Merrill Advisor Development Program - Financial Advisor: Ohio Valley Market

Bank of America • Cincinnati, OH

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Merrill Advisor Development Program is designed for individuals making a career transition who want to become Financial Advisors. The Financial Advisor works with high-net-worth individuals to identify needs, develop relationships, review financial goals, and deliver comprehensive recommendations for existing and prospective clients. The role includes collaborating with and receiving mentorship from Merrill Financial Advisor Teams to build experience and promote portfolio growth.

The position involves developing a book of business, sourcing prospective clients and referrals, assessing client needs, recommending suitable investment products and services, and managing client relationships and accounts. The Financial Advisor balances business development, client follow-up, compliance, and professional development while organizing resources to run a productive practice. The role also includes completing required training, assessments, performance goals, and continuing education.

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.
• Ability to engage with and influence others.
• Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and 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 most 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 education, or equivalent.
• Must meet SAFE Act registration requirements, including registration and the required background check and registration process.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree and/or 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 to prospects' and clients' objectives, resources, time horizons, risk profiles, 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.
• Consult specialists when 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.
• Present the capabilities of Merrill and Bank of America.
• Collect client profile information and follow standard KYC procedures to open accounts as appropriate.
• Serve as an interim Financial Advisor, make suitable investment recommendations, and service client accounts.
• Accurately document client interactions and opportunities in Salesforce.
• Collaborate with core banking and investment partners to connect clients with Bank of America and Merrill solutions.

Benefits

• World-class training and onboarding programs.
• Training and one-on-one coaching from the Bank of America Academy and local leadership.
• Mentorship and collaboration with Merrill Financial Advisor Teams.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED