Coldstream Expands Leadership Team to Enhance Client Engagements and Firm's Growth Strategy

Coldstream Expands Leadership Team to Enhance Client Engagements and Growth Strategy

Coldstream, an employee-owned financial services firm based in Bellevue, Washington, has taken a significant step in its organizational development by announcing the appointment of Megan Hannah as the new Chief Client Experience Officer and Ian Curtiss as the leader of the Wealth Strategy Group. The strategic decisions mark a pivotal growth phase for the firm, reflecting its commitment to enhancing client experiences and further developing its leadership capabilities.

With over 25 years of experience in the financial sector, Hannah's expertise will play a crucial role in shaping Coldstream's client experience strategy. Hannah, known for her operational acumen and client-centric approach, expressed her admiration for Coldstream's client-first culture, highlighting her excitement for the opportunity. She joins from Emerald Advisors, where she served as Chief Operating Officer and Portfolio Manager. Her previous experience at BlackRock, particularly in investment research and leadership roles, equips her with the insights necessary to elevate Coldstream's service offerings.

As Coldstream continues its trajectory of growth, it recognizes the importance of investing in leadership and operational infrastructure. According to Kevin Fitzwilson, Coldstream's CEO, the appointments are part of a broader strategy to ensure that the firm maintains its high standards of client service while expanding its capabilities.

In tandem with Hannah’s appointment, Ian Curtiss, who joined Coldstream in 2021, is stepping up to lead the Wealth Strategy Group. His promotion comes as the firm emphasizes the development of integrated client services that encompass financial planning, advanced investment strategies, and personalized advice.

Curtiss's journey at Coldstream has been marked by close collaboration with Anne Marie Stonich, the previous head of the Wealth Strategy Group, and his transition into this leadership role signifies Coldstream’s commitment to nurturing talent from within. Stonich will continue to play a critical role as Co-Chief Client Experience Officer alongside Hannah through the end of 2026 and as she transitions to focus on enhancing Coldstream's footprint in Bend, Oregon.

“I'm excited to work together with Megan and Ian,” Stonich remarked. “This expansion demonstrates our dedication to developing a more robust leadership framework that caters to our clients' nuanced needs and responds to the evolving financial landscape.
Coldstream's growth narrative has seen the firm nearly triple its size since 2021, culminating in over $15 billion in total client assets as of March 2026. This expansion underscores the firm's resilient employee-owned structure, which distinguishes it in a competitive market often reliant on external capital. The newly appointed leaders recognize the unique challenges and opportunities ahead.

With Hannah steering the client experience strategy, the focus will be on providing a seamless customer journey across financial planning, wealth management, and investment advice, ensuring that client needs remain at the forefront of Coldstream’s services. Curtiss, equipped with multiple certifications, including CFA and CFP, is well-positioned to lead the Wealth Strategy Group as it enhances its capabilities to serve complex client needs.

Together, these leadership appointments are not merely administrative changes but position Coldstream for sustained growth while embodying its core values—relationships and personalized financial service. The firm’s ability to pivot and adapt to market demands, coupled with a strong client-first ethos, positions it uniquely for future success.

In conclusion, Coldstream's proactive measures in enhancing its leadership underscores its commitment to providing unmatched client experiences as it continues to grow. Megan Hannah and Ian Curtiss are set to lead the charge into this next exciting phase for the firm, ensuring that Coldstream remains a trusted partner in navigating the challenges and opportunities of the financial landscape.