Stratus Financial Announces Promotion of Alan Rios to Chief Investment Officer

Introduction of Institutional Capital Will Drive Firm's Growth in Aviation Financing

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Stratus Financial LLC (“Stratus” or the “Company”), a super-prime consumer finance platform dedicated to providing student loans for aspiring pilots, is thrilled to announce the promotion of Alan Rios to Chief Investment Officer. This advancement follows Chris Ragland’s transition to a Principal role within the firm—a strategic evolution that had been in the planning and reflects his ongoing commitment to supporting the firm's growth from an advisory capacity.

“Alan’s contributions have been critical in evolving Stratus Financial’s approach to attracting institutional capital, and I am confident that his leadership will drive the firm toward new heights of success,” said Ragland.

With a background in institutional and private banking and a strong track record from his previous role within Citigroup’s North America Family Office Group, Alan Rios has been instrumental in building new institutional banking relationships, managing investor relations and elevating the firm’s fund offering to appeal to larger, sophisticated investors. His promotion to Chief Investment Officer reflects his impressive performance and the strategic impact he has made in a short period.

“I am excited about welcoming Alan in his promotion to CIO for Stratus Financial,” said Anthony Geraci, CEO of Stratus Financial. “His commitment to excellence and working with our capital markets partners to achieve united goals will continue to propel Stratus forward and continue to make it the #1 choice for students aspiring to become airline pilots.”

“I am honored to step into the role of Chief Investment Officer at Stratus Financial. Chris’ support through this transition has been instrumental, and I am excited to continue building on the solid foundation he has established,” said Rios. “We are on the cusp of significant growth, and I look forward to guiding our firm through this exciting phase.”

Stratus Financial is set to experience tremendous growth in its retail investment and capital markets efforts with Alan Rios leading the charge as Chief Investment Officer. The firm remains committed to leveraging its expertise and strategic capabilities to attract and manage institutional capital, furthering its mission to support the aviation education sector.

About Stratus Financial

Founded in 2020 by FAA Certified Flight and Ground Instructors who are passionate about helping others achieve their dreams of flight, Stratus is a consumer finance platform providing flexible and innovative educational funding solutions to students pursuing aviation education and training. Stratus is fully geared to marry Student Success and School Success with several programs designed for Flight Schools, by Flight Schools and is on a mission to help aspiring pilots achieve their flight dreams as swiftly as possible through hassle-free flight school loan programs.