Financial Planning Partners Merges with Encore Financial to Enhance Client Services

In a significant development within the financial advisory sector, Encore Financial has welcomed Financial Planning Partners, led by veteran advisor Joan Gilles, into its ranks. This merger is notable not just for its scale—bringing in approximately $90 million in assets under management from Cetera—but also for the underlying ethos of continuity and comprehensive service that both firms prioritize.

Joan Gilles: A Commitment to Long-term Client Relationships

For Joan Gilles, the decision to merge was deeply rooted in a commitment to her clients. Throughout her career, she has guided families through various life transitions, and she realized that ensuring the long-term stability of her practice was vital to continue honoring those relationships. Gilles explained, "Providing my clients with the best possible care means planning ahead, not just for their finances, but for the continuity of the advice they rely upon."

This merger serves to reinforce Gilles' dedication to her clients. Having worked closely with many members of the Encore team over the years—who share similar values regarding client-centric, life-focused financial planning—she felt confident she could trust her clients’ futures in their hands.

A Strategic Expansion for Encore Financial

Founded in 2021, Encore Financial has seen dramatic growth, expanding from $400 million to over $1.2 billion in assets under management. This achievement was made possible by their strategic focus on building a team of advisors who are not only skilled but who also share a passion for high-quality, client-first advisory services. Now, with the addition of Financial Planning Partners, the firm consists of 11 advisors working collaboratively to provide a fully integrated approach to wealth management, including in-house portfolio management and tax services.

Tyler Armstrong, co-founder of Encore Financial, emphasized the importance of values in their growth strategy: "Joan's decision to join Encore reflects exactly how we think about building this firm by bringing in the right people who share our values and our commitment to clients. We are building a team that can serve families with excellence for generations, and Joan embodies that mission.”

Gender Diversity and Future Growth

The merger not only strengthens Encore’s client services but also highlights its commitment to diversity. Women already constitute over 50% of the firm’s advisors and leadership, aligning with Gilles' perspective on the importance of inclusive leadership in the financial advisory space. This aspect played a significant role in her decision-making process.

As part of the transition, Gilles will remain actively engaged with her clients, working alongside select Encore advisors to maintain her practice’s legacy of personalized service. This gradual transition approach ensures that her clients will continue to receive the same level of care that they have come to expect, while also allowing Encore to take on day-to-day responsibilities.

Support from Affiliated Advisors

The merger was facilitated through Affiliated Advisors, a network dedicated to empowering independent financial advisory firms. They provide essential support, from mergers and acquisitions guidance to business development resources, enabling firms like Encore to flourish while maintaining their independent spirit. Tom Rippberger, Managing Partner of Affiliated Advisors, noted, “Joan and the Encore team exemplify what the independent channel is all about, which is experienced advisors who put clients first.”

This strategic move stands to enrich the wealth management landscape, not just in terms of client assets but more importantly, in quality of service, depth of relationships, and continuity of care. As these firms combine their talents and resources, the amalgamation promises not just growth, but thoughtful, values-driven evolution.

In conclusion, the merger between Financial Planning Partners and Encore Financial signifies a proactive step towards not only enhancing services but also solidifying the long-term future for existing and new clients alike. With a shared dedication to integrity, focused financial planning, and sustainable practices, both firms are poised to significantly impact the industry in the years to come.