('US') an 'advance man/woman/team' [=a man, woman, or group whose job is to go to a place and make preparations for someone (such as a politician or an entertainer) who is coming to visit that place at a later time]
There were more 'advancers' [=stocks that increased in value] than decliners in the stock market yesterday.
They began to make preparations several days 'in advance of' [='before, ahead of'] her arrival.
(..) there is very little we can do. Mathilda left school without permission nearly two weeks ago. I know your husband paid tuition in advance for a year... but if you will refer to the rules and regulations manual we sent you... you will see that unless there is a valid excuse for prolonged absence... (..)1994 Léon: The Professional