensitive client data across the organization.
    Shawn Quant

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Piper Sandler Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Piper Sandler?
    Piper Sandler is led by Chad Abraham (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sandra Sponem (Chief Financial Officer) and Chad Burton (Chief Operating Officer, Investment Banking).
    Who is part of Piper Sandler’s executive team?
    The executive team of Piper Sandler includes leaders such as Chad Abraham (Chief Executive Officer), Sandra Sponem (Chief Financial Officer), Chad Burton (Chief Operating Officer, Investment Banking) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Piper Sandler have?
    Piper Sandler has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Piper Sandler’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Piper Sandler includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Investment Banking, Managing Director. Chief Operating Officer, Private Capital Advisory Group. Aviditi Advisors, Chief Operating Officer of Global Equities.