By Ana DeGannes and the Private Advisor Group marketing team
In the military, success begins with a clear mission and a deep understanding of one’s role in a greater cause. Responsibility extends beyond individual duties to the lives and well-being of your comrades. It’s an environment that forges strong leadership foundations grounded in discipline, integrity, teamwork, and adaptability.
At Private Advisor Group, that same ethos is reflected in how we engage with advisors, foster trust, and help drive the firm’s growth and long-term strategy. For Kevin Sullivan, Director of Enterprise Growth, these leadership qualities were first instilled during his six years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps. His transition to financial services wasn’t just a career shift—it was a continuation of mission-driven leadership. By inspiring trust, empowering teams, leading with intention, and championing a people-first philosophy, Kevin exemplifies how veterans bring invaluable strengths to the business world.
Here are a few key ways military values continue to shape his leadership:
1. Humility
Military service teaches that the mission always comes before the individual. It’s a mindset that fosters collaboration and accountability. Effective leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about empowering others and rallying a team around a shared purpose.
2. Discipline
“In the Marines, you’ve got to show up every day, no matter the circumstances,” Kevin says. That discipline—rooted in consistency, accuracy, and self-improvement—isn’t just a military virtue; it’s a leadership standard. In financial services, showing up daily for advisors, clients, and teammates builds trust and reliability. “You won’t always have every answer, but owning the process—I don’t know, but I will find out—goes a long way.”
3. Integrity
Integrity is non-negotiable in the military. It’s also non-negotiable in business. Doing the right things, the right way, for the right reasons anchors every decision. Integrity also shows up in how people are treated—with honesty, inclusion, and a willingness to listen.
4. Adaptability
Things don’t always go as planned—on the battlefield or in business. “First, there’s a plan, and then the plan falls apart. Sometimes it’s worse than you anticipated, but you have to figure out how to improvise, adapt, and overcome,” Kevin explains. Being able to pivot under pressure builds resilience and fosters innovation.
5. Proficiency
In the military, precision and competence are critical. “You have to be accurate and technically proficient. Mistakes can have serious consequences,” says Kevin. That same focus applies in financial services. Delivering clear, accurate information and consistently following through helps build credibility and earn trust.
6. Team Building
The military runs on teamwork. Everyone relies on each other to accomplish the mission. In business, the same is true. Strong teams are built on trust, mutual respect, and support. Valuing and nurturing team members—personally and professionally—is key to long-term success.
Looking back, Kevin shares that the military gave him more than just a foundation—it gave him a blueprint for leadership. The bond forged through service never truly fades; it deepens when connecting with fellow veterans and team members who share that same commitment to purpose.
At Private Advisor Group, that leadership is steadfast, people-first, and focused on progress. The values carried forward from military service continue to shape our culture and inspire our mission to support advisors with integrity, clarity, and care.
