The Berthel Fisher Companies, which includes a broker-dealer, an RIA, and an insurance arm, today announced several executive changes, including co-founder Tim Berthel stepping down from some of his roles.
The moves are part of the firm’s long-term expansion plans, according to the firm, which is based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Andrew Christofferson has been appointed president and CEO of Berthel Fisher’s RIA, two broker-dealers and insurance agency subsidiaries. He is taking on those duties from Tim Berthel, who will continue to act as president, CEO and chairman of the holding company while now focusing his efforts on capitalization and strategic initiatives, the firm said. Christofferson previously served as chief operating officer.
Paige Swartzendruber has been appointed chief business development officer of the subsidiaries; Brian Rupp has been appointed treasurer and chief financial officer of the subsidiaries; and Joanna Schaul has been appointed chief administrative officer for the subsidiaries.
Swartzendruber previously was a registered representative, financial planner and vice president of advisor relationships and strategy consulting at Berthel Fisher. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of business development and director for Berthel Fisher subsidiaries.
Rupp was vice president, controller, treasurer and director for Berthel Fisher.
Schaul was senior vice president of administration and secretary for Berthel Fisher subsidiaries.
“These moves have been in the works for some time, so I’m proud that this day has finally come and relieved that our financial professionals will be in great hands going forward. Not only are these leaders uniquely prepared for their new responsibilities, but the appointments enable me to accelerate Berthel Fisher’s long-term growth plans while giving me the opportunity to closely collaborate with the senior leadership team going forward, Tim Berthel said in a statement.
Berthel Fisher, founded in 1985, has become a diversified financial services firm with more than 360 financial professionals who oversee approximately $9.8 billion in assets under advisement. The firm provides a wide range of traditional and alternative investments, income solutions and portfolio strategies, as well as holistic planning services for financial professionals and their clients.