Jim Erben
Jim Erben is a highly sought-after exit and succession specialist, keynote speaker, and President at Erben Associates. Under his leadership, Erben Associates earned a spot on the INC. 5000 list in 2018, 2019, and 2020 and is a highly sought-after exit and succession planning firm.
Jim graduated with honors in 1986 from the University of Texas at Austin with a BBA in Marketing after attending Texas A&M, where he played football for two years. In 2003, Jim completed a Master of Science in Financial Services at the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA, as well as the Accredited Estate Planner (AEP) designation.
As an international speaker, Jim shares his 30+ years of experience with thousands of business leaders annually. He is well-known for his straightforward approach to succession or exit planning, business continuity, and executive retention.
A distinguished advisor to clients and organizations, Jim is one of 500 senior American business leaders representing the private sector in Business Executives for National Security, an invitation-only think tank to help our national security become more efficient and effective.
Jim’s proprietary process helps business owners navigate the complexities of succession and exit planning to help create an everlasting legacy.
Originally from San Antonio, Jim and his son, Jess, are at home in Austin, Texas. Jim’s hobbies include hunting, fishing, and golf, as well as cooking and enjoying wine.
CA Insurance License # 0B61738, AR Insurance License # 1083795
Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®)
Issuing Organization
The Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) designation is awarded by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC).
Requirements to Obtain the Designation
- Have a minimum of five years of experience in estate planning or a related field
- Hold a qualifying professional credential (such as CPA, CFP®, JD, or similar)
- Demonstrate advanced education and knowledge in estate planning
- Provide professional references and be actively engaged in estate planning
Ongoing Requirements
- Complete continuing education related to estate planning
- Adhere to ethical and professional standards established by the issuing organization
Important Disclosure
Professional designations are awarded by independent third-party organizations and are not issued or approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Designations are not a substitute for required licenses or registrations.
Investors are encouraged to verify a financial professional’s credentials and review designation details — including issuing organizations, requirements, and continuing education — using publicly available resources such as FINRA BrokerCheck and FINRA’s Professional Designations database.