Cates' appointment comes as the group undergoes a minor restructure in preparation of industry reforms and further growth within the group, RI Advice Group chief executive Paul Campbell said.
"While reporting lines have somewhat changed, dealer group functions have not but will now be more integrated to drive greater revenue growth within RI Advice Group and to make sure our advisers are in the best position possible ahead of industry changes," Campbell said.
Formerly the head of advice at Genesys Wealth Advisers, Cates joined RI Advice Group in a consulting role in June this year.
In his new role, he will oversee the investment research, professional standards and compliance, advice research and development, technical services and risk insurance divisions.
Campbell said RI Advice Group had also appointed Madeline Said to the newly-created position of technical manager.
Reporting to advice research and development manager Miles Mudie, Said will support advisers to bring quality advice and legislative strategy together.
Working in financial services since 1995, Said previously worked with Genesys as well as AMP and AM Corporation.
