Mariner Wealth Advisors has acquired a majority interest in State College, PA-based Vantage Investment Advisors as part of its national growth initiative.

Mariner Wealth Advisors has acquired a majority interest in State College, PA-based Vantage Investment Advisors as part of its national growth initiative.

A team of 14 manage over $1 billion at Vantage Investment Advisors, which is led by Robert Thomas, president and chief executive.

As previously reported, Mariner Wealth Advisors is pursuing an “aggressive” expansion plan, having widened its national footprint through the acquisition of several regional advisory firms. Its latest will strengthen its presence in the Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey areas.

As reported by this publication at the end of October last year, Mariner Holdings, the parent company of Mariner Wealth Advisors and Montage Investments, plans to hire around 60 professionals on top of adding over 100 advisors and business development consultants over the next six months. Job openings are located throughout the US and include positions at Mariner Holdings, Mariner Wealth Advisors, Montage Investments and other affiliates.

Mariner Wealth Advisors has $35 million at end-September 2014.