Ameriprise Financial Recruits Two Advisors Managing $150M+ from Commonwealth Financial

08/18/2025 – 10:29 AM

Advisors cite personalized support and growth-focused resources at Ameriprise as key factors in their decisions to join

MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (NYSE: AMP) is making waves, welcoming two seasoned financial advisors to its independent channel. The duo, formerly with Commonwealth Financial Network, bring with them a combined book of business exceeding $150 million in client assets. Chris Theis, CKA^®, FPQP^®, setting up shop in Millsboro, Delaware, and Michael Thomas, establishing his presence in Hamilton, Montana, independently chose Ameriprise after Commonwealth’s acquisition by LPL Financial. This strategic move underscores Ameriprise’s ongoing success in attracting top-tier advisory talent amidst industry consolidation.

Theis joins Ameriprise for greater support and boutique feel

For Theis, whose practice manages over $100 million in assets, the driving force was the search for a firm offering both robust support and a personalized, boutique-like environment. Ameriprise, he found, ticked all the boxes.

“I chose Ameriprise because it offers the boutique feel I was looking for, backed by the depth of resources needed to support my practice,” explained Theis. “The firm’s client-centric value proposition also closely aligns with my own approach to serving clients.”

“The strength of the Ameriprise leadership team also stood out immediately. From the first meeting, it was clear they were experienced, responsive and genuinely invested in helping advisors succeed,” Theis added, emphasizing management’s hands-on approach.

Theis is joined by Client Service Associate and Operations Lead Kristi Osborn, ensuring a seamless transition for his clientele. The team benefits from local support provided by Ameriprise Franchise Field Vice President Athena McGuire and Ameriprise Regional Vice President Thomas North.

Practice management and integrated technology draws Thomas to Ameriprise

Meanwhile, Michael Thomas, adding over $50 million in client assets to the Ameriprise fold, cited the firm’s superior professionalism, cutting-edge practice management tools, and integrated technology as pivotal in his decision. He arrived at his conclusion after carefully scrutinizing 15 potential partners.

“I had reached a point where I needed help managing the growth of my practice,” Thomas stated. “Ameriprise’s practice management team has real experience and a proven track record. Their technology is integrated and client-focused, which means less time on paperwork and more time serving my clients.” He’s betting on the firm’s resources to alleviate administrative burdens and free him to focus on clients.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited to grow my business through practice acquisitions and by hiring junior advisors,” Thomas added, signaling his ambitions for expansion. “While I’ve always been a solo advisor, in just a short time at Ameriprise, I’ve already hired an administrative assistant and expanded my office, thanks to the support and guidance from the firm’s transition and practice management teams.” Thomas’s experience highlights the benefits of Ameriprise’s comprehensive support system.

“While transitions can be challenging, joining Ameriprise has proven to be the best decision for my practice,” said Thomas, underscoring the firm’s value.

Thomas receives local backing from Ameriprise Franchise Field Vice President David Call and Ameriprise Regional Vice President Marcus Ranger.

“Chris and Michael are great examples of the kind of advisors who thrive at Ameriprise – those looking for a firm that combines personalized support with the scale and resources to grow their practices,” noted Brian Mora, Senior Vice President of Experienced Advisor Recruiting at Ameriprise. “Our value proposition is built around helping advisors accelerate growth, deepen client relationships and leverage a robust infrastructure backed by leaders who are deeply invested in their success. We’re proud to welcome them to the team.”

Ameriprise has consistently drawn experienced and high-performing financial advisors, with approximately 1,700 advisors joining the firm over the past five years, evidence of a strong track record that is continuing to grow.¹.

About the Ameriprise Ultimate Advisor Partnership

The Ameriprise Ultimate Advisor Partnership offers a differentiated experience for advisors that helps them accelerate growth while delivering an excellent client experience. Combined with the company’s culture of support and independence, the Ultimate Advisor Partnership enables advisors to scale their businesses, deepen client relationships and drive referrals for future growth.

About Ameriprise Financial

At Ameriprise Financial, we have been helping people feel confident about their financial future for more than 130 years². With extensive investment advice, global asset management capabilities and insurance solutions, and a nationwide network of more than 10,000 financial advisors, we have the strength and expertise to serve the full range of individual and institutional investors’ financial needs.

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¹ Ameriprise Financial Q4 2024 Earnings Release.

² Company founded June 29, 1894

Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP^® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP^® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.

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Source: Ameriprise Financial, Inc.