('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.
(..) No, poor guy wanted to come. Last night, one of his creditors came with an officer and took him away. Yes but if something comes up and he can't make it I need to know in advance. No, he will definitely come. I'll go see the creditor and beg him to release him. Please lock the door behind me. (..)2011 A Separation