Two major wealth management platforms are expanding their advisor ranks with the addition of independent firms overseeing a combined $550 million in client assets, underscoring continued momentum in advisor affiliation activity.
Osaic has announced that Heather Hackett and her Long Beach, California-based firm, Financial Planning Department, have joined its network from LPL Financial-owned Commonwealth Financial Network. The women-led practice oversees approximately $352 million in assets.
Financial Planning Department focuses on helping clients navigate pivotal financial moments through integrated planning that spans investments, tax planning and preparation, and risk management. The team serves a multigenerational client base, from early-career professionals to retirees, pairing technical proficiency with practical experience to tailor advice.
Hackett said the firm selected Osaic after reviewing multiple options, citing its advisor-focused culture, unified technology capabilities and infrastructure designed to help entrepreneurial firms expand without sacrificing independence. The move is intended to support the firm’s next phase of growth while maintaining its client-centric model.
“Heather and her team represent the entrepreneurial-minded advisors who thrive on Osaic’s platform,” said Kristen Kimmell, executive vice president of business development at Osaic. "We're proud to support a highly credentialed, women-led team committed to delivering comprehensive financial planning and tax-focused strategies. Our platform provides the flexibility and resources they need to scale their business and continue making a meaningful impact for their clients.”
Separately, RFG Advisory added Black Oak Asset Management, an Alpharetta, Georgia-based independent advisory firm with more than $200 million in client assets.
The firm is led by Ryan Ledden, CFP, RICP, and serves clients throughout the Southeast. The partnership reflects Black Oak’s planning-driven philosophy and is designed to enhance operational scale and execution while preserving the firm’s independence and longstanding client relationships.
“Firms like Black Oak are why RFG exists - for Advisors who refuse to compromise on ownership, growth, or the future they’re building,” said Shannon Spotswood, CEO of RFG Advisory. “Ryan and his team have built a deeply client-focused business grounded in planning, education and long-term relationships. RFG provides the infrastructure, resources, and support that allow firms like Black Oak to scale deliberately while preserving what makes their business unique.”
Black Oak joins RFG with a five-advisor roster that includes Ledden, Nick Morgan, RICP, Autumn Mower, Damon Gibbs and Rick Howard, along with project manager and advisor support lead Andrea Roche and client service associate Chloe Miller.
The addition advances RFG’s broader strategy of aligning with independent firms seeking to refine execution, streamline operations and build long-term enterprise value while enhancing the client experience.
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