Summitry announced that Alex Katz and Conor Wilkes have been appointed Co-CEOs of the Bay Area registered investment advisor. Katz previously served as President of Summitry, while Wilkes served as Chief Operating Officer. They succeed Colin Higgins, who is transitioning into the role of Executive Chairman after 22 years of leadership.
As Executive Chairman, Higgins will continue providing strategic guidance and cultural leadership as Summitry continues to grow. He will also work closely with Summitry’s parent company, Aspen Standard Wealth, on strategic priorities including new RIA partnerships, advisor talent development, and the expansion of AI-enabled service capabilities.
As Co-CEO, Katz will focus on identifying and servicing new clients, leading the firm’s investment and financial planning offerings, and supporting continued growth strategies. Wilkes will focus on operations and ensuring that Summitry continues delivering a high-quality client experience.
Founded in 2003, Summitry manages approximately $4 billion in assets. The firm provides personalized financial planning and investment strategies rooted in local insight, serving clients across the Bay Area.
Summitry offers a wide range of institutional-grade investing and advisory services. These include in-depth financial planning, retirement planning, estate and trust planning, California tax strategies, charitable gift planning, fiduciary support, equity compensation and benefits advice for executives, asset management, and customized investment strategies.
The leadership transition is intended to help Summitry build on the foundation established under Higgins while continuing to scale its advisory capabilities. Katz and Wilkes bring complementary strengths across client service, growth, investments, planning, operations, technology, and firm management.
Aspen Standard Wealth said Higgins built a strong culture centered on clients, collaboration, and long-term stewardship. The company also said Katz and Wilkes have earned trust through their vision, integrity, and execution.
Summitry said its broader goal is to become one of the most admired wealth management firms in its market and one of the most admired workplaces for its team. The firm plans to continue investing in talent, technology, operational excellence, and personalized advice as it enters its next chapter.
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“It is difficult to overstate Colin’s impact on our firm. Over more than two decades, he helped build Summitry into what it is today: a firm grounded in care, integrity, and a deep commitment to helping clients live their best Bay Area lives. While his role is evolving, his perspective, values, and influence will remain a meaningful part of our future.”
Alex Katz and Conor Wilkes, Co-CEOs of Summitry
“It’s an incredible privilege to step into this role alongside Conor and build on the foundation Colin has created over the last 22 years. Summitry has always been defined by exceptional relationships with our clients, our people, and the communities we serve. As we look ahead, we’ll continue investing in the talent, capabilities, and advice that help our clients navigate life’s most important financial decisions with confidence, while preserving the personalized experience that has always set Summitry apart.”
Alex Katz, Co-CEO of Summitry
“Summitry’s success has always come from pairing thoughtful advice with an outstanding client experience, and I’m excited to help lead our next chapter. As we continue to grow, we’ll remain focused on strengthening the systems, technology, and operational excellence that allow our advisors to spend more time doing what they do best … serving clients. Together, Alex and I are committed to honoring the culture Colin built while positioning Summitry for sustainable, long-term success.”
Conor Wilkes, Co-CEO of Summitry
“Colin has built an exceptional firm with a culture that prioritizes clients, collaboration, and long-term stewardship, and we’re grateful that he’ll continue to play an important strategic role for both Summitry and Aspen. Alex and Conor are outstanding leaders who have earned the trust of their colleagues and clients through their vision, integrity, and execution. Their complementary strengths position Summitry to build on its remarkable success while continuing to deliver the personalized advice and exceptional client experience that have defined the firm for more than two decades.”
Aly Kassim-Lakha, CEO of Aspen Standard Wealth
