Waddell & Reed, Inc. adds to national recruiting presence with new regional director of advisor acquisition
Oct. 17, 2019 – Waddell & Reed, Inc. has further expanded its recruiting resources with the hiring of the second of three regional advisor acquisition leaders. Mark J. Hovanic has been named regional director of advisor acquisition for the East, bringing 20 years' experience in the financial services industry to his new role. He most recently served as Wells Fargo Advisors' director of brokerage for the Mid-Atlantic region.
The regional directors of advisor acquisition work closely with Waddell & Reed field leaders and the home office recruiting team to attract, build relationships with and ultimately convert experienced, independent financial advisors to Waddell & Reed. Hovanic joins Steve Bielke, regional director of the Central region, with the West regional director expected to be named later this year. "Mark's background as a financial advisor and later a leader of advisors and managers aligns seamlessly with the regional director role," says David Call, vice president of advisor acquisition for Waddell & Reed, Inc. "He brings passion and commitment to excellence, and we couldn't be more pleased to have him lead the East region."
As part of its ongoing effort to enhance its recruiting resources, Waddell & Reed recently added three internal advisor acquisition specialists and a recruiting consultant. The firm also is reinvigorating its focus on advisor retention by advancing its support, service and overall experience for its existing national network of independent advisors. This strategic evolution focuses on technology enhancements, product expansion, increased compensation and broadening support through programs such as the Great Practice Solutions customized practice development program and the Wealth Solutions Group team of credentialed product and sales support experts.