Martine Lellis, Principal and COO at Sullivan, Bruyette, Spiros & Blaney, shares her remarkable journey from associate advisor to leading her firm in a management buyout. She discusses navigating the complexities of selling and buying back the firm, the integration of tax services with wealth management, and the unique needs of affluent clients. Martine reveals insights into firm governance, leadership challenges, and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of advisors, all while emphasizing the importance of staying independent in a competitive landscape.