Financial Advisor – Merrill Advisor Development Program

Bank of America

. Work with high-net-worth individuals to identify needs, develop relationships, review financial goals, and deliver comprehensive recommendations .

Posted 11/5/2026full-timeNorthbrook • Illinois • United StatesJunior💰 $80,000 - $90,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in financial advisory services, including client relationship management, investment product knowledge, and compliance with regulatory standards. Proven ability to develop a book of business and achieve performance goals through effective communication and collaboration.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Series 7 LicenseSeries 66 LicenseInvestment Product KnowledgeClient Relationship ManagementSales Experience

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Financial Advisory ServicesInvestment StrategiesKYC ProceduresPortfolio GrowthPerformance Goals

Soft Skills

Interpersonal SkillsRelationship BuildingEffective CommunicationTrust BuildingGoal-Oriented

Tools & Technologies

SalesforceMicrosoft WordMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft Excel

Certifications & Qualifications

Series 7 LicenseSeries 66 LicenseSAFE Act Registration

Industry Keywords

Financial ServicesInvestment IndustryClient Needs AssessmentProspectingReferral Activities

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Work with high-net-worth individuals to identify needs, develop relationships, review financial goals, and deliver comprehensive recommendations
Collaborate with and receive mentorship from Merrill Financial Advisor Teams to promote portfolio growth
Develop a book of business to meet and exceed established performance hurdles
Source prospective clients, capitalize on referrals, assess customer needs, refer customers to appropriate internal specialists, and execute customized solutions
Recommend suitable investment products and services based on client objectives, resources, time horizon, risk profile, and preferences
Balance investment growth, referral activities, customer follow-up, prospect building, administrative compliance, and professional development
Organize and manage time, people, and budget to run a productive practice
Consult specialists to identify planning and investment strategies
Complete mandated training, assessments, performance goals, and continuing education
Handle inbound inquiries from leads regarding Merrill offerings
Position Merrill and Bank of America capabilities
Collect client profile data and follow standard KYC procedures to open accounts
Serve as interim Financial Advisor and service client accounts
Document client interactions and opportunities accurately in Salesforce
Provide comprehensive advice, client reviews, and presentations; recommend strategies to help achieve financial goals
Collaborate with core banking and investment partners

Requirements

What you’ll need

Currently holds Series 7 and Series 66 licenses, or Series 63 and Series 65 in lieu of Series 66
Minimum of one year of experience working in the financial services industry and/or a sales environment where goals were met or exceeded
Minimum of one year of experience in the investments industry, including investment training and in-depth knowledge of investment products and services
Proven ability to engage with and influence others
Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Proven ability to quickly build trust and credibility
Proven ability to assess needs and recommend appropriate solutions/interventions
Proven ability to work collaboratively on a team and with key partners
Proven ability to listen and probe for clarity and understanding
Goal- and results-oriented
Entrepreneurial mindset with proven ability to source clients through extensive prospecting and networking
Ability to work in an environment where the majority of compensation is tied to performance
Strong follow-through skills
Computer/technical literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
SAFE Act registration, background check, and registration process required
Must comply with applicable FDIC, SAFE Act, Loan Originators, and FINRA hiring restrictions
Bachelor’s degree and/or a minimum of one year of financial services industry or sales experience (desired qualification)

Benefits

Comp & perks

Formulaic incentive plan eligibility with monthly, quarterly and/or annual incentive opportunities based on performance
Benefits eligibility
Paid time off
Access to employee resources and support
World-class training and onboarding programs
Training and one-on-one coaching through Bank of America Academy and local leadership
Continuing education opportunities