Merrill Advisor Development Program - Financial Advisor: Chicago Metro Market

Advisor Development Program – Financial Advisor As an Advisor Development Program – Financial Advisor, you will work with high‑net‑worth individuals to identify needs, develop relationships, review financial goals, and deliver comprehensive recommendations that align with clients’ objectives. Key Responsibilities Develop a book of business to meet and exceed performance hurdles. Prioritize sourcing prospective clients, capitalize on referrals, assess customer needs, and refer customers to appropriate internal specialists. Recommend investment products and services suitable for prospects based on objectives, resources, time horizon, risk profile, and preferences. Balance investment growth, referral activities, client follow‑up, prospect building, administrative compliance, and personal growth across day‑to‑day and long‑term planning. Organize and manage resources (time, people, budget) to run a productive practice. Seek specialist expertise when appropriate to identify planning and investment strategies. Complete mandated training, assessments, performance goals, and continuing education requirements. Handle inbound inquiries from leads regarding Merrill offerings, collect client profile data using standard KYC procedures, and serve as an interim Financial Advisor recommending suitable investment products. Document all client interactions and opportunities within Salesforce accurately. Required Qualifications Current Series7 and Series66 licenses (or Series63 and65 in lieu of 66). Minimum one year of experience working in the financial services industry and/or a sales environment where goals were met or exceeded. Minimum 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 build trust and credibility quickly. Proven ability to assess needs and recommend appropriate solutions/interventions. Proven ability to work collaboratively on a team and with key partners. Active listening and probing for clarity and understanding. Entrepreneurial mindset with a proven ability to source clients through 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. Desired Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and/or a minimum of one year of financial services or sales experience. Adaptability to new technology or applications. Ability to execute multiple tasks simultaneously. Key Skills Business Acumen, Business Development, Oral Communications, Prospecting, Wealth Planning, Analytical Thinking, Client Experience, Branding, Client Investments, Management, Portfolio Analysis, Risk Management, Active Listening, Client Solutions, Advisory, Emotional Intelligence, Referral Management, Trading. Regulatory & Safety Requirements This position is subject to SAFE Act registration requirements. All 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 immediate termination. Shift & Hours Shift: 1st shift (United States of America) • Hours per week: 40 Pay Base salary: $80,000.00 – $90,000.00 annualized, commensurate with experience, education, and skill set. This role is eligible to participate in a formulaic incentive plan based on performance metrics. Benefits This role is currently benefits eligible. Employees receive industry‑leading benefits, paid time off, and resources to support physical, emotional, and financial well‑being. #J-18808-Ljbffr