We, the editors of Registered Rep. magazine, are officially opening our annual hunt for the best in the business. That's right, we're asking for nominations for the Outstanding Advisor Awards (formerly Outstanding Broker Awards). Now in its 28th year, the OAAs are awarded to 10 veteran financial advisors who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism. Entrants are judged on productivity (the advisor must be among the top 25 percent of his or her firm in terms of gross production to be considered), but winners should also possess other qualities. We're looking for FAs who are civic-minded (extensively involved in community or charitable work, for example), as well as FAs who are known to be mentors to others at their firms or in their advisory practices.
There are a couple of other hard-and-fast rules. We look for a minimum of three years in the industry as a producing rep/RIA/IAR; a minimum of one year with the FA's present firm; and a clean compliance record. (Please send full names because all nominees' U-4s will be checked; if you know the candidate's CRD number, include that in your submission as well). Further, a nominee cannot be a previous OAA winner. Three references are necessary (with phone numbers).
In addition, the nomination requires that you write a short essay telling us why this person should be named an Outstanding Advisor. Describe what makes this person a poster child for the industry. Be brief: A couple hundred words should suffice. Again, remember that the essay is an important part of the nomination. A description of the kind of practice the entrant has is a good start, but we also need examples of the FA's non-business activities, and perhaps an anecdote or two that illustrates the person's character. All applications are confidential.
In May, Rep. and a sponsor will be holding a gala award ceremony at the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square. Attendees will be flown to New York and lodged for a night at Registered Rep. magazine's expense. To enter a friend, colleague or boss (or even yourself): Go to www.registeredrep.com/oaa, where you will find instructions and a link to the nomination form.
(We thank you for your support. Drop us a line with your comments at: 249 W. 17th St., New York, N.Y. 10011-5300. Or email us at [email protected]. Publisher Rich Santos can be reached at [email protected].)
