Independent Advisor Alliance enters Illinois with $165M team

Independent Advisor Alliance enters Illinois with $165M team
The newest practice to affiliate with the firm is leaving Securities America after more than 30 years.
MAR 06, 2024

A national wealth management firm is extending its footprint into a new market as it welcomes an Illinois-based advisor team from Securities America. With its headquarters in St. Charles, just outside Chicago, Steward Guide Wealth Partners is transitioning to Independent Advisor Alliance.

The move is a significant milestone for IAA as it marks the firm’s debut in Illinois, effectively extending its footprint to 27 states, according to a spokesperson for the North Carolina-based firm.

Steward Guide Wealth Partners manages more than $165 million in client assets, offering bespoke financial planning services catered to individuals, families, and businesses within the community.

It’s led by co-founders Ron Harczak and Jim Vanderbilt, who together with their team bring more than a century of collective experience in the financial services arena.

Harczak has been nearly four decades of experience, according to his BrokerCheck report, and Vanderbilt has been registered with Finra for roughly the same period. Both had been affiliated with Securities America for about 30 years.

Steward Guide Wealth Partners sees its strategic partnership with IAA as a pivotal step, aligning with its commitment to excellence in client service as well as a focus on succession planning.

“As we continue our commitment to providing our clients with the best possible wealth management solutions and experience, it is clear that IAA has the resources to help us accomplish our mission,” Harczak said in a statement.

Reflecting Steward Guide Wealth Partners’ emphasis on providing comprehensive financial planning coupled with integrity and devotion, Vanderbilt also highlighted “the opportunity for our clients to align their faith with their finances."

“We are thrilled to welcome Steward Guide Wealth Partners to the IAA family,” said Robert Russo, IAA founder and CEO. “Their dedication to providing tailored financial planning services aligns perfectly with our mission, and we look forward to supporting them on their journey towards continued success and growth.”

Small-caps set to benefit from a broadening market, says Royce co-CIO

Latest News

Advisor moves: Nebraska RIA crosses $1 billion after absorbing ex-RBC team
Advisor moves: Nebraska RIA crosses $1 billion after absorbing ex-RBC team

Meanwhile, Raymond James snags Edward Jones advisor in Arizona.

Workers want financial help from employers and they're ready to walk if they don't get it
Workers want financial help from employers and they're ready to walk if they don't get it

New Morgan Stanley research shows retirement planning is a key area where advice is required.

SEC kills 'gag rule' that silenced thousands of settling defendants for over 50 years
SEC kills 'gag rule' that silenced thousands of settling defendants for over 50 years

ASA reacts as regulator drops no-deny policy, freeing firms and individuals to publicly dispute allegations after reaching settlements.

Washington state regulators claim advisor was running Ponzi-like fund
Washington state regulators claim advisor was running Ponzi-like fund

Joel Frank allegedly sold more than $39 million worth of investments in the Equilus Funds to more than 90 investors.

Bipartisan bill aims to take down 401(k) charitable giving hurdle
Bipartisan bill aims to take down 401(k) charitable giving hurdle

The Charity Parity Act would eliminate a costly IRA rollover requirement that blocks direct charitable transfers from workplace retirement plans.

SPONSORED Beyond wealth management: Why the future of advice is becoming more human

As technical expertise becomes increasingly commoditized, advisors who can integrate strategy, relationships, and specialized expertise into a cohesive client experience will define the next era of wealth management

SPONSORED Durability over scale: What actually defines a great advisory firm

Growth may get the headlines, but in my experience, longevity is earned through structure, culture, and discipline