Merrill Wealth Management Client Associate – Advisor Development Program: Northern New England Market

Bank of America•Burlington, VT

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Merrill Wealth Management is hiring an entry-level Wealth Management Client Associate for its Advisor Development Program, a progression role intended for people transitioning into a career as a Financial Advisor. The role begins with client service support for multiple Financial Advisors (FAs), while the employee obtains the required securities licenses and develops foundational client-associate skills. Dedicated study time is provided for the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE), Series 7, and Series 66 exams; these licenses must be obtained within 120 days. Series 63 and 65 are accepted in place of Series 66 if previously held. The Client Associate is a frequent point of contact for Merrill clients, supporting client service, operational excellence, client advocacy, and the FAs’ business. The employee will tailor support to the needs of the FAs, respond to client service needs, and serve as a resource to the team. In-office work is expected, with role-specific flexibility based on responsibilities and business needs. After demonstrating proficiency and completing experiential activities that showcase readiness to become an advisor, the employee may progress to the next stage of the Advisor Development Program as a Financial Advisor trainee. Training prepares the trainee to build a book of business and acquire, build, and manage client relationships from a Merrill office. After meeting performance requirements as a trainee, the intended destination is becoming a Merrill Financial Advisor. The program provides dedicated training, tools, resources, and ongoing support throughout this career path. The position is based in Burlington, Vermont, and is listed at 37.5 hours per week on first shift. Pay is $35.90 per hour; compensation is a base salary and is not incentive eligible. The role is benefits eligible. The position is subject to SAFE Act registration requirements, including registration, a background check, and maintaining good standing.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, secondary school diploma, or equivalent.
Obtain the SIE, Series 7, and Series 66 licenses within 120 days; previously held Series 63 and Series 65 licenses are accepted in lieu of Series 66.
Confidence working as a self-starter in a sales role.
Ability to build strong client relationships through effective communication and collaboration.
Proactive mindset and effective time management.
Results-driven growth mindset with a focus on client interests.
Ability to identify appropriate client solutions by applying learning and new information.
Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to build trust and credibility quickly.
Ability to assess needs and recommend appropriate solutions.
Ability to work collaboratively with partners and independently.
Ability to listen and probe for clarity and understanding.
Entrepreneurial mindset and proven ability to source clients through prospecting and networking.
Strong follow-through skills.
Computer and technical literacy, including proficiency with applications such as Microsoft Suite.
Register under the SAFE Act, complete the required background check and registration process, and maintain registration in good standing.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree and/or at least one year of work experience.
Ability to learn and adapt to new technology or applications.
Ability to execute multiple tasks simultaneously.

Responsibilities

Provide client service support to multiple Financial Advisors and act as a frequent point of contact for clients’ service needs.
Partner with Financial Advisors, Client Relationship Managers, and Market Supervision Managers on client servicing, risk, investments, and banking products; seek guidance and escalate issues as appropriate.
Educate clients on the bank’s service and banking offerings.
Ensure client materials are timely, accurate, and complete, and follow up on client and Financial Advisor requests.
Help ensure practices align with bank policies and procedures to support operational excellence, protect clients, and manage risk.
Identify, deepen, and maintain client relationships by emphasizing the bank’s offerings and incorporating banking into day-to-day practices; communicate outcomes to the Financial Advisor.
Provide business growth support, including business development, investment solutions, and/or business management support to multiple Financial Advisors.
As the program progresses, develop a book of business, source and prioritize prospective clients, capitalize on referrals, assess client needs, refer clients to internal specialists, and deliver customized solutions.
Recommend suitable investment products and services based on prospects’ objectives, resources, time horizon, risk profile, and preferences.
Balance investment growth, referrals, client follow-up, prospecting, administrative compliance, and professional development.
Organize and manage time, people, and budget to run a productive practice; seek specialist expertise when appropriate.
Complete required training, assessments, performance goals, and continuing education.