Mark Thompson Takes the Helm at Cresset as Executive Managing Director of Institutional Consulting

Cresset Welcomes Mark Thompson as Executive Managing Director of Institutional Consulting

Cresset has recently made headlines with the announcement of Mark Thompson's appointment as Executive Managing Director of Institutional Consulting. Bringing over 15 years of experience in the financial services sector, Thompson has spent the last eight years concentrating on developing and managing institutional consulting firms. His appointment marks a significant step for Cresset as it aims to enhance its engagement with a broader range of institutional clients, including foundations, endowments, and nonprofit organizations.

Thompson’s primary focus in his new role will be to oversee Cresset’s Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) business and its overall strategy. By forming strong partnerships with clients, Thompson intends to deliver customized investment solutions that adhere to institutional best practices, thus ensuring optimal investment outcomes for Cresset's clients. His extensive background will help bridge the gap between institutional and private wealth client segments, which is essential in creating a more integrated service offering.

Having spent most of his career in wealth management, Thompson previously led Morgan Stanley's Fiduciary Consulting Group, a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) that primarily served institutional clients. Under his leadership, this group grew substantially, achieving $200 billion in assets by 2025, gaining recognition as one of the industry's top performers. This impressive record signifies Thompson’s ability to foster client relationships and drive business growth, attributes that Cresset is eager to harness in their endeavor to bolster their institutional consulting practice.

Cresset has undergone significant transformation in recent years, notably through its strategic combination with Monticello Associates—an esteemed investment consulting firm providing advisory services to family offices and foundations. This merger has augmented Cresset’s assets under management to over $235 billion, allowing the firm to access leading fund managers in both public and private markets, and further strengthening its service offerings.

Susie Cranston, President of Cresset, expressed enthusiasm about Thompson joining the firm, asserting that his capabilities complement the company’s recent strategic initiatives and will enhance its reputation within the institutional landscape. “We are thrilled to welcome Mark to Cresset,” Cranston noted. “His expertise will help drive our commitment to provide comprehensive and tailored investment solutions.”

Thompson is enthusiastic about contributing to Cresset’s legacy, stating, “Cresset has established itself as a trusted partner to ultra-high-net-worth families and institutions through a unique combination of services and commitment to long-term success.” He aims to leverage his experience to further consolidate Cresset's strong standing in the industry.

Thompson holds a bachelor's degree in economics and art history from the College of the Holy Cross, alongside an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. His educational background complements his extensive professional expertise, making him well-suited to advance Cresset’s institutional consulting efforts.

Cresset prides itself on being an independent, award-winning multi-family office and private investment firm built for clients, by clients. With a commitment to optimizing both wealth and life, Cresset continues to pave the way for innovative client experiences, drawing on its dedication to personalized service, visionary planning, and a long-term investment philosophy. As Mark Thompson steps into this key leadership role, clients and stakeholders alike can anticipate a new chapter of growth and excellence for Cresset’s Institutional Consulting division.