Raymond James grabs $280M adviser from William Blair

A former William Blair adviser who managed $280 million in client assets has joined the employee side of Raymond James, according to a spokeswoman.

Alan Lazzara generated more than $1.7 million in annual production while he worked for William Blair, according to Raymond James. He now operates out of Raymond James' Chicago office.

Lazzara says he was drawn to Raymond James' conservative financial management, broad research capabilities and advanced technology. He had been with William Blair since 1987, according to FINRA BrokerCheck records.

Prior to that, he did stints at Comerica Bank and Harris Trust and Savings Bank, according to Raymond James.

Brian Lampsa, Raymond James' Chicago complex manager, notes that Lazzara's "conservative values align closely with those of Raymond James, making him a great addition to our firm."

A William Blair spokesman was not immediately available for a comment. Previously, the firm grabbed a Credit Suisse adviser who had managed $320 million in client assets. Veteran advisor Lawrence D. Gilbert works with business owners, high-net-worth families and private foundations, William Blair said.