Iyana Harris

Specialty: Independent Financial Advisors and RIAs
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Years in the business: 20+

Iyana Harris is the Co-Founder of Catalyst and a highly regarded consultant who specializes in navigating financial advisors through pivotal career transitions. Whether advisors are transitioning to new firms, launching independent RIAs, or expanding their practices, Iyana is recognized for her unwavering commitment to their success. She is not just a guide, but a strategic partner dedicated to fostering long-term growth and sustainability. With a deep expertise in business development and transition management, Iyana is the trusted advisor for those seeking a seamless, strategic transition—one that minimizes disruption to their teams and clients while unlocking new avenues for growth and opportunity

Before co-founding Catalyst, Iyana most recently served as Vice President of Business Development at  Osaic Wealth. Her time in leadership roles sharpened her understanding of what it takes to successfully manage advisor-client relationships, build high-performing teams, and execute growth strategies. Today, Iyana uses that deep industry knowledge to help advisors navigate the complexities of transition and create practices that align with their long-term vision.

Iyana holds a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University. Her commitment to innovation and growth goes beyond her day-to-day consulting work. She’s passionate about helping women succeed in the financial services industry and dedicates her time to build a network aimed at empowering female financial advisors. 

Why do you do what you do?

Iyana’s passion for her work stems from her belief that everyone should have the opportunity to build a career that brings them success and fulfillment. She’s committed to helping advisors find the freedom and autonomy they need to create the practices of their dreams—ones that not only grow but also allow them to balance their personal and professional lives. Iyana excels at combining strategic thinking with a personal touch, ensuring that each advisor she works with can create a business that truly flourishes.

What is something fun or interesting about you?

Iyana is a results-driven partner and consultant, embodying a "by any means necessary" approach to problem-solving. Known as a "solutionologist," she is relentlessly focused on finding solutions to both personal and professional challenges. Her fierce competitiveness is matched only by her deep commitment to ensuring that those around her are fully supported and energized as they move into the next phase of their journey. For Iyana, being of service to others is not just a value—it is the driving mission of her life

Story of an Advisor You Have Helped

One of Iyana’s most rewarding experiences was guiding a team of advisors in 2022 to build a successful ensemble firm. The challenge was unique—five partners spread across multiple states, each with specialized niches, yet all committed to a planning-focused approach. With over half a billion in assets under management, they were driven by a desire to create a practice that aligned with their vision and values. It took 18 months of careful planning and collaboration to crystalize that vision, but Iyana was confident that she, along with her previous firm, was equipped to meet the challenge.

Drawing from Philip Palaveev’s insights on ensemble practices, the complexity of this endeavor required more than just logistical coordination. It was about fostering a culture of collaboration while ensuring each partner’s individuality was respected. Building an ensemble firm involves creating shared systems, processes, and a unified strategic direction, all while empowering each advisor to bring their unique strengths to the table. Iyana embraced this philosophy, working closely with each partner to understand their individual goals and aligning them with the firm’s overarching strategy.

Iyana’s role extended beyond internal dynamics—she pushed her firm to adopt forward-thinking approaches with technology, capital allocation, and forging partnerships with new advisors. She brokered thoughtful, transparent conversations with firm leadership, ensuring that each partner felt truly seen, heard, and valued throughout the process. This hands-on, personalized approach was instrumental in turning a complex, multi-state operation into a cohesive, thriving ensemble firm.