Merrill Advisor Development Program - Financial Advisor: Western NY Market

Bank of America•Buffalo, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Merrill Advisor Development Program is designed for individuals making a career transition into becoming 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 existing and prospective clients. You will collaborate with and receive mentorship from Merrill Financial Advisor Teams while building experience and growing a portfolio and book of business. The role involves responding to leads, developing client relationships through prospecting and referrals, assessing needs, recommending suitable investment products and services, and servicing client accounts. You will collect client profile information using standard KYC procedures, document interactions and opportunities in Salesforce, and balance business development, client follow-up, compliance, and ongoing professional development. The position is based at one of the listed Western New York locations and is subject to SAFE Act registration requirements.

Requirements

Currently hold Series 7 and Series 66 licenses, or Series 63 and Series 65 in lieu of Series 66.
At least one year of experience working 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.
Ability to engage with and influence others.
Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to quickly build trust and credibility.
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 ability to source clients through extensive prospecting and networking.
Ability to work in an environment where the majority of compensation is tied to performance.
Strong follow-through skills.
Computer and technical literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
High school diploma, GED, secondary school qualification, or equivalent.
Must complete SAFE Act registration and the required background check and registration process, 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 suitable investment products and services based on clients’ objectives, resources, time horizon, risk profile, and preferences.
Balance investment growth, referral activities, customer follow-up, prospect building, administrative compliance, and personal development.
Organize and manage time, people, and budget to run a productive practice.
Seek specialists’ expertise, where 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 the capabilities of Merrill and Bank of America.
Collect required client profile data and follow standard KYC procedures to open accounts as appropriate.
Serve as an interim Financial Advisor by recommending suitable investment products and services and servicing client accounts.
Accurately document all client interactions and opportunities in Salesforce.
Provide comprehensive advice and deliver client reviews and presentations.
Collaborate with core banking and investment partners.