20+ Years of Guiding Advisors Across the Bridge to What’s Next

Independent Guidance for Financial Advisors Navigating Their Most Important Transitions

I’ve personally consulted with more than 1,000 financial advisors as they explore new firms, evaluate independence, plan succession, or prepare for future exits.

I bring unbiased clarity to every conversation, protect your confidentiality at every step, and help you move forward with confidence.

Your search will always be treated with 100% confidentiality.

Sound Familiar?

Advisors usually reach out for one of these reasons.

“I’m just curious what else is out there.”

“My firm is being sold or merged.”

“I’m evaluating independence.”

“I’m planning my succession or exit.”

Brian Shulstad, Managing Director, Bridgemark Strategies, standing before the Ravenel Bridge
About Brian

Hello, I’m Brian Shulstad

Managing Director, Bridgemark Strategies

I’ve personally consulted with more than 1,000 financial advisors as they explore new firms, evaluate independence, plan succession, or prepare for future exits.

I work closely with, and am powered by, Bridgemark Strategies — one of the largest independent recruiting firms in the industry. That combination gives you the personal attention of a consultant you can trust, backed by the reach, data, and resources of a national team, making for a powerful service for advisors looking for their next firm.

30+
Years in the industry
1,000+
Advisors consulted
100%
Confidential process
How It Works

You won’t navigate this alone.

I’m with you at every step — from your first question to your final decision.

01

Getting to Know You

I start by learning about you — your practice, your challenges, and your goals.

02

Curation

I curate a list of firm options that actually fit your practice and your goals.

03

Introductions

I set up introduction calls with the firms that fit best, and I’m on every call with you.

04

Due Diligence

A close review of platforms, fees, technology, and resources — so you avoid costly mistakes.

05

Negotiations

I negotiate on your behalf to maximize your deal structure and ongoing economics.

“

The good news? There are hundreds of firms to choose from. The bad news? There are hundreds of firms to choose from. That’s where I come in.

— Brian Shulstad

Client Perspectives

Here’s what advisors who’ve crossed the bridge have to say.

One example of the kind of outcome advisors experience after working through a transition.

Brian Shulstad shaking hands with a financial advisor, with the Ravenel Bridge visible through the window behind them
“

Brian was a great advocate for our practice. We were living in the stagnant waters of broker dealer land and the options he brought to me were innovative, effective and ultimately, I ended up with a much better match than if I’d been doing it on my own. Highly recommend Brian and his group if you’re an advisor and want something better out of your back-office relationship.

RF
Ryan Forster
Financial Advisor
Common Questions

Frequently asked questions

How do you get paid? +

There is no cost to you. I am compensated by the firm you transition to, not by you — so my guidance stays focused on what’s actually the right fit.

Am I obligated to move firms once the process begins? +

Never. There’s no contract and no obligation. You can pause, slow down, or walk away from the process at any point, for any reason.

Will my search be confidential? +

Always. Your current firm, your team, and your clients never need to know you’re exploring your options unless and until you decide to move forward.

Ready to Start?

Wherever you are in the decision, you don’t have to work through it alone.

I offer unbiased, complimentary advice to help you find out whether a move makes sense for you — no pressure, no obligation.