Merit Financial Advisors has appointed John Rajes as chief technology officer (CTO), adding a new senior executive as the firm expands its leadership structure.
Rajes will lead the company’s technology strategy across architecture, systems integration, data and AI, with responsibility for efforts to create a more consistent digital environment for advisors and staff.
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Rajes has previously worked in senior roles at LPL Financial, UBS, Barclays and Goldman Sachs.
Most recently, he ran an independent consulting practice.
While at LPL Financial, where he served as head of strategic partnerships, he oversaw a fintech partner network of around 90 providers and managed investment product relationships involving asset managers, insurance companies and separately managed account providers.
At Merit, one of his initial tasks will be to set out a technology roadmap aimed at improving integration, scale and simplicity.
This includes linking data and functions across the firm’s existing technology systems so advisors spend less time switching between platforms.
The new role is also intended to separate responsibilities within the firm’s technology and product operations.
Rajes will oversee technology strategy, infrastructure and execution, while chief product officer Brian Green remains focused on product strategy and development. Both report to Lee.
Merit said advisors will be involved during the development of new technology initiatives, with feedback gathered as projects are designed rather than after completion.
Rajes is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and will also spend substantial time at the firm’s headquarters in Alpharetta, Georgia.
The move follows Merit’s acquisition of the $900m Bridgeway Group in Southern California.
The appointment comes alongside other recent management changes at Merit.
Earlier this year, the firm named Doug Moore as chief financial officer and appointed Sarah Mouser as executive vice president of financial planning. It also added Alex Hansen as chief advisor success officer.
The firm has more than $30.1bn in assets and operates through over 55 offices nationwide.
It has completed 61 acquisitions so far, including nine partnerships in 2026.
