Advisor moves: Cresset draws $1.8B UHNW team from Goldman Sachs

The war for advisor talent is showing no signs of slowing this week, with an elite Goldman team bringing their ultra-high-net-worth expertise to Cresset while a former Raymond James trio makes a fresh start in Florida.

Cresset expands in Atlanta and Jackson Hole

Cresset has welcomed a new advisory team led by Jamie Gilbert, Jean Wright, and Max Ripans, who previously managed more than $1.8 billion in assets at Goldman Sachs. The group will be based in Atlanta and will also establish Cresset’s presence in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

The team brings deep experience working with ultra-high-net-worth families, entrepreneurs, and c-suite executives, with a particular focus on tax and estate planning.

Cresset President Susie Cranston said the new hires share the firm’s “steadfast commitment to helping entrepreneurs and ultra-high-net-worth families create enduring wealth and lasting legacies.” 

Gilbert highlighted Cresset’s vision and culture, as well as its ability to deliver “the sophisticated, holistic family office experience” that clients expect.

Cresset is doubling down on its strategy to attract top advisor talent, tapping Albert Leshinsky from Clearstead Advisors to lead its national strategy.

Insigneo attracts Raymond James trio

International wealth firm Insigneo has added The Americas Financial Group, a newly formed team led by José Cabrera Sr., along with José Cabrera Jr. and Kristina Cabrera.

Previously part of The Americas Group at Raymond James, the three Cabreras have a long track record serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals and institutions in the English-speaking Caribbean. The team’s collective experience includes prior roles at Smith Barney and Morgan Stanley.

José Cabrera Sr. said the move represents “both a continuation and a transformation of our legacy.” His son, José Cabrera Jr., added that the team looks forward to “deepening our client relationships through Insigneo’s global capabilities and comprehensive platform.”

The team will leverage Insigneo’s infrastructure and custodial relationships with BNY Pershing and Goldman Sachs. According to Insigneo market head José Salazar, the addition of the Cabrera team “reinforces our commitment to expanding and strengthening our presence across key international markets.”

Janney adds $800 million in Ohio and New York

Janney Montgomery Scott has also expanded its footprint with the addition of two advisor teams.

GFR & Associates has joined Janney, opening a new office in Hudson, Ohio. The team, led by Garret Ferrara and Michele Ferrara, manages $600 million in client assets and brings more than 100 years of combined experience from UBS.

UBS has been one of the biggest losers in terms of advisor recruitment this year, with some of its top producers walking out the door after it announced changes to its compensation grid for this year. The firm is making adjustments to its comp model in 2026, giving some the chance to earn more based on certain targets, though it remains to be seen how much that could stem or reverse its talent exodus.

In Purchase, New York, Janney has added Jembelis Kinkel Financial Partners, led by Nick Jembelis and Michael Kinkel. The team, previously with David Lerner Associates, manages over $200 million in assets and brings nearly 75 years of combined experience.