Four advisors based in Washington state with $425 million in assets under management have left Merrill Lynch to launch a new, independent practice affiliated with LPL Financial, an LPL statement said.
Pacific Legacy Wealth Partners, located in Federal Way, Wash., is led by Terri L. Conger, a certified financial planner who was named to the Forbes’ “Best-In-State” top women wealth advisors list in 2023. She is joined by co-founders Joseph Blackner, Jace Kasteler and Trevor Lubereski.
“We’re a strong multi-generational team, with all of our different experiences and a broad range of skills,” Conger said in the press release. “We are deeply committed to consistency, service and hard work. We are driven by our values and fiduciary standards based on our commitment to always act in the client’s best interest.”
According to LPL, the new firm is part of LPL Strategic Wealth Services, a supported independence business model that begins with simplified pricing, technology and dedicated support while an advisory team launches its practice. The platform offers ongoing operations support after a transition is completed, including the use of a business strategist, marketing partner, CFO and administrative assistant, the statement said.
“As we looked around, we realized how much goes on behind the scenes in terms of business operations,” said Lubereski, who is also Conger’s son. “It was clear that Strategic Wealth Services could help fill in the gap between being fully independent and an employee. We have a full team behind us dedicated to our success so that we can do what we do best—taking care of our clients and doing what’s right for their financial futures.”
In addition to the wealth management they provide for their clients, the Pacific Legacy partners support the John Volken Foundation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, various church ministries, the local zoo and several youth sports programs.