Former Baird market director brings 30+ years of leadership and $8 billion in AUM oversight experience to growing independent advisor platform.
DENVER (June, 2025) – Excelsior Advisor Network, an independent registered investment advisory platform serving financial advisors transitioning to independence, today announced the appointment of Mark Peterson as co-chief executive officer. Peterson brings over 30 years of financial services leadership experience, including more than 20 years in senior management at Robert W. Baird & Co., where he built and managed a thriving network of five offices with nearly 100 associates, over $50 million in revenue, and more than $8 billion in assets under management.
This strategic appointment underscores Excelsior’s commitment to providing advisors with institutional-quality leadership and support as they build independent practices. Peterson’s proven track record of recruiting top-tier financial advisors and developing successful teams positions Excelsior to accelerate its growth and enhance its value proposition to advisors considering independence.
“Mark’s appointment is a pivotal moment for Excelsior and validates the strength of our platform,” said Matt Curley, co-CEO and founder of Excelsior Advisor Network. “His decision to join us after building one of the most successful regional networks at Baird sends a powerful message to the advisor community about the opportunity we’ve created here. Mark understands what advisors need to succeed because he’s spent decades helping them build thriving practices.”
Peterson’s career began as a financial advisor with American Express and Piper Jaffray, giving him firsthand understanding of the challenges and opportunities advisors face. After transitioning into senior leadership roles, he served as branch manager and later market director at Baird, where he was responsible for recruiting top-tier advisors and mentoring teams across multiple markets. His hands-on leadership style and commitment to true partnership with advisors has resulted in many professional relationships that have evolved into lifelong friendships.
“The independent movement represents the future of wealth management, and Excelsior has built something truly special,” said Peterson. “After spending my career guiding advisors to success at traditional wirehouses, I’m excited to see them achieve even greater heights through independence. The platform Matt and the team have created offers advisors the best of both worlds: the resources and support of a major firm with the flexibility and entrepreneurial spirit that drives exceptional client service.”
Peterson’s appointment comes at a time of unprecedented interest from advisors seeking alternatives to traditional employment models. His extensive experience in advisor recruitment and team development will be instrumental as Excelsior continues to attract high-quality advisors looking to build independent practices while maintaining access to institutional resources and support.
Peterson’s addition to Excelsior’s leadership team reinforces the firm’s position as a premier destination for accomplished advisors. His deep understanding of what drives advisor success, combined with his track record of building profitable operations, will help Excelsior enhance its service offerings and accelerate growth across key markets.
“Mark’s decision to join Excelsior validates everything we’re building here,” noted Curley. “When someone with his track record and industry relationships chooses to partner with us, it demonstrates the strength of our platform and the opportunity we’re creating for advisors who want to take control of their futures.”
About Excelsior Advisor Network
Excelsior Advisor Network provides comprehensive support and resources to financial advisors building independent practices. The firm offers institutional-quality investment platforms, operational support, and business development resources that enable advisors to serve their clients with greater flexibility and focus. For more information, visit excelsioradvisor.com.