Eyeing Thoughtful Acquisitions, Plancorp Hires New COO to Support Integration and Innovation

About Plancorp

 Derek Hartley By: Derek Hartley

Recently topping $8B under management, Plancorp Wealth Management announced the hiring of Jeff Smith as Chief Operating Officer, joining the firm in late July 2025.

“The industry is evolving quickly,” said President & CEO, Chris Kerckhoff, “from consolidation to technology, it’s increasingly important for firms to lean in on operational excellence behind the scenes so advisors can focus on client relationships. With Jeff’s experience leading transformative technology and operations, we’re thrilled to bring his insight onboard to support our next phase of growth.”

Smith shared, “It’s exciting to join Plancorp at such a pivotal time for the firm and industry. Beyond technology, people make the difference. The people of Plancorp are of course intelligent advisors, but they also adhere to strong values that keep client service at the center of everything they do. I knew I wanted to work with a team that has that mindset.”

Smith has over 25 years of experience leading technology and digital transformations in a variety of professional industries like banking, mortgages, and real estate. With multi-billion dollar acquisition and integration experience, Plancorp sees his background as an ideal fit for their efforts to enable advisors with thoughtful AI solutions and scale operations through acquisitions.

Aiming to be a different kind of acquirer in the industry, Plancorp brought on TRIA Capital Partners as a minority capital partner in early 2024. “We believe we can add a unique perspective to the M&A conversation happening in the industry today,” said Kerckhoff. “We’re seeking strategic opportunities with leaders who want to grow thoughtfully and believe adding Jeff to our team will solidify the trust that we can integrate likeminded firms into our model with ease.”

About Plancorp:

More than a Registered Investment Advisor, Plancorp has served the unique financial planning needs of individuals and businesses across the nation from their St. Louis headquarters for over 40 years. With a team of 87 professionals, they serve nearly 1,600 client households with assets under management of $8B.

www.Plancorp.com

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Derek joined in 2022 to lead Plancorp’s marketing. He brings a wide variety of experience in digital and traditional marketing, client communications and public relations, expanding our ability to connect with and help more families in the years to come. More »

Disclosure

For informational purposes only; should not be used as investment tax, legal or accounting advice. Plancorp LLC is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training nor does it imply endorsement by the SEC. All investing involves risk, including the loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Plancorp's marketing material should not be construed by any existing or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain level of results if they engage our services, and may include lists or rankings published by magazines and other sources which are generally based exclusively on information prepared and submitted by the recognized advisor. Plancorp is a registered trademark of Plancorp LLC, registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

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