James D. Hoyt

Experience matters. Credentials matter. Connection matters. When selecting an advisor, every client should feel at ease and confident in their decision. Knowing that the advisor has education and stellar credentials, as well as years of all-encompassing industry background, specifically working with high-net-worth clients, will fortify your choice. As a sophisticated investor, you know that objectivity, experience, and expert consultation are paramount. 

James “J.D.” Hoyt is the Founder and CEO of Ascendant Financial Solutions, Inc., a client-centric wealth management practice he established in 1990 with offices in Flagstaff, Phoenix, and Mesa, Arizona. In 2023, Ascendant Financial merged with Heffernan Financial. As of November 1, 2025. J.D. now serves as President of Heffernan Advisory Inc. 

During the maturation of Ascendant Financial Solutions, Inc. JD identified the need for high-quality independent comprehensive financial solutions. Ascendant Financial Solutions, Inc. was expanded to provide high-quality independent investment and planning advice along with exceptional service. After almost three decades of industry experience, JD acts as a Personal Chief Financial Officer by providing comprehensive investment and planning services to successful families and individuals. When you confide in JD, you are working with an advisor who has invested in his own ongoing education and who adheres to an ethics code that requires that he only act in his clients’ best interest as a fiduciary. 

Clients engaging in the comprehensive wealth management approach are guided through a disciplined five-step process which includes: a unique discovery meeting, investment consulting, wealth transfer, wealth protection, and charitable giving. JD also encourages prospective clients to take advantage of the firm’s “second opinion” service. This offer allows prospective clients to get a real snapshot of their current investments and plans with a written action plan. JD develops specific strategies to minimize taxes, monetize and protect assets, and transfer wealth according to your goals and objectives. 

JD is a graduate of Northern Arizona University. Additionally, he is a Certified Personal Wealth Advisor (CPWA®), a Certified Fund Specialist (CFS®), and a current candidate for the Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®). One can learn more about CPWA® and CIMA® at www.imca.org. 

JD and his wife, Kathy, divide their time between Scottsdale, Arizona, and Denver, Colorado. They enjoy traveling, and JD maintains a strong interest in golf and photography.