Paul Sullivan

Founder, Managing Partner

I am the founder and managing partner of Wealth Management Independence (WMI), a boutique Wall Street firm that provides editorial and training content for Financial Advisors who work in the independent channel. First, I write and publish industry-specific editorials on my LinkedIn page weekly. Second, I built this website to help my Big 4 Financial Advisor colleagues (Merrill, Morgan, UBS & Wells) better understand the rewarding benefits of independence.

I spent the past 3 years at two independent firms - Steward Partners (1 year) and Sanctuary Wealth (2 years). Both firms did an excellent job helping Financial Advisors transition from the Big 4 to Independence.

Before moving to the independent channel, I spent 34 years at Merrill Lynch. I was the Managing Director and Market Executive of Merrill’s flagship office, SD Financial, headquartered in lower Manhattan. I also managed Merrill’s Brooklyn and Staten Island offices.

I believe Financial Advisors are a distinct advantage in helping high-net-worth Americans achieve their goals. The advice model successfully addresses low savings rates, volatile stock and bond markets, rising taxes, under-funded retirement plans, and geopolitical risks. I am 100% committed to Financial Advisors who champion holistic financial planning, asset allocation along with model portfolios, and best-in-class service.

Personally, my wife, Katie, and I live in Manhattan, and have a summer home in Beach Haven, New Jersey. My hobbies include golf, fishing, cars, travel and NY sports teams. I also enjoy reading, particularly history and politics. I consider Abe Lincoln, Winston Churchill, and Eleanor Roosevelt three of the greatest leaders of the 18th and 19th centuries.