Mariner Strengthens Independent Advisory Platform with Strategic Leadership Appointments

Mariner, a national financial services firm, is reinforcing its Mariner Independent platform through the appointment of key leaders, Rob Sandrew as Head of Mariner Independent and Verne Marble as Managing Director. This strategic move aims to address the increasing demand among advisors for flexible affiliation models and sustainable monetization strategies. With over 1,100 advisors and approximately $40 billion in assets under management, Mariner Independent is a pivotal element of Mariner's expansion strategy.

Rob Sandrew's appointment brings a wealth of experience in operational and strategic leadership, previously contributing to significant asset growth as chief growth officer at Integrated Partners. Verne Marble complements the team with his extensive background in distribution and leadership from leading financial services firms. These appointments are timely, aligning with Mariner's period of robust growth, including the acquisition of Ocean Heights Advisors, which offers advisors succession solutions and monetization opportunities within a W-2 structure.

The leadership enhancements are designed to further the platform's evolution, ensuring it remains a top choice for independent advisors seeking growth. Marty Bicknell, CEO and president of Mariner, highlighted the platform's success in balancing independence with the support needed for advisors to scale their practices. Since its launch in 2020, Mariner Independent has provided a full range of services, from back-office support to compliance resources, backed by a team of over 300 professionals. These developments reflect Mariner's ongoing commitment to fostering the independent advisor model, equipping professionals with the necessary tools and support to succeed independently while leveraging the advantages of a national firm.