Mike Finnegan Appointed Chief Investment Officer at Prairie Wealth Advisors
Omaha, Nebraska – Prairie Wealth Advisors has announced the appointment of Mike Finnegan as its first Chief Investment Officer (CIO). This significant move comes as the firm nears $1 billion in assets under management, following its recent merger with The McEwen Group.
Finnegan brings over 30 years of experience in asset allocation, portfolio construction, and manager research. Prior to joining Prairie Wealth, he held senior positions at ManchesterStory Fund Management, Guggenheim Investment Management, and Principal Financial Group. Notably, he was instrumental in growing target date funds from $3 billion to $20 billion during his tenure at Principal.
Craig Hundt, CEO of Prairie Wealth, stated, “As Prairie Wealth enters its next stage of growth, we are investing in the people, processes, and capabilities that help us deliver thoughtful advice and disciplined portfolio management.” He emphasized Finnegan’s “deep institutional experience” and “client-first philosophy” as aligning closely with the firm’s mission.
A Merger Leading to Enhanced Investment Strategies
Finnegan’s hire follows the completion of Prairie Wealth’s merger with The McEwen Group, which added roughly $400 million in assets under management and $200 million in 401(k) assets. Prairie Wealth previously managed about $550 million, primarily from high-net-worth individual clients. The merger has not only bolstered AUM but also enriched the firm’s investment capabilities by combining its focus on municipal bonds and alternative strategies with equity expertise from The McEwen Group.
Strategic Focus as CIO
As the new CIO, Finnegan will develop a comprehensive investment framework designed to enhance the firm’s approach beyond generic model portfolios. His responsibilities will include:
- Leading manager research and due diligence
- Integrating risk management across investment decisions
- Expanding the firm’s alternatives program
- Serving as a market-facing voice for the firm
Finnegan expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m excited to be joining Prairie Wealth at such an important time for the firm’s evolution. The team has built a strong reputation for thoughtful, planning-led advice, and I look forward to helping further strengthen the investment platform behind that work.”
He will be based in Omaha, where Prairie Wealth’s headquarters are located.
