Jack E. Thurman, president of BKD Wealth Advisors, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of BKD, LLP, announces the promotion of Principal Jeffrey A. Layman to chief investment officer effective April 1, 2008.

Layman is the first individual to hold this high-level post since the subsidiary's inception in 1998. With $1.5 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2007, BKD Wealth Advisors serves more than 1,100 clients in 32 states. Office locations are in Little Rock, Indianapolis, Denver, Kansas City, and Springfield.

"This promotion signals another milestone in the firm's strategic development," Thurman said. "With the growth of BKD Wealth Advisors, we are positioned to expand our integrated wealth management services under Jeff's leadership as chief investment officer."

With nearly 20 years of experience in portfolio and investment management, Layman is chair of BKD Wealth Advisors' Investment Committee. He develops, implements and oversees the firm's investment management process, including investment selection for high net-worth families and institutions.

Layman is a Chartered Financial Analyst® charter holder and received an MBA in 1995 from Missouri State University, Springfield. Before joining BKD, he was senior portfolio manager in the private bank group of a nationwide banking organization.