What is the difference between an IBD and RIA?

An Independent Broker-Dealer (IBD) allows commission-based product sales plus fee-based accounts. A Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) operates as a fiduciary charging fees on AUM. Many advisors use a hybrid model with both.

Should I use an independent financial advisor recruiter?

Using a platform-agnostic recruiter provides access to more opportunities, confidential exploration, negotiation expertise, and guidance through the transition process. Reputable recruiters charge no fees to advisors.

Independent Financial Advisor Recruiting That Puts You First

Platform-agnostic guidance for financial advisors exploring BD and RIA transitions. We work for you, not any single firm. Our 6C Framework helps you find the right home, not just the biggest check.

Schedule a 30-Minute Alignment Call → How the 6C Framework Works

Rick helped me see past the transition check and focus on what really mattered for my practice long-term. Best career decision I've made.

- Pete R., Financial Advisor, Transition from Insurance BD to Independent BD/RIA

Rick never pushed, just patiently showed me a better path. When I was ready, he was there every step of the way. The results have been transformational.

- Susan C., IBD/RIA to IBD/RIA

The 6C Framework

Our proprietary methodology evaluates every firm across six critical dimensions to find where you'll thrive for the next 10, 15, or 20 years.

Culture Community Compatibility Capability Compensation Capital

Learn How the 6C Framework Works →

Why Advisors Work With Us

Platform-Agnostic

We work with the top firms but aren't beholden to any. You see the full landscape, not one narrow lane.

Long-Term Focus

We optimize for where you'll thrive over the next 20 years, not just the biggest upfront check.

Completely Confidential

Explore options privately. Your current firm will never know unless you choose to move.

Zero Cost to You

Our fee comes from the receiving firm. Your interests stay aligned with ours throughout the process.

Data-Driven Insights

Real market intelligence on what firms are offering, not just what they advertise. Make decisions with full information.

20+ Years of Independent Financial Advisor Recruiting Expertise

Rick Kerstiens

Founder & CEO

"Every firm will promise you the world. I'm here to figure out which one can actually deliver it."

Read Rick's Story →

Continuum Search Group was founded by Rick Kerstiens, a 20+ year veteran of the independent financial advisor recruiting industry. As former Vice President of Recruiting at Kestra Financial, Rick developed the 6C Framework based on thousands of advisor conversations and hundreds of successful placements.

His experience spans leadership roles at Fortune-100 firms, running an independent general agency, and serving as VP of Business Development at Kestra Financial. This insider perspective helps advisors navigate the transition process with confidence - understanding not just the deals on the table, but the real culture and operations behind each firm.

A Simple, Supported Process

No pressure. No guessing. Just a clear, advisor-focused process from first conversation to successful transition.

Confidential Conversation

A private, no-pressure call to understand your goals, concerns, and timing.

6C Assessment

We benchmark your priorities using our framework to clarify what matters most.

Curated Introductions

You meet only firms that align with your values, culture, economics, and long-term fit.

Supported Transition

When you're ready, we help with due diligence, negotiation, timelines, and onboarding so the move feels organized - not overwhelming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do advisors pay for your services?

No. Our compensation comes from a placement fee paid by the receiving firm.

How long does the transition process take?

A typical broker-dealer transition takes 60-90 days from signing to your first day. We recommend starting exploration 4-6 months before your target move date.

Is my exploration confidential?

Absolutely. We never share your information with any firm without explicit permission. Your current firm won't know unless you decide to tell them.

What's the difference between an IBD and RIA?

An IBD allows commission-based sales plus fee-based accounts. An RIA operates as a fiduciary charging fees on AUM. Many advisors use a hybrid model with both.

Should I use an independent recruiter?

A platform-agnostic recruiter provides access to more opportunities, confidential exploration, and negotiation expertise. The key is choosing someone who represents your interests.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

A confidential 30-minute call could clarify your next step. No pressure, no obligation.

Schedule a Call rick@continuumsearchgroup.com