Merchant pledges long-term commitment to Australia with new hires

Merchant Australia, a subsidiary of Merchant Investment Management (MIM), has welcomed two executives to focus on its growth domestically, with both joining chief operating officer and principal Rebecca Wells.

Jamie Melville has joined as managing director and head of Merchant Australia, while Eli Glotzer was appointed managing director.

Merchant said the appointments reflect its focus on supporting the ongoing regulatory reform, succession pressures and operating complexity across the advice industry.

Melville brings more than 30 years' experience across wealth management, financial advice, and banking. He spent over 20 years at Macquarie Group, most recently leading the virtual adviser network within wealth solutions.

"The advice industry is at an important point in its development, with firms focused on sustainability, succession and long-term alignment," Melville said.

"Merchant's role is to support firms that want to grow with intention and keep what they've built."

Meanwhile, Glotzer brings more than 20 years' experience across business banking, structured lending and professional services, which includes senior roles at Macquarie Bank overseeing national portfolios between different industries.

In his new role, he will focus on structured capital solutions, partner firm lending, and deepening relationships across the Merchant Australia ecosystem, Merchant said.

MIM managing partner Matt Brinker said the appointments strengthen the firm's position in Australia.

"Australia is a critical market for Merchant. Jamie and Eli bring the depth of experience and alignment that firms need as the sector enters its next phase," Brinker said.

"The most successful advice firms over the decade ahead will be those that grow with discipline and true partnership. Our model is built for that, founder-aligned, not control-driven."

The business has been operating in Australia since 2022, taking a minority investment in a Brisbane-based advice group earlier this year, and partnering with ASX-listed financial advice network WT Financial Group to continue developing the Investco strategy.