Raymond James has recruited a team of five financial advisors who managed more than $1 billion in client assets for Merrill Lynch in New York, according to a press release.

The team, led by Christopher Scott, Kevin Klein, Michael Gates, and Salvatore Gandolfo joined Raymond James & Associates (RJA), the firm's employee advisor channel in Williamsville, N.Y.  Financial advisor Jeffrey Baker and client relationship associates Alicia Birch, Jaclyn Greiner, Christina Ivancic and Elia Criola joined the advisors at the new office, led by complex manager Gary Hernandez.

Their firm, Scott Klein Gates Gandolfo Wealth Management of Raymond James, serves business owners, endowments and foundations, families and individuals, retirees and retirement plans.

“The culture and leadership at Raymond James were key factors in our decision to transition to the firm,” Scott, the firm's managing director for wealth management, said in a statement. “Knowing that much of the firm’s leadership comes from a financial advising background means they have experienced the same policies we do, fostering a deeper sense of accountability and shared values.”

Kelly Anderson, Northeast regional director for RJA, said the team’s “dedication to client service and alignment with our firm’s values make them an impactful addition to our Northeastern division.”