Merit Sets January CEO Handoff as Firm Tops $32 Billion

Merit Financial Advisors named President Kay Lynn Mayhue its next chief executive, with the change taking effect Jan. 1, 2027. Founder and current CEO Rick Kent will become executive chairman, and Zach Mersberger will take over as president.

The Atlanta-based wealth manager said the handoff follows nearly a decade of close work between Kent and Mayhue. She joined Merit in 2017 and helped guide its growth from about $2 billion in assets to nearly $33 billion, according to the company.

Merit reported more than $32 billion in assets under management and advisement as of Sept. 12. It also had over 500 employees and more than 70 offices, reflecting the scale of the organization Mayhue will lead.

The firm’s growth has relied heavily on acquisitions. Merit has completed more than 62 deals, and Mayhue told InvestmentNews it expects 15 acquisitions this year, after 12 in 2025.

Kent will remain active, focusing on long-term strategy, organic growth, culture and leadership development. The move gives Mayhue day-to-day leadership while retaining the founder’s involvement in the firm’s direction.

Mersberger, whose advisory practice joined Merit about four years ago, will focus on carrying out company strategy across its offices and teams. The appointments also advance leaders who came into Merit through acquisitions, a path the company says can create opportunities across its growing organization.

Other executives are gaining wider roles. Chief Investment Officer Brian Andrew will also become chief strategy officer, while Chief Operating Officer Chrissy Lee adds the title of chief enterprise officer; Alex Hansen will expand his work on advisor success, organic growth and wealth solutions.

Mayhue has said she plans to continue the firm’s existing vision, while strengthening support for advisors and clients as Merit grows. The next test will be whether its expanding leadership team can integrate new acquisitions and maintain consistent service across a much larger network.