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Merrill Team Financial Advisor - Business Development Program

Key Information:

• Job Category: Financial Advisor Development Program
• Business Unit: Merrill Wealth Management
• Location: Various locations in the United States
• Type: Full-Time, Experienced Hire [Non-Campus Hire]

About Merrill Wealth Management

Merrill Wealth Management is a global leader in providing comprehensive wealth management and investment products and services for individuals, companies, and institutions. As one of the largest businesses of its kind, Merrill specializes in goals-based wealth management, including retirement planning, education savings, legacy planning, and other life goals through personalized investment advice and guidance.

At Merrill, diversity and inclusion are core to our values. We believe in empowering our employees to bring their whole selves to work, which fosters a culture driven by resilience, collaboration, and a focus on results. Our Wealth Management team comprises professionals from diverse backgrounds who bring unique perspectives, ideas, and experiences to create a dynamic and effective work environment.

About the Role: Merrill Team Financial Advisor

Program Overview:

The Merrill Team Financial Advisor (TFA) Development Program is a structured program designed for individuals ready to transition into a career as a Financial Advisor. The TFA program focuses on building a successful book of business by developing strong client relationships and providing personalized investment advice. TFAs will engage in all aspects of the wealth management process, from sourcing prospective clients and assessing their needs to recommending tailored investment products and services. Throughout the program, TFAs receive support and mentorship from experienced Financial Advisors to ensure their success.

Your Role

As a Merrill Team Financial Advisor, you will:

• Develop a Book of Business: Build and grow a client base by sourcing prospective clients through referrals, networking, and personalized marketing techniques. Your goal is to meet and exceed performance hurdles.
• Client Assessment and Solutions: Understand client needs by evaluating their objectives, resources, time horizon, risk profile, and preferences. Recommend suitable investment products and services to meet those needs.
• Balance Responsibilities: Manage day-to-day and long-term responsibilities, including investment growth, customer follow-up, administrative compliance, prospecting, and personal development.
• Resource Management: Plan and manage resources such as time, people, and budget to run an efficient and productive practice.
• Leverage Expertise: Work with specialists to identify planning and investment strategies for clients and seek their expertise when necessary.
• Relationship Management: Maintain strong relationships with the management team and keep them informed of any circumstances requiring supervisory attention or approval.
• Complete Training Requirements: Participate in ongoing training, assessments, and continuing education to meet development goals and transition into a full Financial Advisor role.

What You Will Gain

As a participant in the Merrill TFA Development Program, you will benefit from:

• Merrill and Bank of America Brand Strength: Leverage the reputation and recognition of Merrill and Bank of America.
• World-Class Training: Access to extensive training programs that support your career growth throughout your journey with Merrill Wealth Management.
• Advanced Technology: Utilize state-of-the-art software programs and tools to assist in your success.
• Comprehensive Product Offerings: Access to a full range of investment and banking products to meet your clients’ diverse needs.
• Mentorship and Coaching: Receive guidance from coaches and mentors within your office to help you succeed in your role.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The Merrill Team Financial Advisor Development Program is ideal for individuals who have at least three years of full-time sales experience in increasingly challenging environments. Candidates should have experience using outbound sales techniques to exceed sales goals and possess a strong financial acumen gained through work experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performance Hurdles: Acquire clients through personalized marketing techniques and meet minimum performance hurdles.
• Licensing Requirements: Obtain necessary licenses and registrations (Series 7 and Series 66, and Insurance).
• Education Requirement: Complete the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Investment Planning Course and the Financial Planning Course.
• Development Assessments: Successfully complete ongoing Developmental Assessments that cover Merrill strategy, products and services, wealth management processes, sales skills, and financial planning knowledge.
• Transition to Financial Advisor: Meet performance and development requirements to transition to a full Financial Advisor at the conclusion of the program.

Required Qualifications

• Sales Experience: Proven ability to engage with and influence others with at least three years of full-time sales experience.
• Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional relationship-building skills and the ability to quickly build trust and credibility with clients.
• Communication Skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to assess client needs and recommend appropriate solutions.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and with key partners.
• Client Sourcing: Ability to source clients through prospecting and networking in an environment where the majority of compensation is tied to performance.
• Technical Proficiency: Computer/technical literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Desired Qualifications

• Education: A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree.
• Track Record of Success: Demonstrated history of success in sales and client management.
• CRM Proficiency: Experience using Salesforce or other Client Relationship Manager tools.
• Financial Knowledge: A strong understanding of the Financial Advisor role and the financial services industry.

Additional Requirements

This position is subject to SAFE Act registration requirements. Employees engaged in residential loan mortgage originations must register with the federal registry system and remain in good standing. Failure to obtain and/or maintain SAFE Act registration may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.