Hiring Now! Associate Financial Advisor

Position Overview

Associate Financial Advisors (AFAs) provide technical financial planning and investment management work, usually with other professional financial advisors in the firm, and are under the supervision of a Lead Advisor and/or Senior Advisor. They are focused 100% on serving, supporting, and managing clients collaboratively with more experienced advisors. They support client meetings and aid in the navigation of clients through the entire financial planning experience and decision-making process. This includes, but is not limited to, taking notes, preparing, and discussing client financial plans appropriate for client situations. They will aid in the coordination of the planning process and oversee tasks needing completed for the client.

AFA’s spend the vast majority of their time in client meetings with a Lead Advisor or Senior Advisor, and then delegating and completing tasks to other members of the team, including client service associates. This position can be an entry-level position for college graduates with a degree in financial planning, who have passed an exam for a designation, have the appropriate license requirements to give advice, and/or those who are earning work experience to use a designation. They can give advice to clients and are able to make recommendations (with the supervision of higher-level advisors) on client financial plans and investments. The Associate Financial Advisor position doesn’t usually require marketing and sales abilities.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Focused support and second chair duties in client meetings with an ability to add value to the conversation while gathering data and action items for follow-up.

• Coordinates with Senior and Lead Advisors in the development and preparation of clients’ financial plans, developing recommendations and solutions in the best interest of the client and ensuring those plans are executed.

• Communicating with clients by understanding the needs, objectives, goals, concerns and translating these into an actionable and disciplined financial plan and investment strategy.

• Coordinating with client’s other advisors (attorney, CPA, etc.) and other external sources to carry out the goals of client service.

• Provide client follow-up and engagement with clients, pre and post meeting, as well as other needs and communications as they arise.

• Preparing and making recommendations for client financial plans, including entering data and running reports using financial planning and investment research software.

• Preparing and making recommendations on client investments, including the creation of investment policy statements and portfolio allocation reports.

• Acting as backup for Lead Advisors on advisory questions from clients.

• Assisting Lead Advisors with client communications, such as the writing newsletters and economic reports.

• Delegating non-advisory follow-up work to client service team.

Typical skills and knowledge requirements: 

• Technical knowledge in financial planning and investment management

• Knowledge of investment advisory compliance and regulations

• Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, empathy and listening)

• Demonstrates personal integrity, honesty and can keep confidential information 

• Ability to deal with stress in an ever-changing investment market and changing client needs

• Excellent time management

• Strong organizational skills, and ability to prioritize multiple tasks and anticipate potential problems

Typical experience and education requirements:

Entry-Level:

• Bachelor’s degree in financial planning from a CFP registered university undergraduate, graduate, or certificate program

• Basic knowledge of financial planning principles and investment strategies.

• Internships or entry-level positions in financial services

• Familiarity with financial software and tools used for analysis and planning.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Mid-Level:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business, or a related field with CFP certification or Bachelor’s degree in financial planning from a CFP registered university undergraduate, graduate, or certificate program

• 2-5 years of experience in financial advisory or related roles.

• Proficiency in financial planning software and tools for comprehensive client analysis.

• Proven ability to assist in developing and implementing financial plans tailored to clients' needs.

• Experience in client relationship management and providing personalized financial advice.

Senior-Level:

• CFP certification or equivalent required.

• 5+ years of experience, with a growing portfolio of client relationships.

• Expertise in complex financial planning strategies, tax planning, estate planning, and investment management.

• Leadership skills to mentor other associate advisors

• Established reputation for delivering high-quality, personalized financial advice and services

Specialized Associate Financial Advisors:

• Additional certifications or specialized training in areas such as retirement planning, estate planning, or investment management.

• Extensive experience in a specialized area (e.g., high-net-worth clients, corporate retirement plans, emerging wealth).

• In-depth knowledge of industry-specific regulations and compliance requirements.

• Ability to provide expert advice and support tailored to the specialized area.

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in developing specialized financial plans.

Continuing Education:

• Commitment to ongoing professional development through advanced certifications (e.g., CFP, CFA) and continuing education courses.

• Staying updated on changes in financial regulations, tax laws, and market trends.

• Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and networking events.

• Continuous learning to enhance skills in financial analysis, client relationship management, and advisory services.

• Maintaining memberships in professional organizations and adherence to ethical standards in financial advising.

Location, pay and benefits:

• Usually paid a base salary and bonus with career advancement opportunities.

• Full range of benefits, including health and retirement.

• Remote work and in-office positions are available.

• Locations across the US are currently being hired.