Cetera this week announced the launch of its registered investment adviser (RIA) and Branches Channel, along with the hiring of Jen Hanau, its new RIA and Branches Channel leader.
The new RIA and Branches Channel will manage Cetera’s independent RIA services, W-2 employee-based RIA models, and supported independent businesses.
Cetera’s RIA and Branches Channel has more than 600 advisors overseeing approximately $33.5 billion in total client assets as of March 2025. The new RIA and Branches Channel encompasses Cetera’s offerings within communities, including:
- Avantax Planning Partners – a tax-focused, hybrid W-2 RIA model that partners with CPA firms to provide their clients with holistic wealth management services built on tax and financial planning.
- Cetera Investors – a network of more than 40 branch offices enabling financial advisors to operate independently, backed by the infrastructure, compliance, and operational support of a Cetera-managed branches model.
- Cetera Blueprint – a community that supports Cetera advisors in realizing the benefits of owning their own RIA with the assistance of an experienced partner, as well as advisors who are on the path to building an RIA.
- The Retirement Planning Group (TRPG) – a fee-only, W-2 RIA model providing clients with wealth management services through comprehensive planning.
“The launch of our RIA and Branches Channel marks a significant milestone in Cetera’s evolution, underscoring our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of advisors and clients,” said Cetera Wealth Management President Todd Mackay. “Jen Hanau’s extensive experience and visionary leadership make her the ideal choice to spearhead this channel, and we are confident that under her guidance, our RIA and Branches Channel will set new standards for excellence and innovation.”
Hanau joins Cetera from Mariner, where she served as national managing director of the firm’s independent channels. In that role, she expanded the platform and enhanced its full-service support model, focused on helping advisors deliver exceptional client experiences. Prior to Mariner, Hanau held leadership positions at Fidelity Investments and Charles Schwab, with a focus on advisor recruitment and consulting on the benefits of the RIA model.
“I’m honored to lead Cetera’s RIA and Branches Channel and am excited to build a platform prioritizing clients’ best interests,” said Hanau. “Cetera’s commitment to innovation and advisor support aligns perfectly with my passion for empowering advisors to achieve their professional goals while delivering exceptional service to their clients.”
Hanau will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies, leading client-facing teams, and driving business growth through innovative and collaborative efforts. Hanau’s hiring reflects Cetera’s dedication to attracting and retaining top talent.
The new RIA and Branches Channel joins Cetera’s existing channels – the Advisor Channel, Institutions Channel, Large Enterprise Channel, and Tax & Accounting Channel.
Amanda Umpierrez is the Managing Editor of 401(k) Specialist magazine. She is a financial services reporter with nearly a decade of experience and a passion for telling stories and reporting news. She is originally from Queens, New York, but now resides in Denver, Colorado.