Transition Case Study

Transition Announcement: An Edward Jones Team Launches CopperSky Wealth with Sanctuary and Goldman Sachs

After 17 years with Edward Jones, Justin Koch took the entrepreneurial leap, creating a bespoke independent firm, CopperSky Wealth, with the strategic support of Sanctuary Wealth and Goldman Sachs as custodian.

Nearly two decades at Edward Jones, first in Arizona and then in Oklahoma, led Justin Koch to reach an inflection point.

The Forbes Next Gen advisor in 2023 and a triple-certified financial professional (CFP®, CPWA®, CEPA®), built a thriving practice managing $225mm in client assets. The business was, by design, rooted in personal connection, trusted guidance, and a deep commitment to doing right by C-Suite professionals, oil and gas executives, business owners, and other wealthy individuals and families that it serves.

But like many top advisors with an ownership mindset, Justin found himself craving more: more freedom in how to deliver value, more optionality in the solutions he offered, and more control over the business he was building. Justin wanted the next phase of his career on his own terms—and to make one well-timed move poised for the long term.

For Justin, the move wasn’t about reacting to frustrations. Rather, it was about pursuing a bigger vision: Creating a firm that truly reflects their philosophy and gives their clients the “white shoe” service they deserve, with the same offerings as large money-center enterprises, but in a personal, approachable, and culturally appropriate manner.

Turning Vision into Reality with a Move Upmarket

That vision came to life in the form of CopperSky Wealth, an independent firm backed by the strategic support and platform of Sanctuary Wealth. Plus, the team selected Goldman Sachs Custody Solutions as their custodial partner—a move that elevates the firm’s offering and underscores their commitment to serving an increasingly sophisticated clientele.

It’s a choice that signals a clear intent to move upstream, bringing clients an institutional-caliber experience supported by best-in-class resources.

When we chose the path of independence, we had plenty of options,” said Koch. “But we were extremely impressed with Sanctuary and how well its values aligned with ours. From innovative technology to alternative investment solutions to terrific transition support, Sanctuary has helped us hit the ground running.

Guided by Experience: A Strategic Partnership with Diamond Consultants

Periodic check-ins by Diamond Consultants evolved into a two-year relationship, with the Diamond team serving as a guide through due diligence and a strategic partner in navigating the complexities of the move.

Justin put in the work and truly reflected on his options, carefully weighing supported independence options to ensure the right long-term fit.

Even early on, Sanctuary stood out to Justin. But under Diamond’s guidance, Justin expanded his exploration, validating that choice by comparing platforms across multiple dimensions—from technology and investment access to client experience and long-term equity potential. At the end of the day, Sanctuary’s depth, alignment of values, and ability to deliver on all fronts made the decision clear.

We are here to work for our clients and nobody else,” said Koch. “We believe Sanctuary shares our mindset and will treat us like valued clients. Independence is the right long-term move for me, Kari, and Joy—and it’s truly the best environment for our clients. We couldn’t be more excited about the tremendous opportunities ahead of us with Sanctuary and Goldman in our corner.

As the industry continues to evolve, CopperSky Wealth represents a growing trend among elite advisors: those who aren’t leaving something behind but rather moving toward something better.

Joining Justin in the move are Financial Advisor and Wealth Analyst, Kari Payne, and Client Service Associate, Joy York.

Diamond Consultants congratulates Justin and his team on their extraordinary leap to independence—and looks forward to their continued success with CopperSky Wealth.

 


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