Mariner Secures Strategic Investment from Neuberger Berman Capital Solutions

Mariner, a prominent national financial services firm, has announced a strategic partnership with Neuberger Berman Capital Solutions (NB Capital Solutions) and funds managed by Neuberger Berman Private Markets (NB). This collaboration involves a significant minority growth investment in Mariner, marking a pivotal moment in the company's trajectory within the wealth management sector.

The investment from NB joins the existing stake held by Leonard Green & Partners (LGP), which made a minority investment in Mariner in 2021. LGP will retain its entire investment, underscoring continued confidence in Mariner's growth potential. Marty Bicknell, Mariner's Chief Executive Officer and President, will continue to lead the firm, ensuring continuity in its strategic direction and client-focused approach.

Mariner has established itself as a fast-growing leader in the financial services industry, offering a comprehensive suite of wealth advisory solutions. These services encompass financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, estate and tax planning, and insurance products. The firm, along with its affiliates, currently oversees more than $245 billion in combined assets under management and advisement, highlighting its substantial market presence.

The strategic investment from NB Capital Solutions is expected to catalyze Mariner's ambitious growth plans. The firm aims to scale its national advisor base to 5,000 advisors through both organic growth—leveraging strategic alliances and referral partnerships—and inorganic expansion via strategic acquisitions. This influx of growth capital will enable Mariner to accelerate its operational scaling and inorganic growth initiatives while maintaining its unwavering commitment to client-first service.

The partnership with NB Capital Solutions not only brings additional financial resources but also strategic support to Mariner. This investment recognizes Mariner's exceptional position within the wealth management industry, bolstered by its consistently strong net organic growth, successful advisor recruitment and retention, and industry-leading branding efforts. Following the investment, Bicknell will maintain majority control of Mariner's board of directors, with NB receiving board representation and LGP continuing its board presence.

This strategic move holds significant implications for the wealth management industry. It signals a trend of increased institutional investment in leading financial advisory firms, reflecting the sector's growth potential and the demand for comprehensive, client-focused wealth management services. For Mariner, this partnership provides the resources and expertise to potentially reshape the landscape of financial advice delivery, potentially setting new standards for personalized, holistic financial planning.

The investment also underscores the growing importance of scale and technological innovation in the financial services sector. With additional capital and strategic guidance, Mariner is well-positioned to invest in cutting-edge technologies and expand its service offerings, potentially leading to improved client outcomes and more efficient operations.

For clients and potential clients of Mariner, this development suggests an expansion of services and capabilities, potentially offering access to a broader range of financial solutions and expertise. The firm's commitment to maintaining its client-first approach while scaling operations indicates a focus on balancing growth with quality of service.

As Mariner embarks on this new chapter, the wealth management industry will be watching closely. The success of this partnership could set a precedent for similar collaborations in the future, potentially accelerating consolidation and innovation within the sector. For Mariner, the challenge and opportunity lie in leveraging this investment to enhance its market position while continuing to deliver exceptional value to its growing client base.