Stuart Raftus has departed Rockwater Capital Corp. to join Halifax-based Seamark Asset Management Ltd. Raftus becomes president and CEO of Seamark, effective immediately.

Raftus, 45, was most recently COO of Rockwater and president of its investment dealer subsidiary Blackmont Capital Inc., where he was responsible for the firm’s wealth management and asset management businesses.

Previously he served as head of wealth management for CIBC Oppenheimer in the United States and held senior positions with Credit Suisse First Boston in Canada, with Merrill Lynch in both Canada and the United States, and with Midland Walwyn.

“Stuart Raftus is the ideal choice to be Seamark’s CEO,” said Peter Marshall, chairman of Seamark, in a release. “He brings an impressive record as a leader and builder of companies as well as strategic insights into the investment industry.”

Marshall, who has served as CEO of Seamark for more than 20 years, will continue as chairman and chief investment officer.

“I am excited by the opportunity to lead the SEAMARK team,” Raftus said. “Seamark is well-respected in the industry for its disciplined, long-term approach to investment management. This is the foundation we will build on. This company has tremendous potential, and I look forward to working with our employees, clients, and shareholders to help shape its future.”

Raftus is a native Nova Scotian and a graduate of Halifax’s Saint Mary’s University.

Rockwater promoted two officers to replace Raftus. Gerald Throop, president of capital markets of Blackmont, was named president of Blackmont, while Bruce Kagan, executive vice president, head of private client of Blackmont, was appointed executive vice president, head of wealth management of Blackmont. The appointments are subject to regulatory approval.

“Gerry and Bruce are proven and experienced leaders and have demonstrated their ability to produce results throughout their careers,” said Bill Packham, president & CEO of Rockwater.

Throop has been a member of Rockwater’s senior executive team and head of Blackmont’s capital markets group since August 2004. Kagan joined Blackmont in June 2005, bringing with him over 15 years of experience in the wealth management business.