Piper Sandler, an investment banking firm, has announced the appointment of Dustin Avey and Jeremy Garber as co-heads of public finance. They will be replacing Frank Fairman, who has been with the firm for 40 years and headed the public finance division since 1991. Fairman will remain with the company in an advisory capacity until 2024, according to Piper Sandler.
In a statement, Piper Sandler President Deb Schoneman expressed her gratitude to Fairman for his contributions in building the firm’s market-leading public finance franchise over the past three decades. She also emphasized the accomplishments of Avey and Garber, highlighting their experience and energy in driving the growth of the firm’s diversified platform.
Avey, who has been with Piper Sandler since 2007, currently holds the position of managing director and head of Midwest public finance. With 21 years of experience as a municipal financial advisor and underwriter, he brings valuable expertise to the role. Avey holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Iowa State University.
Garber, on the other hand, joined Piper Sandler in 2011 as a managing director and head of senior living. He has a strong background in the field, having previously worked as an associate at Jefferies & Co. and a vice president at a regional commercial bank. Garber obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Drexel University.
Both Avey and Garber expressed their excitement and honor in taking on their new leadership roles. They emphasized their commitment to supporting the communities in which they operate and serving the unique needs of their clients through tailored solutions. Their appointment as co-heads of public finance demonstrates Piper Sandler’s focus on continued growth in this sector.
The successors have big shoes to fill, as Fairman was recognized for his accomplishments in the public finance industry. He was inducted into The Bond Buyer Muni Hall of Fame in 2023, where he was honored for his contributions, including expanding the firm’s public finance team’s national footprint to encompass 160 bankers in 43 locations across the United States.
Piper Sandler, a leading underwriter of municipal bonds, underwrote $13.7 billion worth of municipal bonds in 2022, securing an 11th place national ranking, according to Refinitiv. The firm’s strong presence in the market highlights its expertise and capability in handling public finance transactions.
With Avey and Garber as the new co-heads of public finance, Piper Sandler is well-positioned to continue its success in this sector. Their experience, along with their dedication to client service and community impact, will undoubtedly contribute to the firm’s future growth and achievements.