Wealth Advisors Trust Company Appoints New Leader for Expansion
New York, Monday, 20 October 2025.
Jonathan Connolly, former CEO of Wealthspire Trust, joins WATC as President and COO to spearhead national growth, enhancing services and reaching more markets across the U.S.
New Leadership at Wealth Advisors Trust Company
Wealth Advisors Trust Company (WATC), an independent corporate trustee based in Rapid City, South Dakota, has appointed Jonathan Connolly as President and Chief Operating Officer. Connolly, who has over 30 years of experience in fiduciary and wealth management services, steps into this role after serving as CEO and President of Wealthspire Trust LLC [1][2]. His appointment, effective October 16, 2025, is aimed at steering the firm’s ambitious national expansion efforts [3].
A Strategic Move for National Expansion
The appointment of Connolly marks a strategic phase for WATC as it plans to expand into key markets including the Mid-South, New England, and the West Coast [1][2]. Currently overseeing more than $4 billion in assets under administration, WATC aims to leverage Connolly’s extensive industry experience to fortify its position as a leading advisor-friendly corporate trustee [1][3]. The company, founded in 2009, prides itself on simplifying fiduciary relationships for advisors and clients alike [2].
Enhancing Service Offerings
Under Connolly’s leadership, WATC intends to enhance its service offerings and client engagement strategies. This includes providing more collaborative and compassionate trust services, thereby enabling financial advisors and attorneys to deliver superior outcomes for their clients [1][3]. Christopher Holtby, co-founder of WATC, emphasized that Connolly’s leadership is expected to accelerate the firm’s growth and deepen the value it offers to its partners [2].
Future Prospects and Plans
As part of its future initiatives, Wealth Advisors Trust Company is committed to expanding its digital offerings and enhancing its service capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its clients by early 2026 [3]. Connolly’s appointment is seen as pivotal in driving these changes, as the company seeks to capitalize on favorable trust laws and its strong fiduciary environment in South Dakota [2][3].