LGT Crestone nabs two more from Escala

In a widely anticipated move, LGT Crestone Wealth Management has welcomed two more investment advisers from Escala Partners,

Jonathan Vickers-Willis and Paul Sealey have joined the wealth manager owned by the Liechtenstein royal family-owned investment firm, adding to the exodus of top talent from Escala the wealth manager partially owned by New York-listed Focus Financial Partners.

Vickers-Willis and Sealy will follow Will Allen, Gabrielle Coles and Matt Gavshon who exited late last month to join LGT Crestone.

The duo - both partners at Escala - had worked there for ten years.

Their departure triggered legal action as detailed in sister publication Financial Standard.

The title reports that Escala Partners has lost its bid to restrain Sealey and Vickers-Willis from working in financial services and soliciting clients.

The case was set in motion when Allen tendered his resignation to take up a role at LGT Crestone.

Six months after the date on which his non-compete period expired - Sealey and Vickers-Willis also resigned.

Escala reckons an inference may be drawn that the duo had solicited clients to transfer their business from Escala to Allen.

Speaking of the latest appointments,  LGT Crestone chief executive Michael Chisholm said a key part of LGT Crestone's business growth strategy has always included expanding the firm's team of high-quality advisers, and we've been able to further accelerate this growth since becoming part of LGT Group in 2021.

"We're continuing to see a war for advisory talent amid an increasing demand in the private wealth sector, which requires a competitive approach to hiring and retention. The LGT Crestone growth strategy continues to succeed in the addition of high-calibre talent."

Chisholm also posted on social media that it had secured dedicated and passionate staffers.

"With a focus on delivering tailored investment solutions, Sealey ensures that his clients receive holistic advice that encompasses superannuation strategies, retirement planning, structuring, succession and estate planning,"

"Jonathan is a dedicated and passionate investment adviser based in Melbourne. Fuelled by his interest in financial markets, he is committed to providing strategic investment advice and achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients.

"With a vast client base  across Australia, Jonathan has established himself as a trusted adviser in the financial industry."

The wealth manager argued that Vickers-Willis made the decision to join LGT Crestone, attracted by the sophisticated investment offerings available for families, ultra-high net worth individuals, and non-profit organisations.