"We are at a pivotal point in delivering on our growth strategy, with new technology and enhanced product offerings rolling out this year," Gindi said in a statement. "Barry's deep industry experience will help us carry out our strategic objective to deliver all of Wells Fargo Advisors' capabilities to serve clients and help advisors grow their businesses."
Simmons was most recently a managing director and head of the East Division for J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, where he led a team of more than 1,600 financial advisors. He joined JPMorgan Chase & Co. in 2016 as head of Card Customer Service, later moving to serve as head of Consumer Banking & Wealth Management in California.
Earlier in his career, he worked as wealth management executive for Enterprise Business and Community Engagement, responsible for driving integration efforts for U.S. Trust and Merrill Lynch with all lines of business across Bank of America.
Simmons will work with WIM's four divisional leaders, branch leadership and centers of excellence to execute WIM's business strategy and drive growth, according to the firm.
He will oversee the following functions:
- The WFA Business Development model, led by four division leaders (Krista Goryl – Western, Marcus Glover – Northeast, Jessica Kelly – Central and Mike McLaughlin – Southeast).
- Advisor recruiting and integration, led by Kim Ta.
- Teaming and succession planning, led by Jenny Anderson.
- Events and recognition for advisors and clients, led by Jennifer Durrill.
- Branch and client communications, led by Louise Lawes.
- Strategic relationships, led by Stephanie Meadows.
- Digital & Automated Investing, led by Carolyn Link (financial advisor team) and Joshua Brown (administration and performance management).
- Financial advisor book reassignment and business continuity, led by Madonna Miller.
- Development of new advisors, led by Daniel Rave.
(Pictured: Barry Simmons)
