Raymond James today announced that it recently added a former Merrill Lynch advisor in Texas who managed $1.3 billion in client assets to its employee channel, Raymond James & Associates, according to a news release.
Melinda Johnston, who has been in the industry for nearly four decades, serves as managing director for M2J Wealth Management Group of Raymond James. She is joined by practice manager Kristin Stanley, investment portfolio associate Nick Olivarri and senior client service associate Judy Frank. According to BrokerCheck, Johnston and her team, who are a part of Raymond James Associates’ Fort Worth branch, left Merrill Lynch in August.
The team serves business owners, corporate executives, family offices and individuals. They report to branch managers Cooper Mickle and Christopher Beavers.
Johnston began her career in 1984 with Prudential and moved to UBS, where she stayed for 21 years before joining Merrill Lynch in 2016, according to BrokerCheck. She is ranked No. 12 this year on Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list and No. 52 on its America’s Top Women Wealth Advisors list.
“At Raymond James, we have found a firm that shares our commitment to client service and advisor independence, which allows us to continue putting our clients first while growing our practice in a way that aligns with our long-term goals,” Johnston said in a statement. “This balance of flexibility and client focus makes the firm a great fit for our team, and we look forward to growing alongside a partner that shares these key values.”
“We are pleased to welcome Melinda and her team to Raymond James. Attracting dedicated and talented advisors who embody our commitment to client service is a top priority,” said Edward Sudzina, Raymond James & Associates’ Western Gulf regional director.