Encore Financial, an independent financial advisory firm and member of the Affiliated Advisors network, announced that Financial Planning Partners, led by veteran financial advisor Joan Gilles, has joined the firm. The merger adds approximately $90 million in assets under management to Encore from Cetera and represents a major milestone for both organizations as they align around a shared focus on client-centered financial planning.
Joan Gilles said the decision to merge her practice with Encore was driven by a commitment to ensuring long-term continuity for her clients. After spending her career helping families navigate major life transitions, Gilles determined that succession planning for her own practice was the next step in supporting those relationships. She sought a team capable of continuing the same client-focused values for decades into the future.
Founded in 2021, Encore Financial has grown organically from $400 million to more than $1.2 billion in assets under management. The firm now serves clients through a team of 11 advisors and operates with an integrated model that combines in-house portfolio management and tax services. Encore said its growth strategy has focused on identifying advisors and client relationships that align with the firm’s long-term vision.
According to the announcement, Gilles will remain actively involved with clients during a gradual transition period. She plans to work alongside select Encore advisors on long-term planning and relationship management while other team members assume day-to-day client service responsibilities.
The combined practice also strengthens Encore’s emphasis on building a diverse next-generation advisory team. Women currently represent more than 50 percent of the firm’s advisors and leadership team, which was an important consideration for Gilles during the evaluation process.
The transaction was supported by Affiliated Advisors, the independent network through which Encore operates. Affiliated Advisors provides member firms with merger and acquisition guidance, business development resources, and operational infrastructure designed to help advisors maintain independence while scaling their businesses.
KEY QUOTES:
“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. I have known many on the Encore team for years and my decision was driven by their deep commitment to the same client-centered, life-focused approach we have built together.”
Joan Gilles, Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Partners
“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.”
Tyler Armstrong, Co-Founder, Encore Financial
“Joan and the Encore team exemplify what the independent channel is all about, which is experienced advisors who put clients first, build with intention, and take the long view on succession. This is exactly the kind of thoughtful, values-driven growth we are proud to support and we congratulate Joan and the Encore team on this next chapter, and look forward to what this partnership will mean for her clients for years to come.”
Tom Rippberger, Managing Partner, Affiliated Advisors
