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Mindy Diamond on Independence: Sanctuary Wealth $25B LaterMindy Diamond on Independence: Sanctuary Wealth $25B Later

Jim Dickson, founder and CEO of Sanctuary Wealth, recaps the early days of the firm, discusses where it is today and the growth of supported independence, plus shares lessons he's learned along the way.

 

It’s something we say often: Independence isn’t for every advisor.

But as evidenced by this podcast, the model has become an incredible motivator of change in the industry landscape, driving interest in ways like never before. And smart, entrepreneurial leaders seized an opportunity to fill a gap that serves two key purposes:

  1. An independent model that offers a turnkey, supported approach for those who see independence as a bridge too far to go it alone.

  2. An evolved advisor mindset; one more focused on achieving greater freedom and flexibility in servicing clients, as well as building a business for the long-term.

Enter firms like Sanctuary Wealth.

When we first interviewed Jim Dickson, the founder and CEO of Sanctuary, on this podcast 3 years ago, it was evident that he was on to something.

Just off the heels of his 20+ year leadership role at Merrill, he too, was a breakaway. Leaving the wirehouse world behind as a shift in culture was beginning to whittle away at the once entrepreneurial spirit that existed, Jim turned down other offers to pursue what he describes as the “best thing he’s ever done.”

That is, to launch independent platform provider Sanctuary Wealth.

And today, as the firm celebrates its 4th anniversary, they’ve grown to manage some $25 billion in assets, across 25 states with 75 partner firms.

In this episode, Jim outlines his journey with Louis Diamond, recapping the early days of Sanctuary and bringing us up to speed on where the firm is today, including:

  • Sanctuary’s evolution—and what he and his leadership team learned along the way.

  • The growth of supported independence—and why the model has gained such traction over recent years.

  • The firm’s key differentiators—and what their plans are to remain relevant in the long-term.

  • The role of M&A in their plans—and how recent capital infusions play a part in the bigger picture.

Plus, Jim shares an “insider’s perspective” of the wirehouse world he came from—and a prevailing sense of imbalance that’s driving the growth of models like Sanctuary’s.

It’s an episode that depicts how much the industry has changed in just 3 short years—so be sure to listen in.

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About the Authors

Mindy Diamond

Columnist: Career Moves, CEO, Diamond Consultants

https://www.diamond-consultants.com/

Mindy started Diamond Consultants in 1998 from her bedroom floor—and today it’s known as one of the leading consulting and recruiting firms for the industry’s top financial advisors. Drawing from her own entrepreneurial experience, the firm employs a unique relationship-driven approach that helps individuals and organizations achieve what she refers to as their “Best Business Lives.” Mindy hosts the popular podcast series Mindy Diamond on Independence, is a prolific writer and regular media contributor.

For more information, visit: https://www.diamond-consultants.com/team/mindy-diamond/

Louis Diamond

President, Diamond Consultants

Louis has guided many of the top teams in the industry as they’ve transitioned to other employee-model firms or launched RIA firms. And as a next-gen leader himself, Louis has a passion for representing complex multi-generational teams. His strong business acumen, refined analytical skills and objectivity also make Louis an ideal advisor to independent business owners who want to accelerate growth via mergers, acquisitions and recruiting.

A George Washington University magna cum laude graduate with a BBA degree in Finance and International Business, Louis’s resume includes roles at Ernst & Young, Morgan Stanley and UBS.

For more information, visit: https://www.diamond-consultants.com/team/louis-diamond/