The Independent Advisor Alliance has hired two new executives to strengthen its senior management team ahead of a new growth phase.
The North Carolina-based firm, which provides its network of independent financial advisors with solutions and support services to help them boost their business, has hired leaders focused on growth and marketing.
David Buzo was previously with LPL Financial and brings 17 years of experience to IAA in his new role at chief marketing officer. He has also held marketing roles with MassMutual Financial Group, The MONA Group, and MetLife.
"The prospect of leading transformative efforts energizes me, and I am thrilled to join IAA as chief marketing officer,” Buzo said. “I aim to amplify our market presence, cultivate meaningful connections, and contribute to the firm’s continued success and growth. Together, we will reshape the future of financial marketing."
Meanwhile, Topaz Morrison has joined from Northwestern Mutual, where he was a senior director, to take the role of chief growth officer. His previous experience includes roles with LPL Financial, Allianz Life, and Ameriprise Financial.
"IAA is an amazing organization that puts their partner firms front and center in everything they do. By providing comprehensive solutions and support services, they have uniquely positioned themselves to take advantage of the ever-evolving headwinds that impact the financial advice industry," Morrison said. "I'm humbled to partner with Robert and the leadership team to identify and capture the next phase of growth for IAA."
From outstanding individuals to innovative organizations, find out who made the final shortlist for top honors at the IN awards, now in its second year.
Cresset's Susie Cranston is expecting an economic recession, but says her $65 billion RIA sees "great opportunity" to keep investing in a down market.
“There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of volatility of the stock market,” Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co., said.
Sellers shift focus: It's not about succession anymore.
Platform being adopted by independent-minded advisors who see insurance as a core pillar of their business.
RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.
As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.