MAI Capital Management appointed Matt Barthel as Managing Partner, Strategic Advisor Recruiting, adding a veteran industry executive to help expand the firm’s national financial advisor network.
Barthel will lead inorganic business development initiatives focused on identifying and recruiting advisor teams across the United States.
His role will include working with MAI’s Business Development team to support strategic growth in key markets, with a particular focus on advisor lift-outs.
Barthel brings nearly 35 years of journalism experience and approximately 20 years of experience in wealth management data operations.
He previously held roles at Barron’s, where he oversaw the publication’s financial advisor rankings.
MAI said Barthel’s experience gives him relationships across registered investment advisors, wirehouse advisors, and sports-focused financial advisors.
The appointment comes as MAI continues its nationwide expansion following Carlyle’s majority investment in the firm.
MAI said attracting high-quality financial advisors remains a major strategic priority as it expands its presence and capabilities across the U.S.
Barthel will report directly to Managing Partner Jim Kacic.
His responsibilities will include helping MAI identify advisor teams that align with the firm’s client-first culture and expanding the firm’s advisor network into new markets and specialties.
Barthel joined MAI effective October 12, 2026.
MAI was founded in 1973 and operates as a registered investment adviser and wealth management firm.
The firm has 42 offices across the United States and employs more than 700 people.
As of June 30, 2026, MAI reported nearly $80.4 billion in total assets, including $73.8 billion in assets under management and $6.6 billion in assets under advisement.
KEY QUOTES:
“One of our biggest initiatives is to attract the best and brightest financial advisors and bring them on board to broaden our reach in the marketplace. Cultural fit isn’t just a priority for us, it’s non-negotiable because the strength and future of the firm are tied to our full team reflecting MAI’s shared set of values. Matt is a ‘triple threat’ with deep ties to RIAs and wirehouse and sports-focused advisors. His expertise and relationships across the financial advisor landscape will play a major role in our efforts to expand our advisor network in new areas and specialties to those who reflect our emphasis on catering to the needs of those we are fortunate to serve.”
Rick Buoncore, Chairman and CEO of MAI Capital Management
“I’ve enjoyed watching MAI’s ascension as a fast-growing and respected RIA, and I’m excited for the opportunity to play a key role in driving that growth. I’m looking forward to working with the team and helping leading advisors in the industry find a place where they are supported with the resources, expertise and environment they need to thrive and to serve their clients in a holistic way.”
Matt Barthel, Managing Partner, Strategic Advisor Recruiting at MAI Capital Management
