Erik Merchant is an Executive Director and the Head of Investments & Advice for the Michigan market. Erik leads a team of Bankers and Investment Specialists to guide business owners, corporate executives, family offices and other highly affluent clients in making the complex financial decisions that accompany significant assets. A native of the area, he draws from the richness of his industry network to drive business impact and build J.P. Morgan’s visibility in the region.
Erik establishes the strategic direction of his team, building an entrepreneurial culture that empowers each individual to remain at the forefront of innovative ideas. In his multifaceted role, he continues to advise a select group of sophisticated clients, offering wealth advisory and planning across disciplines and balance sheets to build their legacies for future generations. Erik has a long history of navigating the organization’s global infrastructure and connecting with like-minded families to share the best practices of others who have walked in their shoes. He believes there’s no substitute for hard work, and brings passion, integrity and honesty to everything he does.
Throughout his nearly 15-year career at the firm, Erik has risen to senior leadership positions while serving some of the largest clients in Michigan. His experience extends to West Michigan, where he oversaw the Grand Rapids office for two years during the COVID epidemic. This differentiated background has positioned him to seamlessly facilitate the growth agenda of J.P. Morgan across the state.
Erik holds an M.B.A. in Finance and Investments from the University of Michigan, and a B.B.A. in Finance from Grand Valley State University. He is a member of the Detroit Economic Club Reception Committee. He sits on the Board of Commissioners with The Greening of Detroit, an organization dedicated to “inspiring sustainable growth of an urban community through green spaces, education, training and job opportunities.”
Residents of Plymouth, Erik and his wife have a son and daughter. He is a huge sports enthusiast who enjoys basketball, golf, traveling and spending time with his family.
