Kestra Financial, the Austin, Texas-based independent broker-dealer, has named Kelly Apple as its new head of wealth management, filling a role that has been vacant since April 2025. Apple, who spent more than 13 years at BlackRock, most recently as managing director and head of national accounts, will oversee the firm's wealth management organization across both Kestra Financial and Kestra Private Wealth Services, its breakaway-advisor channel.
The appointment concludes a lengthy executive search that began when John Amore was elevated to president in April 2025, succeeding Stephen Langlois, who retired at the end of 2024. Amore had been temporarily overseeing wealth management while the firm sought a permanent replacement. In a statement, Amore said Apple's experience "building partnerships and high-performing teams will help our community of complete wealth managers thrive."
Apple brings more than two decades of leadership experience in asset management and intermediary distribution. Before BlackRock, she held senior roles at DWS Investments and Van Kampen Investments, which is now part of Invesco. Her background in national accounts and distribution is expected to help Kestra deepen relationships with asset management partners, particularly as demand for alternative investments grows.
In her new role, Apple will lead teams responsible for investment management, high-net-worth and advanced planning, advisory solutions, retirement and insurance, alternative investments, and due diligence. The appointment reflects what Kestra described as a deliberate effort to define the next chapter of its wealth management organization following the internal restructuring that accompanied Amore's promotion.
Apple said she was drawn to Kestra's foundation, noting that the firm has "built something unique in this industry - a strong foundation for advisors who want to grow." Her oversight of the alternatives and due diligence functions will be closely watched as advisors demand more sophisticated access to private markets.
The hire comes as independent broker-dealers and RIA platforms compete aggressively for both advisor talent and senior operational leadership. Kestra has been active in recruiting, as seen in recent moves such as adding senior talent for M&A and operations and recruiting a $300M Cetera team. The firm's focus on alternatives and private markets aligns with broader industry trends, as advisors increasingly allocate client assets to these vehicles.
Apple's appointment also positions Kestra to strengthen its partnerships with asset managers, a key priority for independent platforms seeking to differentiate themselves. Her experience in national accounts is expected to help the firm expand its reach with both existing and prospective asset management partners.
Kestra Financial, which supports a community of independent advisors, has been expanding its services and technology to compete with larger rivals. The addition of a seasoned executive like Apple signals the firm's commitment to enhancing its wealth management offerings and supporting advisor growth.
