Financial planning firm names two new principals

SARASOTA — Allegiant Private Advisors has named Kristina Eastmond and Melissa Walsh principals.

The Sarasota-based independent firm offers fiduciary-level financial planning and investment advisory services. Eastmond and Walsh also earned promotions within their divisions of the firm. Eastmond has been promoted to director of client service and Walsh to senior wealth advisor, according to a press release. 

Eastmond joined Allegiant in 2014. Her areas of oversight include client onboarding, asset transfers, account maintenance, cash management, account succession and establishing best practices to increase operational efficiencies. Prior to joining the firm, Eastmond worked at Suntrust Investment Services as an investment associate and Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette in New York as a vice president for the investment banking information technology division, the release adds. 

Walsh joined Allegiant in 2018. Her experience in the financial services industry began in 2008. It has included relationship management, investment analysis and financial advising. 

“Our team approach to customized wealth management focuses on assembling and retaining an exceptional family of colleagues who share a dedication to client success,” says Allegiant Private Advisors President Benjamin Jones in the statement. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have Kristina and Melissa as key leaders in the firm’s — and our clients’ — future success.”

Founded in 1997, Allegiant Private Advisors works with high-net-worth families, entrepreneurs, nonprofits and foundations.