Mark Sears, CLF^®

I started as a financial advisor in Chicago more than three decades ago. The work was straightforward in concept but difficult in execution: build genuine relationships with clients, understand what they actually needed, and deliver consistent results. That foundation served me well for years, but after a while, I realized I was more interested in helping other advisors succeed than continuing to build my own book.

That shift into field leadership occurred about 25 years ago, and it has defined my career ever since. I've held roles from Managing Director to Southern Territory Vice President, always focused on the same core objective: to elevate the people around you, and the performance follows. Some leaders manage numbers. I've always believed you develop people, and the numbers take care of themselves. That philosophy has shaped how I approach team building, advisor development, and what it means actually to support the people doing the work.

In August 2022, I took on the role of Managing Director for The Greater Florida Financial Group. This region is one of Prudential's most dynamic markets, and the growth trajectory reflects both the opportunity in Florida and the quality of advisors we're attracting. My job is to create an environment where talented professionals have the resources, support, and strategic direction they need to build something significant. I earned my CLF® and LUTCF® designations because this industry evolves constantly, and if you're leading people, you'd better stay sharp.

My wife, Mary Kay, and I live in Naples. We have three children, and when we're not traveling, you'll find us at college sporting events. We're both passionate about collegiate athletics, probably to an irrational degree, but it's one of those things that makes life more enjoyable. Whether it's a Saturday afternoon football game or a March basketball tournament, we'll be there.