Financial Advisory - Financial Advisor

Kestra•Fairfield, NJ

About The Position

The Financial Advisor is responsible for managing and strengthening client relationships, delivering financial planning and investment advice, and developing new business for the firm. The advisor serves as the primary advisor for assigned clients, takes responsibility for the growth and continued development of those relationships, and builds a pipeline of qualified prospects. The role includes converting opportunities into client relationships and expanding existing relationships through thoughtful planning, asset consolidation, and referrals. The advisor works collaboratively with service advisors, associate advisors, operations, and investment resources to provide a seamless client experience. The position also involves coaching less experienced team members and supporting firm initiatives and process improvements.

Requirements

CFP® or CFA certification is required.
SIE and Series 7/66 are preferred or must be obtained within 12 months.
Additional licenses may be required based on state and role requirements.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Financial Management, Economics, Business, or a related discipline.
At least 3 years of experience in financial services, wealth management, or advisory roles.
Experience preparing and presenting financial plans, working with investment recommendations, and managing client relationships.
Microsoft Office experience is required.
Strong communication skills, sound judgment, and commitment to confidentiality and a high-quality, collaborative client experience.
Strong organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, demonstrate accountability, and follow through in a fast-paced team environment.
Internal applicants must be in good standing and have at least 1 year of service with Kestra and at least 1 year in their current role, unless approved by an EVP.

Nice To Haves

SIE and Series 7/66 licenses, if not already obtained, are preferred.
Experience with CRM, financial planning software, and custodian or portfolio platforms.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned clients and maintain strong, trusted relationships.
Prepare for and conduct discovery, planning, review, onboarding, and follow-up meetings.
Understand clients’ circumstances, needs, goals, and priorities, and translate them into planning and service actions.
Document client interactions, meeting notes, recommendations, and follow-up items in the CRM.
Deepen client relationships, consolidate outside assets, request referrals where appropriate, and identify business opportunities.
Develop and maintain a prospecting pipeline of prospective clients, centers of influence, referrals, and other business development opportunities.
Gather client information, review planning assumptions, and deliver financial planning recommendations aligned with client objectives.
Coordinate financial planning, investment management, insurance, estate, tax, and other advisory considerations with internal and external professionals.
Present financial plans, planning updates, investment recommendations, and client meeting materials.
Research planning and investment issues and communicate recommendations clearly and professionally.
Monitor and update client plans and portfolios in response to changing circumstances, life events, and firm guidance.
Coordinate with investment and operations teams to implement approved recommendations, trades, account openings, transfers, and rebalancing activities.
Ensure onboarding and transition activities are completed accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with firm processes.
Review client reports, statements, planning summaries, and meeting materials for accuracy and clarity.
Follow through on client requests and coordinate internal resources to resolve questions or issues.
Collaborate with service advisors, associate advisors, client service, operations, and planning team members to deliver consistent client service.
Coach and guide less experienced team members on client preparation, planning quality, and professional communication.
Participate in client and prospect events, firm initiatives, and process improvement efforts.
Support a team culture grounded in accountability, professionalism, and client care.