Raymond James Names New AI Chief to Boost Innovation

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RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL APPOINTS CHIEF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE OFFICER TO DRIVE INNOVATION AND AI BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Raymond James Appoints Stuart Feld as Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer

St. Petersburg, Fla., Feb. 24, 2025 – In a bold move to bolster its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, Raymond James announced today that Stuart Feld has been elevated to the newly established role of Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer. This strategic promotion marks a significant step in the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in providing exceptional services to its clients.

Enhancing Enterprise-Wide Innovation

Feld will serve as Raymond James’s principal AI architect, driving enterprise-wide innovation by exploring and implementing emerging technologies. According to CEO Paul Shoukry, the focus will be on enhancing both advisor- and client-facing services across all facets of the business. "Stuart is well-equipped to provide the vision and leadership to build on our growing success in this space," Shoukry stated, underlining the firm’s dedication to tapping into the potential of AI.

Fostering Client-Centric Solutions

Raymond James has a long-standing tradition of supporting research and development that improves business efficiencies. With substantial investments in AI, the firm targets three primary areas: elevating professional service standards, empowering advisors through time-saving tools, and leveraging data-driven insights to deliver superior client advice. This commitment is aimed at creating a transformative impact on the firm’s operational landscape.

Real-Time Innovation Through AI

The integration of AI solutions at Raymond James is already showcasing impressive advancements, particularly in cybersecurity, electronic communications review, and operational monitoring. Additionally, advisors are utilizing analytics to identify and engage with client touchpoints more effectively. These innovations are expected to enhance both the advisor experience and client service.

Predictive Intelligence for Advisors

Raymond James is harnessing machine learning and advanced analytics to develop tools like the Opportunities application and Advisor Access, which predict advisors’ next courses of action. This accelerates decision-making processes and improves outcomes for clients. Moreover, the firm is actively piloting a revamped intranet site, powered by generative AI, to provide real-time, relevant resources to its employees.

A Vision for Continuous Improvement

"Under Stuart’s leadership, we have been applying innovative AI solutions and enhancements to help advisors serve their clients and grow their practices," said Vin Campagnoli, Executive Vice President of Technology and Operations. "I’m confident we’ll build on our established foundation to create even more capacity and efficiency throughout the firm,” he added, emphasizing a collaborative approach to technology integration.

Empowering Human Touch in Financial Services

Feld is committed to a philosophy that promotes augmentation over replacement, ensuring that human interaction remains central to the advisor-client experience. "Our aim is to reduce administrative burdens and empower teams to better serve our clients," he remarked. This emphasis on collaboration between technology and human resources reflects the firm’s vision of maintaining high service standards while leveraging the power of AI.

The Role of the Technology Advisory Council

Raymond James designs AI tools in close collaboration with its Technology Advisory Council, which comprises seasoned financial advisors. This ensures each tool developed has practical, real-world applications, enhancing operational efficiency and client service. Feld highlighted this collaborative ethos as crucial in safeguarding the relevance of technology in the advisory space.

A Leader with Extensive Experience

Feld’s credentials are impressive; he joined Raymond James in 2018 as Senior Vice President and Head of Front Office Technology. With over three decades of experience directing global technology teams for major firms like JPMorgan, UBS, and Prudential Financial, Feld is well-poised to spearhead the company’s AI initiatives. His extensive background emphasizes his aptitude for steering technological innovation within the financial sector.

Raymond James: A Legacy of Client-Centric Services

Raymond James Ltd., the firm’s Canadian branch, operates on a foundation of putting clients first, a principle established since its inception in 1962. Today, this ethos guides their operations as they extend their services to individual and institutional investors across Canada, the United States, and pivotal international centers. With a roster of approximately 8,800 financial advisors managing around $1.5 trillion in assets, the firm has solidified its position as a leader in the investment industry.

Commitment to Comprehensive Talent Development

The strategic appointment of Feld is indicative of Raymond James’s unwavering focus on talent development within the technology sector. By integrating AI into their core platforms, the firm is not only enhancing service delivery but also investing in the future capabilities of its workforce. This creates a sustainable model for growth rooted in continuous improvement and adaptability.

Generating Impact Through Innovation

The potential of AI extends beyond performance metrics; it has the power to transform client relationships and elevate service experiences. In enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making accuracy, these innovative technologies drive improvements in service delivery, ultimately benefiting clients and advisors alike.

Looking Ahead: A Future with AI

As Raymond James forges ahead with its AI strategy under Stuart Feld’s leadership, the firm anticipates forging new pathways for client engagement and service improvement. The integration of intelligent systems will serve not only as tools for enhanced efficiency but also as strategic assets that align with the evolving landscape of the financial industry.

Investing in Client Relationships

In conclusion, by appointing Stuart Feld as Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, Raymond James reinforces its dedication to pioneering advancements that enrich client relationships. The initiative represents a significant leap toward a future where AI and human expertise converges to redefine the financial advisory paradigm, preserving the personal touch while enhancing the value delivered to clients. As the firm invests in these innovative technologies, clients can expect an enhanced advisory experience that combines the best of both worlds: cutting-edge intelligence and genuine human connection.

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