Craig S. Freidel

Branch Manager; Associate Vice President/Investments

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Craig brings a seasoned investment perspective to investment planning and wealth management with more than three decades experience. He began his investment career with Piper Jaffray in 1994 and joined Stifel in 2009.

Craig helps his clients make investment decisions, organize their financial lives and manage risks. He recognizes client priorities change over time and helps clients make necessary adjustments. Client lives evolve, markets evolve. He understands clients are on a wealth journey, and that this journey never travels on a straight path. He believes asset allocation is an important part of managing risk.

Asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against loss.

Deryk Thomsen

Vice President/Investments

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Deryk Thomsen joined Stifel in 2017, beginning his career in the investment industry that same year. Prior to entering financial services, he owned and managed Sun Gold Sports from 2012 to 2017, where he developed a strong foundation in business operations and client service. He earned his degree in Business Administration from the University of Sioux Falls and holds Series 7, 63, and 65 licenses.

Deryk is actively involved in his community, serving as a School Board Member and Treasurer for Mitchell Christian School.

At Stifel, Deryk believes in doing business face to face. He prioritizes understanding each client’s unique financial objectives in order to develop a strategy tailored to their needs and long-term goals. Whether clients are planning for retirement, saving for their children’s education, seeking to reduce tax liabilities, or aiming to increase monthly income, Deryk provides personalized, professional service and advice.

He works collaboratively with clients to assess their current financial situation and create a plan designed to help them pursue their goals. Together, they identify an appropriate asset allocation strategy and select investments that align with the client’s objectives and risk tolerance.

Asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against loss.

Paul Nelson

First Vice President/Investments

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Paul Nelson began his investment industry career in 2003 and joined Stifel in 2009. He holds Series 7, 63, and 65 licenses, as well as a Life Insurance certification. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education and an Associate's degree in Nursing from Dakota Wesleyan University.

Paul works with individuals and families to manage a full scope of investment products, lending solutions, and banking needs. He serves clients across a wide geographic area, often traveling to meet with them in person—recognizing that location should never be a barrier to quality financial guidance.

His investment philosophy emphasizes starting early and staying consistent. He focuses on wealth transfer and estate planning strategies and believes in listening closely to clients and adapting strategies as their needs evolve. Paul remains agile in response to changing market conditions, ensuring that investment strategies stay aligned with clients’ current and future goals.

Matt McManus

Financial Advisor

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As a Financial Advisor at Stifel, Matt helps clients make informed financial decisions through a personalized, education-first approach. He believes that clear and ongoing communication is important to building lasting relationships and long-term potential financial success. Backed by the strength, stability, and advisor-focused resources of Stifel, he works alongside his clients to help them design tailored wealth management strategies designed to evolve with their goals. Whether you’re planning for retirement, working to mitigate risk, or seek to build a legacy, Matt takes the time to explain complex financial concepts in a way that’s easy to understand, so you feel more confident and in control of your financial journey. By combining objective guidance, disciplined planning, and clear communication, Matt wants to be by your side every step of the way to help you navigate life’s financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Matt earned a Bachelor of Arts in Athletic Training and a Master of Arts in Educational Policy and Administration from Dakota Wesleyan University. He holds Series 7, 63, and 65 securities licenses.

Rita A. Dragseth

Senior Client Service Associate

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Rita Dragseth joined Stifel in 2013, bringing with her a strong background in legal and administrative support. She earned an Associate of Science degree with a legal emphasis from Dakota State College in Madison, South Dakota.

Prior to joining Stifel, Rita worked as a legal assistant for Carl Koch Attorney at Law from 1989 to 2014. Her earlier experience includes serving as Office Manager at PPD USA and as an Administrative Assistant in the Engineering Department at South Dakota State University.

In her role at Stifel, Rita supports both clients and advisors with a focus on accuracy, responsiveness, and professionalism. Her extensive experience in client service and office operations allows her to navigate complex administrative needs while helping ensure a smooth and efficient client experience

Mallory Buche-Arneson

Operations Coordinator

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Mallory Buche-Arneson joined Stifel in 2022 and serves as Operations Coordinator at the Mitchell, South Dakota branch. In her role, she supports the day-to-day operations of the office, helping ensure that client service and administrative processes run smoothly and efficiently.

Mallory brings a detail-oriented approach to her work, contributing to a professional and responsive client experience. Her commitment to operational excellence helps support both advisors and clients in pursuing their financial goals.