Cambridge Investment Research Advisors

Office address: 1776 Pleasant Plain Road, Fairfield, IA 52556-8757
Website: www.joincambridge.com
Year established: 1981
Company type: asset management
Employees: 900+
Expertise: broker-dealer services, asset management, wealth management, succession planning, financial advisory services, compliance support, risk management, practice management, RIA solutions, investment products, technology integration
Parent company: Cambridge Investment Group
Key people: Amy Webber (CEO), Eric Schwartz (co-chair), Colleen Bell (president), Jeff Vivacqua (president), Nick Graham (CTO), Tammy Robbins (EVP), Seth Miller (president)
Financing status: N/A

Cambridge Investment Research Advisors is a privately controlled asset management company offering financial solutions for independent advisors and their clients. Headquartered in Fairfield, Iowa, the firm oversees $174 billion in assets under advisement and employs 900 associates. For over 40 years, Cambridge has supported 3,800 advisors in growing their businesses and serving clients effectively.

History of Cambridge Investment Research Advisors

Cambridge Investment Research Advisors was founded in 1985 by Eric Schwartz to support independent financial advisors. As part of Cambridge Investment Group, the firm separated its advisory services from its broker-dealer operations in 2005. By 2010, it remained under the control of Schwartz and had grown into one of the largest broker-dealers in the US.

In 2017, the firm restructured as a holding company, overseeing several broker-dealer and investment advisor subsidiaries. The company expanded in 2018 by acquiring Broker Dealer Financial Services, adding 150 advisors and $3.5 billion in assets. Cambridge targeted RIA assets in 2024 by enhancing incentives for advisors, aiming to attract more RIA asset transfers to its WealthPort platform.

Products and Services of Cambridge Investment Research Advisors

Cambridge Investment Research Advisors provides a broad range of services tailored to support independent financial advisors. These offerings are categorized as follows:

• innovative technology: tools to streamline advisor operations, including the WealthPort platform and data integration solutions
• investment products: a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, ETFs, and alternative investments
• practice management: resources for business growth, client retention, and operational efficiency
• marketing services: solutions for building brand awareness and client engagement
• succession and acquisition: guidance for advisors on business transitions, mergers, and acquisitions
• outsourcing: support services like HR, IT, and compliance assistance
• simplified transitions: streamlined processes for advisors joining or leaving Cambridge

Cambridge offers a flexible range of solutions to foster growth, independence, and success for advisors. Guided by their core principles, the company is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of financial professionals, their clients, and associates.

Culture at Cambridge Investment Research Advisors

Cambridge Investment Research Advisors is built on values like integrity, flexibility, and commitment, with a focus on helping employees reach their full potential. They also provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote work-life balance, which includes:

• work-life balance: competitive salary, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, paid parental leave
• health and wellness: medical, dental, vision insurance, wellness programs, financial wellness coaching, and on-site massage therapy
• flexible work options: hybrid work arrangements, work-from-anywhere program, and casual dress code
• personal growth: continuing education, professional licensing support, and performance bonuses
• community engagement: paid volunteer hours, adoption benefits, employee assistance programs, and matching gifts

More than 40 years ago, Cambridge’s founder, Eric Schwartz, set out to create a company that treated people well and made a difference. Through their commitment to inclusion, they foster innovation and encourage better decision-making for both the present and the future. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors’ commitment to inclusion is reflected in several key initiatives:

• perspective: promoting collaboration through advisory councils like the CAAP®2 Advisory and Compliance Advisory
• education: providing learning opportunities, including book studies, podcasts, and workshops to inspire new ideas
• culture: fostering a trusted environment where everyone has a voice through engagement committees for associates and communities
• leadership: creating positive change through initiatives like the Cambridge Foundation, Ignite Giving Back, and Jim Guy Memorial Scholarship

The company believes that by working together, they can positively impact communities through economic and cultural contributions. The Cambridge Foundation focuses on improving community vitality, supporting initiatives that strengthen economies and enhance people's lives. The Foundation continually refines its objectives, awarding grants to organizations that align with its charitable goals, which are focused in these key areas:

• community engagement: supporting arts, culture, and local involvement
• education and workforce development: providing scholarships and promoting educational initiatives
• health and wellness: contributing to human services and environmental sustainability
• tax-exempt contributions: supporting organizations with 501(c)(3) status
• employee involvement: encouraging matching gifts and volunteer opportunities for associates

Cambridge Investment Research Advisors believes that a strong culture is key to success, shaping their purpose of supporting independent financial advisors and their clients. The firm takes pride in partnering with advisors who are dedicated to making a meaningful difference. Cambridge’s mission is to positively impact the lives of financial professionals, their clients, and associates.

About Cambridge Investment Research Advisors CEO Amy Webber and Key People

Amy Webber serves as the CEO of Cambridge Investment Research Advisors and has over 35 years of industry experience. She previously served as a director at SunAmerica Securities, now SagePoint, and is focusing on delivering independent advice to investors. Webber won the 2022 Women to Watch award and advocates for regulatory reforms supporting independent financial advice.

The leadership team at Cambridge Investment Research Advisors plays a significant role in guiding the company’s strategic direction and growth efforts. Key people include:

• Eric Schwartz as co-chair of the board focuses on long-term strategy and innovation within the organization
• Colleen Bell serves as president of innovation and experience, leading initiatives to enhance advisor and client experiences
• Jeff Vivacqua, as president of growth and development, drives advisor recruitment and business expansion strategies
• Nick Graham, serving as EVP and chief technology officer, oversees the firm's technology infrastructure and digital transformation projects
• Tammy Robbins as EVP and chief business development officer, leads advisor acquisition and relationship management efforts
• Seth Miller as president of advocacy and administration ensures compliance and strengthens advisor support through regulatory initiatives

The Future at Cambridge Investment Research Advisors

Cambridge has taken a strategic step toward securing its future in the wealth management market with the launch of its BridgePort RIA business. By acquiring stakes in RIAs, Cambridge aims to retain advisors, enhance growth as they retire, and shift toward a more profitable advisory fee structure. This initiative strengthens Cambridge Investment Research Advisors' competitive position in the market by committing to long-term growth and stability through targeted acquisitions and partnerships.

Cambridge received recognition at the InvestmentNews Awards 2024, winning top honors in categories such as broker-dealer of the year and CEO of the year. These awards reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its impact on the wealth management industry. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors’ dedication to empowering financial professionals and providing high-quality services continues to shape its success and future development.