Wells Fargo Advisors Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Wells Fargo Advisors has 4 executives leading key functions including operations, investment strategy, and client advisory.

Driven by a strong and abiding commitment to service, Wells Fargo Advisors helps investors nationwide succeed financially with investment planning and advice designed to achieve life needs and financial goals.

Leadership Roles at Wells Fargo Advisors

  • Chief Operating Officer, Profit Formula - James Botte
  • President, Wells Investment Institute (Fargo) - Darrell Cronk
  • Vice-President---Investment Officer - Steven Wetzel
  • President & Investment Officer - Dale Herndon
  • James Botte - Chief Operating Officer, Profit Formula

    James Botte, the Chief Operating Officer, Profit Formula at Wells Fargo Advisors, directs the operational framework supporting the firm's financial services. Botte oversees the efficiency and scalability of internal processes, ensuring alignment with the company's profit objectives. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation and driving operational improvements across various departments. By focusing on streamlined workflows and effective management of resources, James Botte enhances the firm's capacity to deliver premier financial services nationwide. The Chief Operating Officer, Profit Formula's responsibilities extend to managing the execution of strategic initiatives that bolster financial performance and client satisfaction. Botte's strategic oversight ensures that operational activities directly contribute to the firm's overarching mission of helping clients achieve their life needs and financial goals through expert investment planning and advice.
    James Botte

    Darrell Cronk - President, Wells Investment Institute (Fargo)

    Darrell Cronk, the President, Wells Investment Institute (Fargo) at Wells Fargo Advisors, leads the strategic direction and research arm of the firm's investment insights. Cronk guides the development of market analysis and investment strategies that inform client advisory services. This executive position involves fostering innovation within the Wells Investment Institute to provide cutting-edge financial guidance. By championing rigorous research and forward-thinking perspectives, Darrell Cronk ensures the firm remains at the forefront of investment advisory. The President, Wells Investment Institute (Fargo)'s influence extends to shaping the firm's thought leadership and enhancing its reputation for expert financial advice. Cronk's leadership directly supports Wells Fargo Advisors' commitment to helping clients succeed financially by providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve their life goals.

    Steven Wetzel - Vice-President---Investment Officer

    Steven Wetzel, the Vice-President---Investment Officer at Wells Fargo Advisors, manages key investment portfolios and client relationships. Wetzel directs the execution of investment strategies tailored to individual client objectives and market conditions. This leadership role focuses on delivering personalized financial advice and ensuring optimal portfolio performance. By cultivating strong client partnerships and providing expert guidance, Steven Wetzel reinforces the firm's dedication to client success. The Vice-President---Investment Officer's responsibilities include overseeing investment activities and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Wetzel's expertise is crucial in helping clients navigate complex financial landscapes and achieve their long-term financial goals through strategic investment planning.

    Dale Herndon - President & Investment Officer

    Dale Herndon, the President & Investment Officer at Wells Fargo Advisors, drives the firm's overall strategic vision and investment management. Herndon leads initiatives to expand market reach and enhance service offerings for investors nationwide. This executive role involves overseeing both the strategic growth of the firm and the direct management of significant investment operations. By fostering a client-centric approach and promoting operational excellence, Dale Herndon ensures the delivery of premier financial services. The President & Investment Officer's purview includes guiding the firm's commitment to helping clients achieve their life needs and financial goals through comprehensive investment planning and advice. Herndon's leadership is pivotal in maintaining Wells Fargo Advisors' reputation for integrity and client success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wells Fargo Advisors Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Wells Fargo Advisors?
    Wells Fargo Advisors is led by James Botte (Chief Operating Officer, Profit Formula), along with executives such as Darrell Cronk (President, Wells Investment Institute (Fargo)) and Steven Wetzel (Vice-President---Investment Officer).
    Who is part of Wells Fargo Advisors’s executive team?
    The executive team of Wells Fargo Advisors includes leaders such as James Botte (Chief Operating Officer, Profit Formula), Darrell Cronk (President, Wells Investment Institute (Fargo)), Steven Wetzel (Vice-President---Investment Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Wells Fargo Advisors have?
    Wells Fargo Advisors has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Wells Fargo Advisors’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Wells Fargo Advisors includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Profit Formula, President, Wells Investment Institute (Fargo), Vice-President---Investment Officer, President & Investment Officer.