HighTower managing director of business development Mike Papedis said that Masterson, Emma & Associates has built its client relationships on a foundation of integrity and commitment to what is best for the end investor.

Mark Masterson and David Emma will join as managing directors and partners at HighTower. Previously, the team was at Merrill Lynch.

Masterson was recognized as a Barron’s Top 1000 Financial Advisor in 2010, and he served at Merrill Lynch for over 14 years.

Emma, in addition to his time at Merrill Lynch, has experience as a real estate developer. He was also previously a professional hockey player for 10 years.

Papedis said that as HighTower expand, the focus is advising high net worth clients without the structural conflicts endemic to large integrated financial institutions, while cultivating elite advisors who offer sophisticated investment solutions.