Brian Byars, founder of Advanced Retirement Planning of Covington, has been asked to join the elite Forum 400 organization, comprised of leaders in production and innovation in financial services. The organization is restricted to 400 professionals, but only 280 advisers nationwide met its qualifying criteria.

He joins eight other members from the state of Georgia and is one of two advisers to be named from the metro Atlanta area.

"Individuals who qualify for membership are not only incredibly successful advisers, but also embody the sharing mentality that is so central to Forum 400’s mission," said Barbara O’Connor, the organization’s executive director. "Brian Byars exemplifies this. We are excited to have him join us and look forward to his contributions to Forum 400."

Georgia Trend Magazine named Byars to its "40 Under 40" list for 2012, comprised of the top professionals in business, government, nonprofits and the arts.