Raymond James Gains Florida Financial Advisors with $210 Million in Assets

Raymond James Expands Florida Presence with advisor Team Addition

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.- August 5, 2025 – Raymond James Financial Services has bolstered its self-reliant advisor channel with the recruitment of Leo Boisvert, MBA, CIMA^®CDFA^®, and Erik Heen, CFP^®. The new team joins Raymond James from an undisclosed firm and manages approximately $210 million in client assets.

Todd Gartrell, Southeast divisional director for RJFS, announced the addition, highlighting the firm’s continued growth in the florida market.Boisvert and Heen bring a wealth of experience to Raymond James, specializing in financial planning and wealth management services for individuals and families.

“We are pleased to welcome Leo and Erik to Raymond James,” saeid Gartrell. “their commitment to client service and financial expertise align perfectly with our firm’s values. This addition underscores our dedication to supporting independent advisors and expanding our reach in key markets.”

The Growing Appeal of Independent Financial advice

The move reflects a broader trend within the financial services industry: a growing preference among advisors for independence. Independent financial advisors frequently enough have greater adaptability in choosing investment products and tailoring advice to meet the specific needs of their clients. This model allows them to prioritize client interests without the potential conflicts of interest that can arise within larger, vertically integrated firms.

Raymond James, known for its advisor-centric approach, has been actively recruiting experienced financial professionals to its independent channel. the firm provides advisors with a complete suite of resources, including technology platforms, investment research, and marketing support, enabling them to build and grow their practices.

Understanding CIMA^® and CFP^® Designations

For investors, understanding the credentials of their financial advisor is crucial. Leo Boisvert’s CIMA^® (Certified Investment Management Analyst) designation signifies specialized knowledge in advanced investment management techniques. The CDFA^® (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) credential indicates expertise in the financial aspects of divorce, a growing area of need for many individuals.

Erik heen’s CFP^® (Certified Financial Planner) certification demonstrates a commitment to comprehensive financial planning, covering areas such as retirement planning, estate planning, and insurance. These designations represent a dedication to professional development and ethical standards.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

How does Raymond James’ expansion in florida align with broader trends in financial advisor movement?

Expansion in the Sunshine State: A Strategic Move

Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE: RJF) continues its strategic growth trajectory with the recent acquisition of financial advisors managing approximately $210 million in client assets. This expansion focuses on bolstering its presence in Florida, a key market for wealth management firms. The advisors joined from various firms, signaling a continued trend of movement within the financial advisory landscape. This influx represents a important win for Raymond james, strengthening its competitive position in the region.

Details of the Advisor Groups & Locations

The newly onboarded advisors represent a diverse range of experience and specialties. While Raymond James has not publicly disclosed the names of all advisors, the additions span several Florida locations, including:

South Florida: A team specializing in retirement planning and wealth accumulation for high-net-worth individuals.

Central Florida: An advisor focused on serving small business owners with comprehensive financial solutions.

Tampa Bay Area: An experienced financial planner with a strong track record in estate planning and investment management.

This geographic distribution allows raymond James to broaden its reach and cater to a wider client base across the state. The firm’s commitment to florida is evident in these targeted acquisitions.

Why Florida? The Appeal for Financial Advisors

Florida remains a highly attractive market for financial advisors for several key reasons:

Population Growth: Florida is one of the fastest-growing states in the US, attracting new residents and increasing the potential client base.

Favorable Tax Climate: The state’s lack of state income tax is a significant draw for retirees and high-income earners.

strong Economy: Florida’s diverse economy, including tourism, real estate, and healthcare, provides a stable habitat for financial planning.

Retirement Destination: A large and growing retiree population creates considerable demand for wealth management and retirement planning services.

these factors make Florida a prime location for financial advisors seeking to expand their businesses and serve a thriving clientele. The state’s demographic trends are expected to continue supporting growth in the financial services sector.

Raymond James’ Growth Strategy: Attracting Top Talent

Raymond James has consistently focused on attracting experienced financial advisors through a variety of strategies:

Competitive Compensation: Offering attractive payout structures and benefits packages.

Technology & Resources: Providing advisors with cutting-edge technology platforms and comprehensive support services.

culture of Independence: Fostering a culture that values advisor autonomy and client relationships.

Focus on Financial Planning: Emphasizing a holistic approach to financial planning, rather than solely focusing on investment products.

This approach has proven successful in attracting advisors seeking a supportive and growth-oriented environment. The firm’s emphasis on client-first service resonates with advisors who prioritize building long-term relationships.

Impact on Raymond James’ Assets Under Management (AUM)

The addition of $210 million in assets under management (AUM) contributes to Raymond James’ overall growth and strengthens its position as a leading wealth management firm. This increase in AUM translates to:

Increased Revenue: Higher AUM generates increased fee-based revenue for the firm.

Enhanced Market Share: Expanding AUM strengthens Raymond James’ market share in the competitive wealth management industry.

Greater Scale: Increased scale allows for greater investment in technology, research, and advisor support.

These benefits contribute to Raymond James’ long-term financial performance and ability to serve its clients effectively. Tracking AUM growth is a key metric for investors and industry analysts.

The Broader trend: Advisor Movement in 2025

The movement of financial advisors between firms is a continuing trend in 2025. Several factors are driving this activity:

Changing Advisor Preferences: Advisors are increasingly seeking firms that offer greater independence, technology support, and cultural alignment.

Competitive Landscape: Intense competition among wealth management firms is driving firms to actively recruit top talent.

succession Planning: Many advisors are considering succession planning options, leading to transitions and firm changes.

Regulatory Changes: Evolving regulatory requirements are influencing advisor decisions and firm strategies.

This dynamic environment creates opportunities for firms like Raymond James to capitalize on advisor movement and expand their businesses.Staying abreast of these trends is crucial for success in the wealth management industry.

Understanding Financial Advisor Transitions: A Checklist

For advisors considering a move, here’s a speedy checklist:

1. Due Diligence: Thoroughly research potential firms, considering their culture, technology, and support services.
2. client Communication: Develop a clear communication plan to inform clients of the transition.
3. legal & Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and legal requirements.
4. Transition Support: Evaluate the level of transition support offered by the new firm.
5. Financial Modeling: Analyze the financial implications of the move, including compensation and payout structures.

resources for Financial Advisors & Investors

Raymond James Website: https://www.raymondjames.com/

Financial Planning Association (FPA): [https://wwwfpanetorg/[https://wwwfpanetorg/