Merrill Advisor Development Program - Financial Advisor: Bridgewater & Associates Market

Bank of America•Bridgewater, NJ

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Merrill Wealth Management provides comprehensive wealth management and investment products and services to individuals, companies, and institutions. Its goals-based approach supports clients with retirement, education, legacy, and other life goals through investment advice and guidance. Merrill advisory teams combine investment insights from Merrill with the banking convenience of Bank of America. The company maintains an in-office culture that supports collaboration, engagement, and career development, with role-specific flexibility based on responsibilities and business needs. The Merrill Advisor Development Program is designed for people transitioning careers and pursuing a career as a Financial Advisor. In this role, you will work with high-net-worth individuals to identify needs, develop relationships, review financial goals, and deliver comprehensive recommendations for current and prospective clients. You will collaborate with and receive mentorship from Merrill Financial Advisor Teams while building experience and promoting portfolio growth. You will develop a book of business, source and serve clients, recommend suitable investment products and services, manage a productive practice, and complete required training and continuing education. The role handles inbound inquiries from leads, presents Merrill and Bank of America capabilities, gathers client profile information under standard KYC procedures, and opens accounts as appropriate. As an interim Financial Advisor, you provide suitable investment recommendations and service client accounts. You document client interactions and opportunities accurately in Salesforce. The role is subject to SAFE Act registration and associated background-check requirements. It is a first-shift position, 40 hours per week, with a stated annual salary range of $80,000 to $90,000 and eligibility for a formulaic incentive plan.

Requirements

Currently holds Series 7 and Series 66 licenses, or Series 63 and Series 65 in lieu of Series 66.
At least one year of experience in the financial services industry and/or a sales environment where goals were met or exceeded.
At least one year of experience in the investments industry, including investment training and in-depth knowledge of investment products and services.
Proven ability to engage with and influence others.
Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility quickly.
Ability to assess needs and recommend appropriate solutions or interventions.
Ability to work collaboratively on a team and with key partners.
Ability to listen and probe for clarity and understanding.
Goal- and results-oriented approach.
Entrepreneurial mindset and proven ability to source clients through prospecting and networking.
Ability to work in an environment where most compensation is tied to performance.
Strong follow-through skills.
Computer and technical literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Must complete SAFE Act registration and required background check, and maintain good standing.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree.
At least one year of financial services industry or sales experience.
Ability to learn and adapt to new technology or applications.
Ability to execute multiple tasks simultaneously.

Responsibilities

Develop a book of business to meet and exceed established performance hurdles.
Prioritize sourcing prospective clients, capitalize on referrals, assess customer needs, refer customers to appropriate internal specialists, and execute customized solutions.
Recommend investment products and services suitable for prospects and clients based on objectives, resources, time horizon, risk profile, and preferences.
Balance investment growth, referral activities, customer follow-up, prospect building, administrative compliance, and professional development.
Organize and manage time, people, and budget to run a productive practice.
Consult specialists as appropriate to identify planning and investment strategies for clients.
Complete mandated training, assessments, performance goals, and continuing education requirements.
Handle inbound inquiries from leads regarding Merrill offerings.
Position Merrill and Bank of America capabilities.
Collect necessary client profile data, follow standard KYC procedures, and open accounts as appropriate.
Serve as an interim Financial Advisor by recommending suitable investment products and services and servicing client accounts.
Document client interactions and opportunities accurately in Salesforce.
Provide comprehensive advice, conduct client reviews and presentations, and recommend strategies to support clients' financial goals and life priorities.
Collaborate with core banking and investment partners.