Business Development Director, Kristy Hillukka’s journey into the financial services industry is an inspiring story of reinvention and opportunity. Let’s listen as she reflects on her path as a career changer, the meaningful moments that shaped her, and her dedication to helping financial professionals thrive.

What made you decide to join the financial services industry?
I like to tell people that the financial services industry actually found me. I had raised my sons and my oldest was about to go off to college. I was a school secretary at the time, and was looking for a new career path. I visited with an advisor in the industry, and he suggested, “You should consider becoming a financial advisor.” I went home, did some research, and just started walking down the path and taking my exams. I jumped into the career with both feet in my mid-40s, loved it, and never looked back.

What roles have you had along the way?
I started as a financial advisor in Idaho, where I met with clients anywhere from their kitchen tables to tractors in the middle of potato fields. Eventually I moved into leadership, where my role was to find people like myself that were looking for a new career. I spent most of my time recruiting others who were seeking a new career path, just like I had. It was incredibly fulfilling to extend that opportunity to others. 

Later I shifted my focus to training and development and for about eight years, I helped financial professionals grow their practices through various training programs. Now, at 1847Financial, I have the exciting role of supporting more experienced advisors who are looking to elevate their practices even further. Helping them tap into the wealth of resources available here and watching them thrive is truly rewarding. 

How have you seen firsthand how financial products have helped clients?
There are so many, but one story has stayed with me. Early in my career, I worked with a family in crisis. The mother needed long-term care, and her children were meeting with their father, desperate to find the funds to pay for it. They were panicked, considering cashing in life insurance policies and brokerage accounts. When I stepped in, I was able to assess the situation calmly and guide them through a strategy that preserved the best options for their needs. Sadly, their mother passed away soon after, but by preserving the life insurance, we were able to ease the financial burden for the family in the long run. That experience reinforced how vital financial professionals are in times of crisis—not just as financial specialists but as calm mediators who bring clarity in emotional moments.

How do you support financial professionals in your current role?
Financial professionals are some of my favorite people on the planet. They do essential work, and the world needs them. In my current role, what’s most exciting is I’m helping them be even better at what they do. At 1847Financial, our financial professionals really are truly independent business owners, which means they're busy working with their clients. I step in to understand their goals and challenges, then bring in resources to support their growth. Whether it’s practice development coaches or our incredible marketing team, I connect financial professionals with everything they need, so they can focus on what they do best. 

What advice would you give a financial professional who is looking to change firms?
There so many options out there, but it’s important to look beyond the numbers. Sure, as a business owner, you need to evaluate the financials, but I believe the most critical factors are the resources a firm offers and, perhaps even more importantly, its culture. Does the firm’s culture align with your values? Does it allow you to be authentic and build the practice and brand you envision? You’re independent, but the people you surround yourself with—the leadership and team—can make all the difference in your success. Weigh everything, but make sure the culture is the right fit for you.

Describe your ideal recruit. 
Ideally, it’s someone who embraces being independent but wants to remain connected, and is open to coaching and resources. Their practice has reached a point where they know if they bring in the right resources, they can take it to the next level. I often say, “I want to bring on financial professionals that I would recommend to my own grandma.” They’re trustworthy, pleasant to work with, and someone I’d enjoy spending three hours in a car conversing with. A sense of fun is important to me, too—working hard and making a difference is essential, but we should also enjoy the journey together.

Do you have a quote or saying that you live by? 
One of my new favorite quotes comes from Nicole Malachowski, the first female jet fighter pilot on the Thunderbirds Air Demonstration Squadron. At a recent company event, she said, “Nothing of significance ever happens alone.” That resonates with me deeply, especially here at 1847Financial, where collaboration and support are at the core of what we do. Connecting financial professionals with the teams and resources they need is my way of living out that quote.

 
What do you do for fun in your free time?
I’m a proud grandmother of three, and just welcomed my first granddaughter – an exciting milestone, as she’s the first girl in the family in a long time!  My free time is mostly spent traveling to visit my grandchildren, who live in different states. 

My husband and I love hitting the road on his motorcycle, exploring new places, and soaking up all the adventure we can. 

Curious about how Kristy unites financial professionals with the vast support at 1847Financial? Consider connecting with her on LinkedIn or reach out directly to 208-539-4249.

^{7082941RG_Oct26}