Chris Chakford is a veteran in the financial industry with nearly three decades of expertise in alternative investments, private placements, and wealth management. As the Founder and CEO of Divergent Capital Asset Management, a boutique Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), Chakford spearheads a team boasting over 65 years of combined experience. His firm specializes in private wealth management, alternative investments, and outsourced Chief Investment Officer (CIO) services, offering clients a blend of innovative strategies and personalized financial solutions. Chakford excels in alternative investments, providing access to private equity, private credit, and structured products typically reserved for institutional investors. Through Divergent Capital’s Outsourced CIO service, he supports RIAs, advisors, and family offices in designing customized portfolios that manage risk and achieve financial goals with precision. In addition to his professional endeavors, Chakford is deeply committed to philanthropy, contributing to organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Goodwill, and the Veterans in Need Foundation. His community engagement reflects his dedication to making a meaningful impact beyond the financial world. Outside the office, Chakford enjoys golfing, cornhole, and weekly poker games, cherishing time with his family. Celebrating 20 years of marriage in June 2024, he balances professional achievements with personal values, embodying leadership rooted in integrity and purpose.
Can you walk us through a typical day as the CEO of Divergent Capital Asset Management? How do you balance strategic planning with daily operations?
My day starts early with market analysis and team check-ins. I focus on strategic decision-making, guiding our firm’s direction in alternative investments, wealth management, and education planning. I review client portfolios, assess new investment opportunities, and oversee the development of bespoke strategies for clients. Balancing leadership with hands-on involvement is essential. I also allocate time to mentor team members and ensure our clients receive institutional-grade services. My evenings often include community involvement or unwinding with my family. Staying organized and prioritizing tasks helps me maintain a balance between operational demands and strategic vision.
What drives your passion for alternative investments and wealth management, and how has this shaped your career over nearly three decades?
My passion lies in empowering clients to achieve their financial goals, especially through innovative strategies in alternative investments. Early in my career, I saw how limited access to institutional-grade opportunities created a gap for individual investors. That inspired me to bridge the gap. Helping families secure their futures and watching our tailored solutions improve their lives keeps me motivated. Knowing that my work makes a tangible difference – whether it’s creating education plans or supporting RIAs – fuels my drive. I also find inspiration in our team’s expertise and shared commitment to excellence in everything we do.
Why do you prioritize education planning as part of Divergent Capital’s services, and how do you believe it impacts families and future generations?
Education is a cornerstone for success and opportunity. At Divergent Capital, we prioritize education planning because it aligns wealth with purpose. Rising education costs challenge families, so we offer tailored solutions like 529 plans and ESAs to ease this burden. Our comprehensive approach ensures clients can cover tuition and related expenses while maximizing tax advantages. By helping families invest in their children’s future, we empower them to build legacies rooted in opportunity. For me, education planning is about more than finances; it’s about creating pathways for the next generation to achieve their aspirations.
Are there any books or quotes that have profoundly influenced your leadership style or your approach to financial planning?
One quote that resonates deeply with me is by Warren Buffett: “Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” It encapsulates the essence of wealth management – thinking long-term and making decisions today that benefit future generations. A book that’s influenced my perspective is The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham. It reinforces the importance of value investing and strategic risk management. These principles guide my professional approach and remind me that financial decisions are about creating sustainable growth and security for clients and their families.
You’re deeply involved in charitable work. How do your philanthropic efforts align with your values and those of Divergent Capital?
Philanthropy is integral to my life and work. Supporting organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Goodwill allows me to give back to communities in need. These causes reflect my values, emphasizing education, health, and opportunity. I believe financial success comes with a responsibility to uplift others, and my contributions are a way to make a tangible impact. These efforts also influence Divergent Capital’s mission – aligning wealth management with meaningful, positive change. Whether it’s local charities or global initiatives, I find fulfillment in helping create a better world for future generations.
With a team boasting over 65 years of combined experience, how do you foster collaboration and ensure your firm remains at the forefront of the industry?
Leadership at Divergent Capital is about collaboration and trust. I ensure our team has the tools and resources needed to succeed, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. With over 65 years of combined expertise, we prioritize open communication and teamwork to deliver exceptional results for our clients. I believe in leading by example – sharing my knowledge, encouraging creative solutions, and celebrating successes. By aligning our efforts with a clear vision, we empower each other to excel. Our collective commitment to excellence is what sets us apart in the financial industry.
In a dynamic industry like wealth management, how do you help clients navigate uncertainty and make informed investment decisions?
Volatility is an inherent part of financial markets, but it also presents opportunities. At Divergent Capital, we help clients navigate uncertainty by employing institutional-grade risk management strategies. We focus on diversification, alternative investments, and long-term planning to protect and grow wealth. Communication is key – I ensure our clients are informed about market conditions and how their portfolios are positioned. By staying proactive and adaptive, we turn challenges into opportunities. Our goal is to instill confidence, helping clients remain focused on their objectives despite short-term market fluctuations.
As a family man celebrating 20 years of marriage, how do you maintain balance between your demanding career and personal life?
Maintaining balance between my career and personal life is a priority. My family is my anchor, and celebrating 20 years of marriage reminds me of the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. I carve out time for activities like golfing, cornhole, and poker, which help me recharge. This balance is also reflected in how I lead at Divergent Capital – valuing both professional excellence and personal well-being. By staying organized and mindful of priorities, I ensure that I can give my best both at work and at home.
What’s your approach to building trust with clients, particularly when guiding them through complex areas like alternative investments and tax planning?
Building trust with clients starts with understanding their goals and providing personalized solutions. At Divergent Capital, we listen carefully to their needs and craft strategies that align with their values. Transparency and communication are central to our approach – I want clients to feel confident and informed about every decision we make together. Our focus on institutional-grade opportunities and tailored portfolios sets us apart, but it’s the genuine relationships we build that create lasting partnerships. Trust is earned through consistency, reliability, and a deep commitment to their success.
Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave through Divergent Capital and your contributions to the financial industry and community?
I want my legacy to be defined by empowering others – whether through wealth management, education planning, or community support. At Divergent Capital, we’re building a firm that blends innovation with a personal touch, redefining how clients approach their financial futures. Beyond professional achievements, I hope to be remembered for giving back and making a positive impact in people’s lives. By mentoring my team, supporting charitable causes, and helping clients secure their legacies, I aim to leave a lasting mark that extends beyond financial growth to meaningful, enduring change.