The firm confirmed Jamie Melville and Eli Glotzer will take on leadership roles within its local arm, part of Merchant Investment Management’s broader international operations.
In Merchant’s words, the appointments come as advice firms face a range of challenges, including regulatory reform, succession planning and increasing operating complexity.
It also comes after Merchant Wealth has provided not insignificant capital to Australian advice groups such as WT Financial and Coastal Advice Group, fuelling consolidation and expansion for both.
Melville, appointed managing director and head of Merchant Australia, said the industry is undergoing a period of change.
“The advice industry is at an important point in its development, with firms focused on sustainability, succession and long-term alignment,” he said.
“Merchant’s role is to support firms that want to grow with intention, and keep what they’ve built.”
He joins with more than 30 years’ experience across wealth management, financial advice and banking, including previous roles at Macquarie Group, where he worked in wealth solutions.
Glotzer, also appointed managing director, has more than 20 years’ experience across business banking, structured lending and professional services. His role will include a focus on lending and capital solutions for partner firms.
He previously held senior roles at Macquarie Bank, where he managed portfolios across several industry sectors.
The two executives join Rebecca Wells, who remains principal and chief operating officer, with responsibility for operations and governance across the Australian business.
Merchant operates a partnership model, providing capital and strategic support to advice and wealth management firms.
The company has expanded its global partner network in recent years, working with firms across multiple countries and overseeing significant assets under management.
Managing partner Matt Brinker said the appointments reflect the firm’s continued focus on the Australian market.
“Australia is a critical market for Merchant. Jamie and Eli bring the depth of experience and alignment that firms need as the sector enters its next phase,” he said.
“The most successful advice firms over the decade ahead will be those that grow with discipline and true partnership. Our model is built for that, founder-aligned, not control-driven.”
The appointments are effective immediately and follow continued activity in the Australian advice sector, where firms are increasingly exploring partnerships, mergers and external investment as part of longer-term planning.
