Episode 203: Scaling Hightower from $50B to $200B AUM Driving Growth Without Losing Independence

What does it take to scale a $200B wealth management powerhouse while preserving the heart of independent advice? In this episode of the Registered Investment Advisor Podcast, Seth Greene speaks with Bob Oros, Chairman and CEO of Hightower. Bob shares how he transformed a $50B firm into a $200B national wealth management platform by empowering advisors with scale, resources, and entrepreneurial freedom. Drawing on insights from over 50 M&A deals and decades in the industry, Bob discusses leadership lessons, organic growth strategies, and how Hightower helps top advisors deliver extraordinary client experiences. Key Takeaways: → Why successful mergers and acquisitions require saying no to deals that don’t align with your company’s culture and goals. → How communication and culture are central to managing rapid growth while remaining nimble. → How Hightower provides advisors with services that include HR, compliance, finance, centralized investments, and a national trust company. → How advisors can choose which Hightower services to adopt. → Why Hightower focuses on helping advisors free up time and serve clients to attract new clients. Bob Oros is Chairman and CEO of Hightower, a national wealth management firm that invests in and empowers financial advisory businesses to drive growth and help clients achieve ‘well-th. rebalanced.’ Under Bob’s leadership, Hightower has transformed its business and culture, accelerated acquisitions, expanded services for advisors, and achieved consistently strong organic growth. He has over 25 years of strategic and operational experience, with a track record of successfully recruiting, retaining, and supporting advisors. Connect With Bob: https://hightoweradvisors.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@hightoweradvisors?_t=8bPUxPLpCm6&_r=1 https://x.com/hightoweradvsor/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/hightoweradvisors/