LGT Crestone appoints partner to Adelaide office, as Escala raid continues

Private wealth specialist LGT Crestone has once again poached from rival asset management firm Escala Partners, announcing the appointment of Ben Potter to its Adelaide office.

Potter effectively returns to LGT Crestone, formerly owned by UBS Wealth Management (Potter’s former employer), as partner, investment adviser to its fast-growing Adelaide office.

He served almost a decade of his 20-year career at Escala Partners as an investment adviser, with LGT Crestone recognising his role in crafting “bespoke investment strategies, providing nuanced financial guidance, and [fostering] strong relationships with HNW and not-for-profit clients”.

LGT Crestone said its latest senior appointment reflects its strategic decision to enhance its regional market presence, and notably Adelaide, recognising the region’s evolving high net worth (HNW) market.

“The expansion of our Adelaide team, marked by the significant addition of Ben Potter, aligns with LGT Crestone’s proactive response to the evolving needs of a local market,” said Michael Chisholm, chief executive of LGT Crestone.

“While historically seen as having a tilt toward stock-broking, the Adelaide-based HNW segment is undergoing a shift toward strategic wealth management and has a growing appetite for sophisticated investment offerings particularly in private markets, alternatives and sustainable investments.”

Commenting on his new role, Potter said he looked “forward to bringing LGT Crestone’s sophisticated investment offerings to our valued clients.”

He added: “I’m particularly passionate about the impact of Environmental Social Governance on investments.

“Joining the talented team at LGT Crestone enables me to apply this consideration into investment strategies for clients who prioritise achieving financial success with a positive impact.”

The appointment of Potter continues LGT Crestone’s ongoing raid of Escala talent, with founding partners Mason Allamby and Stephen Collins stepping over to the ex-UBS firm late last year.

They were joined by investment advisers Steve De Bolfo and Chris Quigley, and associate Amelia Kelaher.