Equitable, a leading financial services organization and principal franchise of Equitable Holdings announced that Mark and Jeff Spencer, a father-son team, Jerome Hartl, CMT, and Kirt Kilbourne have joined its wealth management business, Equitable Advisors. This group of experienced advisors moved their practices from Wedbush Securities, where they managed more than $500 million in combined client assets. Based out of Traverse City, Michigan, the advisors were drawn to Equitable Advisors for its independence model and technology capabilities that enhance the client experience.
Mark and Jeff Spencer, who collectively have over 50 years of experience and serve approximately $460 million in client assets as a multi-generational practice, will operate as Perennial Wealth Management by moving to Equitable Advisors. They also pointed to the culture at Equitable Advisors as a reason for selecting the firm.
Jerome Hartl, CMT, also moved his practice to Equitable Advisors for its digital tools and comprehensive resources, such as access to leading market research. And Hartl has nearly 30 years of experience helping clients meet their financial goals and manages over $45 million in client assets.
As part of the transition, Kirt Kilbourne joined Equitable Advisors to help oversee the operations for both the Spencers’ and Hartl’s practices. Kilbourne, who has more than 30 years of financial advisor experience, will continue to serve his existing clients. The four advisors are joined by Leslie MacKinnon, who leads client services to support their practices. As a vital team member, Leslie will continue to ensure the consistency and excellence of the client experience.
With approximately $94 billion in assets under administration1 as of June 30, 2024, Equitable Advisors has more than 4,300 financial professionals nationwide. Experienced advisors who join Equitable Advisors benefit from the firm’s supported independence model, which provides robust capabilities, resources, and unparalleled operational infrastructure. This includes an open-architecture platform, leading technology, marketing tools, and real estate, as well as support with succession planning, team formation, and compliance.
KEY QUOTES:
“Jeff and I value the flexibility to run our own practice, while having the technology and support to ensure a smooth transition. It was critical for us to partner with a firm like Equitable Advisors that has the resources and tools to help us continue meeting the financial planning needs of our clients for generations to come.”
- Mark Spencer
“My father and I have been impressed by the caliber of people we’ve interacted with at Equitable Advisors, and the fact that many have been with the firm for decades. We sought a long-term relationship much like the ones we’ve built with our clients, so this was meaningful for us.”
- Jeff Spencer
“As an advisor who collaborates with clients to create individually tailored portfolios, access to insightful market research is invaluable. The quality and depth of these resources at Equitable Advisors was a key factor in my decision. In addition, Equitable Advisors’ leading technology will help take our client service and support to the next level.”
- Jerome Hartl
