Steward Partners Expands to Arizona with New Advisor Team Acquisition

Steward Partners Expands Its Footprint in Arizona with Desert Sky Advisors

In a significant move to enhance its western operations, Steward Partners, an employee-owned independent financial services firm, has officially established its presence in Arizona through the acquisition of Desert Sky Advisors. This strategic addition brings with it $225 million in assets under management and marks Steward’s inaugural office in the state.

Desert Sky Advisors operates from Scottsdale and Gilbert, and since its inception in 2016, has specialized in tailored wealth management solutions aimed at high-net-worth individuals. The firm’s comprehensive offerings include investment planning, estate strategies, tax management, risk assessment, and retirement services. The goal is to provide clients with personalized guidance to achieve their financial objectives.

Matt Clay, Managing Director at Desert Sky Advisors, expressed enthusiasm for the transition, stating, "Joining Steward Partners is an affirmation of our commitment to providing unparalleled service to our clientele. The extensive back-office support that Steward provides equips us to deliver even better advisory services through essential growth opportunities for our practice."

This integration aligns with Steward Partners' ongoing strategy to expand its national footprint, particularly in the southwestern United States. Jeff Gonyo, Head of Wealth Management at Steward Partners, emphasized the shared values between both firms, noting how the name 'Desert Sky' reflects both the geographical beauty of Arizona and the mission of guiding clients through life’s transitions.

As Desert Sky Advisors teams integrate into the larger framework of Steward Partners, they will not only carry forth their established client relationships but also enhance their business capabilities. This expansion to Arizona is a clear indication of Steward’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment where advisors can grow, which ultimately leads to better outcomes for clients.

Since its establishment in 2013, Steward Partners has emerged as one of the fastest-growing registered investment advisors (RIA) in the industry. The firm was recently celebrated on USA TODAY’s Best Financial Advisory Firms 2025 list for its outstanding client service and impressive asset management growth. Additionally, several of Steward’s advisors have been recognized on prominent national lists, including Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors and InvestmentNews’ Top Financial Advisors.

Steward Partners stands out with its collective commitment to client-first values and operational excellence. As it embraces more wealth management firms like Desert Sky Advisors, the organization continues to refine its mission to deliver exceptional services in a highly competitive field.

About Steward Partners

Steward Partners proudly represents leading financial advisors across the United States, offering a comprehensive range of wealth management solutions tailored for families, businesses, and multi-generational investors. With an emphasis on camaraderie and transparency, the firm nurtures a positive culture that has been pivotal to its growth. As of January 2025, Steward Partners manages over $40 billion in client assets, establishing itself as a leader in the financial advisory landscape.

To discover more about Steward Partners and its offerings, visit www.stewardpartners.com.

Recognition and Rankings

The firm’s accolades, including its appearance on Forbes’ and InvestmentNews’ prestigious lists, underscore its dedication to maintaining high standards in client service and achieving exceptional financial results. These recognitions are not merely a reflection of past successes but a continuing commitment to exceeding client expectations in every engagement.

With the addition of Desert Sky Advisors, Steward Partners is not only expanding its geographical footprint but is also enriching its capabilities by integrating top-tier talent and resources, reinforcing its status as a distinguished leader in wealth management.