A nationally-recognized Financial Advisor recruiting expert, Michael Terrana founded TERRANA GROUP in 1992 and has helped several thousands of the country’s top wealth managers and Advisors expand their horizons and find success.
After graduating with honors from Chicago’s Northeastern Illinois University, Michael gained valuable experience starting out at a wirehouse, progressing into leadership, and owning an Independent BD Firm. Michael also owned a technology consulting firm where he served as a managing partner specializing in placing IT and technology talent and developed a gift for retained executive search solutions.
“I found that I really loved the business development aspect of being a manager. All along, though, I always wanted to have my own firm. I’ve always felt the pull of an entrepreneurial spirit and the desire to be able to do exactly what I wanted to do, when I wanted to do it.” — Michael Terrana
Our CEO’s unique perspective also enabled him to evolve into a leading business development consultant for Broker Dealers, RIAs, and other industry professionals looking to escape the constraints of the wirehouse and find a more individualized path. From inspiring Advisors with an entrepreneurial bent to offering expert guidance on the best turn-key breakaway models, the TERRANA GROUP team has been dedicated to ensuring over 3000 successful Advisor transitions over 31 years under Michael’s consulting and recruiting guidance for broker dealers and independent financial services firms serving institutional and high-net-worth clients.
What are the secrets behind this dynamic firm’s longevity, and what does the future hold for the wealth management recruiting space?
A Passionate Purpose
One of Michael’s great strengths is forging robust relationships with business leaders and Advisors in the global marketplace. He considers open and honest communication essential for success and continuing growth. The financial services world is built on trust, and credibility is everything.
At the heart of our success lies an unwavering enthusiasm for empowering Advisors and connecting them with their ideal career environment. TERRANA GROUP stays on the cutting edge of the latest industry trends and we’re keenly invested in helping candidates leverage their skills to achieve their dreams.
Since day one, our mission has been clear: to create a thriving ecosystem that fosters growth and prosperity for financial experts and their clients. This promise has driven us forward and has kept us in alignment with the ever-changing landscape of the financial industry.
Over more than three decades, Michael has meticulously cultivated a reputation for reliability, transparency, and integrity. It’s a commitment that has led to an ever-growing network of thriving Advisors and TERRANA GROUP’s position as the longest-tenured financial services recruiting firm in the industry.
Embracing Innovation
Our people-focused approach gives Advisors who are considering a move to a more independent model a competitive edge. But not all financial services recruiters are the same.
Through in-depth, one-on-one conversations, TERRANA GROUP offers our clients unparalleled insights and knowledge. We understand the nuances of matching an Advisor’s talents and goals with the most coveted opportunities.
This strategy allows us to center on building long-term relationships and serve as a rock in the highly dynamic wealth management space. The industry is in a perpetual state of motion, and the only way to stay strong is by embracing change and innovation.
To remain at the forefront of this realm, we adapt our strategies, processes, and technology to complement emerging trends and advancements. By staying ahead of the curve, we have ensured that our clients receive the most efficient and effective solutions for moving forward, making us an indispensable resource throughout the ecosystem.
“Many Advisors today are realizing that they need to get away from the employee wirehouse space where they are being managed to the lowest common denominator, speaking to policy and procedure oversight and compliance, and need to own their book of business in the Independent space, where they are more efficient, more effective, and have the ability to respond to their client’s needs in a far more nimble way.” — Michael Terrana
Driving Further Growth
One of the main reasons Advisors’ interest in new possibilities is growing rapidly is because of the desire for more freedom and the ability to create a practice that reflects their beliefs and values.
Organic growth comes from continuous reinvestment in sustainability, education, and building strategic partnerships. TERRANA GROUP’s depth of institutional knowledge nurtures a vibrant company culture that offers fertile ground for advancement and mentorship.
As we continue to scale responsibly, we have brought to our team former Advisors and leaders across many channels of the financial services industry. These experts add an exceptional facet to our value proposition.
We help financial services professionals and wealth management professionals overcome the fear gap and explore “the ability to spread your wings in a way you never thought you could,” according to Samantha Sferas, TERRANA GROUP’s Chief Operating Officer.
As we bask in the glow of 31 years in business, we are immensely proud of the journey that has brought us to this milestone. Our organization is a testament to the power of dedication, teamwork, and a client-focused mindset.
With our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and those we serve, we will be shaping the financial advisor recruiting landscape for years to come. Thank you for being an integral part of our ecosystem, and we look forward to an even brighter future together.
