Advisor Development Program - Financial Solutions Advisor Trainee (Centralized): Columbus, OH

Bank of America • Upper Arlington, OH

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Merrill Wealth Management is seeking individuals for their Advisor Development Program to become Financial Solutions Advisors. This program provides comprehensive training to obtain necessary securities licenses (SIE, Series 7, Series 66) and develop foundational skills in client relationship management, financial planning, and providing tailored advice. The role begins with a centralized, phone-based approach, identifying client needs and offering holistic financial advice, aligning Merrill and Bank of America products and services. As trainees progress, they will work with affluent and high-net-worth clients, preparing investment recommendations and developing relationships. The program offers a defined path for career growth within Merrill Wealth Management, supported by dedicated training, coaching, and resources. The goal is to equip individuals to become successful Merrill Financial Advisors.

Requirements

• Must obtain SIE within 60 days of hire.
• Must obtain Series 7 & 66 within 120 days of hire.
• Displays confidence working in a sales role.
• Builds strong client relationships through effective communication and collaboration.
• Displays a proactive mindset and effective time management.
• Demonstrates a results-driven mindset and prioritizes client interests.
• Identifies appropriate client solutions through application of learnings and new information.
• Applies relevant regulatory due diligence in daily activities and creating long-term client strategies.
• Subject to SAFE Act registration requirements, including background check and registration process.
• Must maintain SAFE Act registration in good standing.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree and/or a minimum of one year of financial services industry or sales experience.
• Learns and adapts to new technology or applications.
• Executes multiple tasks simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Obtain Securities Industry Essentials (SIE), Series 7, and Series 66 licenses.
• Develop foundational skills in acquiring, building, and managing client relationships.
• Assess clients' complex financial pictures and provide advice and solutions.
• Humanize financial interactions.
• Provide clients with holistic financial advice and guidance.
• Identify broader product and service solutions that meet investment, savings, and liability management needs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of investments and financial markets.
• Apply key principles appropriate to individual client investment needs.
• Align Merrill and Bank of America products and services.
• Work with affluent and high net worth clients.
• Identify client needs, develop relationships, review investment goals, and prepare investment recommendations.
• Provide end-to-end comprehensive advice.
• Deliver client reviews/presentations with confidence.
• Recommend strategies to help clients achieve their financial goals and life priorities.
• Collaborate with core banking and investment partners.
• Connect clients to all solutions provided through Bank of America and Merrill.
• Manage a portfolio of clients by providing exceptional client care.
• Engage in continuous training and developmental opportunities.

Benefits

• Dedicated and personalized classes for Securities Industry Essentials (SIE), Series 7 and Series 66 Exams.
• Training and one-on-one coaching from Academy managers.
• Defined consultative approach with clients.
• Unlimited potential for financial growth.
• Strong referral base from across the business.
• Robust marketing support.
• Ongoing professional development.
• Opportunities to connect with experts including small business consultants, mortgage lenders and investment advisors.
• Industry-leading benefits.
• Access to paid time off.
• Resources and support.
• Competitive benefits to support physical, emotional, and financial well-being.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree