Beyond AUM Named Finalist in 2026 ThinkAdvisor Luminaries Awards

The firm’s approach centers on a multi-year partnership model, often beginning four to five years before an owner decides to exit. By embedding themselves into the RIA’s growth strategy long before a deal reaches the table, Beyond AUM consultants develop institutional knowledge that standard brokers lack. This methodology prioritizes critical post-closing factors such as client communication, staff retention, and digital continuity.

Beyond AUM shifted the typical broker compensation structure by pairing retainers with success fees, a change they claim allows sellers to retain up to 5.5 percent more of their exit value. This strategy was recently applied during the 2026 acquisition of Financial Connections Group by Apella Wealth and the 2025 acquisition of The Humphreys Group by Treehouse Wealth Advisors. In the latter, the firm managed a comprehensive one-year integration roadmap, including staff career pathing and the preservation of SEO and AIO assets.

Co-founder Gretchen Halpin noted that the firm’s service line originated from guiding advisor Kimberly Foss through her firm’s sale to Mercer Advisors. The service has since evolved into a dedicated practice, with the firm having guided seven major engagements to date. This nomination marks the second time Beyond AUM has received industry recognition from ThinkAdvisor, following a 2021 win in the Thought Leadership category.