R.M. Davis Announces Promotions and New Principals

R.M. Davis, a leading independent provider of wealth management and advisory services, is proud to announce a series of significant promotions and new principals within its ownership group. These appointments recognize a commitment to outstanding performance, continued professional growth, and meaningful contributions to the firm and its clients.

Principals

R.M. Davis is excited to announce updates within the Principal group.

Michele Whitmore becomes a Principal after 26 years of pivotal contributions, including strategic planning, team leadership, and client focus. As Managing Director of Client Service, Michele is recognized across the professional community for her excellence and resourcefulness.
Drew Blaney advances to Principal and Chief Financial Officer. Since 2021, Drew’s expertise in finance, governance, and strategy has made him a visionary leader and financial steward for the firm. Prior to coming to R.M. Davis, Drew was a CPA in public accounting.
George Carr becomes a Principal, marking a decade of dedication to investment management, client relationships, and community service at R.M. Davis. As a Client Advisor and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, George is valued for his leadership, compassionate approach, and commitment to client service best practices.
Michael Wood, Principal at R.M. Davis since 2020, has been appointed Head of the Client Advisor Group. Mike holds the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation. In this new leadership role, Mike will oversee the team responsible for client advisory services, ensuring consistency and excellence across all client portfolios and interactions. His proven leadership skills and dedication to maintaining the highest standards make him an ideal fit for this important position.

Officer Promotions

R.M. Davis has promoted six team members within its officer group including Managing Directors and Vice Presidents.

Managing Directors

Kenleigh Nicoletta has been promoted to Managing Director. With a background as a Trust & Estate attorney, Kenleigh has overseen Trustee Services at R.M. Davis since 2020, enhancing quality and operating effectiveness in the Trust Department. Kenleigh also serves as a resource on estate planning and related topics, providing education and resources to clients and employees.
Michael Neff, an accomplished Client Advisor, has also been promoted to Managing Director. Michael holds the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation. His dedication to client relationships and portfolio management has made Michael a steady and inspiring force within the firm since 2020.

Vice Presidents

Jill Richardson has been promoted to Vice President–Client Service. With the firm since 1997, Jill is renowned for her dedication, managing client relationships, supervising associates, and mentoring her team. Her professionalism and responsiveness in the attorney and accounting communities exemplify the firm's core values.
Karen Merritt has also been promoted to Vice President–Client Service. Joining the firm in 2001, Karen stands out as a committed team player and mentor, managing the largest Client Relationship Associate group, overseeing workflow, and consistently delivering excellence with care and compassion.
Caitlin Hickey has been promoted to Vice President–Client Service. Since 2007, Caitlin has advanced through multiple roles, earned her MBA, and launched the Operational Efficiency team at R.M. Davis. Her leadership, work ethic, and dedication to improvement are driving factors to her success.
Teddy Smith is now Vice President and Client Advisor. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Teddy brings expertise in portfolio management and financial planning. His commitment to the professional community and exceptional client service have distinguished him as a valued advisor and leader.

Associate Promotions

R.M. Davis has promoted five team members within its associate group.

Mary Ellen Carignan has been promoted to Senior Client Support Associate. Mary Ellen is recognized for her outstanding dedication to client service, consistently delivering high-quality support and fostering positive relationships with both clients and colleagues.
Kurtis Petersons has been promoted to Senior Securities Trader. With 20 years of experience in the RIA industry and an extensive background in the hedge fund space, Kurtis possesses a thorough understanding of trading processes and plays a pivotal role in the firm’s trading group.
Denise Fredette has been promoted to Senior Finance Associate. Denise consistently demonstrates exceptional expertise in financial operations and has driven improvements throughout the R.M. Davis Finance group.
Kristen Minervino has been promoted to Senior Operations Associate. A decade of experience at R.M. Davis, extensive process knowledge, and willingness to assist colleagues make her a valuable asset in this elevated role.
William Myrick has been promoted to Senior Client Support Associate. His professionalism, client relationship skills, and willingness to take on challenges of the job have proven to be vital to the success of the team he works with, and the firm as a whole.

“We are thrilled to recognize these outstanding individuals for their leadership and dedication,” states Scot Draeger, President of R.M. Davis. “Their achievements reflect our firm’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and service.”

About R.M. Davis

R.M. Davis is a locally owned, independent wealth management firm, with offices in Portland, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Founded in 1978, the firm provides straightforward, uncomplicated, and unbiased financial solutions, driven by a foundational commitment to integrity and trust. R.M. Davis provides fiduciary services to clients in more than 40 states and 6 countries, including investment management, wealth and financial planning, trust services, and personal affairs management.

*Chartered Financial Analyst® is a registered trademark owned by CFA Institute.

**Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification mark CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.