An Alabama-based independent RIA and broker/dealer is taking a new approach in developing the client-advisor relationship by establishing advisory groups aimed at improving a customer’s journey throughout the financial planning experience.
Birmingham, Ala., based ProEquities Inc. announced the launch of two new peer-advisory groups, which will boost the influence of millennial and female advisors by helping them build their businesses and acquire new clients. The firm currently serves 700 independent financial advisors and has $16 billion in assets under management.
Chris Flint, president and CEO of ProEquities said, “We’re very excited about how our peer coaching groups can engage with and promote the professional success of millennial and women advisors. Just as importantly, we see enormous potential in having our peer coaching groups serve as the nucleus of an internal think tank for our community of advisors, introducing fresh ideas and strategies they can use to grow their businesses more effectively in these market niches.”
One new group is the Women’s Networking Forum, which consists of 100 advisors from the firm’s community of advisors and offers both an in-person and virtual forum. Advisors will discuss topics such as client acquisitions, retention and succession planning, plus information particularly pertinent to female advisors at all stages in their careers.
Monique Castillo of Higher Ground Financial Services, based in Philadelphia, recently made the transition to ProEquities. She serves a broad range of clients, but represents more women than men, and she has approximately $20 million in client assets. Castillo participates in financial literacy education in the Philadelphia community.
“Having recently transitioned to independence and affiliated with ProEquities, I have found the [Women’s Networking Forum] to be an incredible tool,” she said in a statement. “Participating has not only provided me the opportunity to interface with women who face the very same challenges and opportunities I contend with on a daily basis, but I have also received actionable practice management coaching and advice that I have already implemented into my practice.”
A Group For Millennials
Licensed advisors age 25 years old or older affiliated with ProEquities will participate in the Millennial Leaders Study Group. This group will function as a cooperative team working to boost the financial industry knowledge of its members and offer professional networking opportunities. Peer-to-peer networking calls and monthly industry professional development webinars will supplement an in-person session at the ProEquities annual APEX conference.
Zack Van Zant of Financial Solutions, based in LaGrange, Ky., started working full time as a financial advisor at the age of 22. Through internships with financial firms in college, Van Zant, now 25, holds a certified financial planner certification. His client assets total approximately $20 million, and he primarily serves millennial and Gen X clients.
“I am very excited to be part of the Millennial Leaders Study Group, which has allowed me to both gain valuable insights from longtime industry veterans and share best practices with other young advisors like myself who are new to the financial services industry,” he said in a statement. He added, “Though I’ve only been involved with the group for a short time, I’ve learned so much already, especially about client acquisition and prospecting, and no longer feel like I’m alone because I can now share the challenges and joys of growing a financial practice with a group of my peers.”