Advisor moves: Raymond James, Callan and Prosperity make strategic advisor hires to fuel expansion

Advisor moves: Raymond James, Callan and Prosperity make strategic advisor hires to fuel expansion
Firms add talent across North Carolina, Michigan, Southern California to deepen family office, wealth reach.
MAR 20, 2026

A trio of wealth management firms is strengthening its advisor ranks and geographic footprint, highlighting continued competition for experienced talent and specialized capabilities across the independent advice channel.

Raymond James has recruited financial advisors Nicholas Nielsen, Jeffrey Walters and William Miller in North Carolina, a team collectively overseeing about $328 million in client assets. The trio joined the firm’s Private Client Group, bringing established client relationships and local market experience as Raymond James continues to prioritize advisor recruiting as a key growth lever.

The hires are expected to support the firm’s broader expansion strategy by enhancing its presence in the Southeast and deepening access to planning, investment and wealth management services for affluent households.

Callan Family Office is also expanding its advisory bench through the addition of the team from Clarity Family Offices, based in Ada, Michigan, and focusing on ultra-wealthy families and single family offices.

The incoming professionals bring an average of more than two decades of experience advising entrepreneurs and ultra-high-net-worth clients on governance structures, family enterprise planning and complex wealth strategies.

The firm said the partnership will enhance its ability to deliver integrated investment advisory and family office services. Callan surpassed $10 billion in assets under management earlier in 2026, growth it said was achieved organically.

Clarity director of family wealth strategy John Grzybek said the combination will allow the firm’s consulting-driven approach to reach a broader set of families through Callan’s platform and resources.

Separately, Prosperity is expanding into Southern California with the additions of senior wealth advisors Keon Khamsehpour and Merryll McElwain.

McElwain, based in Los Angeles, brings 18 years of experience providing financial planning and investment management, along with pre-transaction planning for entrepreneurs and advice tailored to clients in sports and entertainment. She also specializes in wealth transfer strategies.

Khamsehpour, who will be based in La Jolla, has 15 years of experience working with entrepreneurs, executives, business owners and multi-generational families. His focus areas include portfolio construction, alternative investments and private markets, as well as estate planning and wealth transfer.

"Southern California represents an important growth market for Prosperity, and we are proud to welcome professionals of Keon's and Merryll's experience and reputation," said Prosperity President Michele Martin. "They bring deep expertise, strong external relationships, and a shared commitment to delivering thoughtful, long-term wealth solutions for clients."

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