Chris Fils,

Following his recent move to Chicago, Chris brings his years of experience and passion for the financial services industry as the Chicago complex manager at Raymond James. He thrives each day, assisting others to elevate to new heights of success, all while keeping clients’ best interests at heart.

Chris is responsible for all aspects of branch profitability and supports recruiting efforts through multiple avenues, including Home Office Visits and by continually elevating the transition experience for advisors joining Raymond James. He also devotes time to consulting with advisors and educating them on the firm’s platform of choice and independence, while introducing resources tailored to address their clients’ unique needs. Additionally, Chris has increased his focus on supporting business owners by deepening partnerships with the firm’s investment bank as companies navigate various stages of their business lifecycle.

Prior to his move to Chicago, Chris managed the Florida Suncoast complex for Raymond James. He joined the firm in 2018 following his role at Morgan Stanley, where he managed the Los Gatos, California, branch. Before that, he built a successful advisory career at Merrill Lynch in St. Petersburg, Florida, and later served as a regional investment specialist for Merrill Lynch across New York and southern Connecticut, driving regional revenue and asset growth. Alongside his leadership responsibilities, Chris continues to work closely with professional athletes, entrepreneurs and affluent families, helping them manage complex financial matters – both personal and professional.

A graduate of the University of South Florida, Chris holds a Bachelor of Science in finance and an MBA from Saint Leo University. He has completed the rigorous CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification and is an Accredited Asset Management Specialist ™ professional. Chris recently completed his training through the Wharton Securities Industry Institute (SII), further deepening his industry expertise.

Deeply committed to meaningful community impact and professional advocacy, Chris is a member of ACG Chicago and Rotary One Chicago, and he is actively involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago as a firm champion. He also remains dedicated to advancing representation within the financial services industry as a member of the Raymond James Black Financial Advisors Network and the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council, supporting advisors in excelling as their most authentic selves.

His leadership and contributions have earned him several honors, including InvestmentNews’ 40 Under 40 recognition (2022), the 2022 Raymond James & Associates Complex Manager of the Year award and the 2023 University of South Florida Outstanding Young Alumni Award for his meaningful engagement and support of the USF community.

Chris is married to his college sweetheart, Molly, and together, they’re raising their son.Outside of advocating for advisors and spending time with family, Chris enjoys reading,exercising, traveling and volunteering as a youth basketball coach on the weekends.