In this episode of “Focused on the Future,” industry veteran Suzanne Syracuse speaks with Rita Robbins, founder and president of Affiliated Advisors, about the changing treatment of women in the finance industry, the importance of focusing on clients' adult children to capture the next generation of wealth, and the critical role of networking in succession planning.
Specifically, Rita explains:
- Her journey: Starting out as a sales assistant, becoming one of the first female wholesalers, and eventually setting up her own company providing services to advisors.
- Influence of motherhood: Having a daughter inspired her to start her own company.
- An industry evolution: The changing treatment of women in finance.
- Next Generation Wealth: How advisors can benefit from focusing on their clients’ adult children to capture the next generation of wealth.
- Charitable Giving: Why Advisors Should Proactively Initiate Charitable Giving Discussions with Clients
- Limitations of AI: Major areas where AI cannot replace the human element.
- Succession Planning: The important role of networking in planning business succession.
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About Rita Robbins:
Rita Robbins combines over 40 years of industry experience with a proactive, personalized approach to help advisors. Since founding Affiliated Advisors in 1994, Rita has been passionate about helping advisors grow dynamic, efficient businesses.
Rita and her partners currently lead over 100 advisors managing over $4.5 billion in assets. Rita has been with Osaic for 20 years. Her unique insight and experience in helping advisors grow and strengthen their marketing has made her a sought-after presence at industry conferences.
In recognition of her exceptional leadership in advancing the business of providing advice with passion, creativity and a drive to help others, Rita was honored as a “Woman to Watch” by Investment News in 2019. In 2020, Crain's recognized Rita as a “Woman to Watch in Financial Services.” Last year, she was the recipient of the Alexander Armstrong Lifetime Achievement Award.
A longtime resident of New York City, Rita and her family enjoy all that the city has to offer. She is an avid fan of the New York City Ballet and proudly serves on the Board of Trustees of Town Hall, a National Historic Landmark. Rita serves on several industry advisory boards. She is co-owner of Lavender Hill Farm, one of the largest commercial lavender farms in the United States.
