Wealth Advisor

We are currently seeking a Wealth Advisor to join our team.

The Wealth Advisor (WA) is responsible for working with and managing a book of high value members in assigned, multiple branch locations, by offering a full range of investment and financial planning advice including deposit and lending services. The role will work to consolidate investment assets through two broad groups: 1) existing members to consolidate external assets to First West; 2) referrals from existing members and business development that bring new members with wealth. The Wealth Advisor will also meet regularly with assigned members to ensure retention of assets and assist with retirement and/or financial plans. This role will work in close collaboration with retail branch employees and Wealth Planning Specialists to ensure members are receiving the necessary advice and ongoing service. This role will support the Cherry Lane Branch, as well as the Oliver and Keremeos Branches.

Here’s what would be included as a part of your typical day

Financial Planning and Advice: An expert in the wealth discovery process, this role identifies wealth and financial planning needs, and is engaged with both existing and new or potential members to deepen relationships and bring credibility to FWs wealth offering across a territory of assigned branches. The WA uses financial planning tools to develop plans and recommendations to meet the members investing/financial planning goals; meets investment sales targets through advisory sales and financial planning; analyzes and identifies member needs through interview process; identifies member goals and risk tolerance; develops recommendation based on gaps determined; and collaborates with Wealth Planning Specialists to ensure members are receiving comprehensive financial planning. Processes a full range of complex member transactions including, but not limited to: MFDA products, retail mortgages, personal and RRSP loans, opening personal or business accounts, debit/credit cards, LOC/overdraft protection, and related insurance products. Utilizes the Day in the Life as a guideline to prioritize and manage schedules - to align efforts in reaching goals while offering a remarkable, consistent member experience across First West.

Portfolio Management: Manages and grows an assigned four quadrant portfolio of high value members (generally between $250-$500K in investible assets); develops methods and process to ensure members within portfolio are contacted on a regular basis; ensures portfolio reflects the life stage and risk tolerance of the member; makes recommendations on adjustments to portfolio, as required; and drives asset consolidation among members by helping members to implement the recommended financial plan within the credit union.

Business Development: Develops and executes an annual business development plan that includes techniques and methods to be utilized for securing new member accounts or existing member new (external) wealth business; builds collaborative working relationships and teamwork with branch staff to identify current and potential members with investment and financial planning needs; gains introductions to members and identifies their current portfolio and investment needs; identifies and assists in developing opportunities for retail banking products and services with CU branch partners; and develops an internal and external referral network through community events, on-line social media and other networking activities.

Risk Management: Ensures compliance with all FW audit/risk management policies and procedures; adheres to applicable external agency/vendor/government regulatory requirements and standards; maintains a profession standard of conduct at all times while promoting a positive image of the organization; meets annual professional continuing education requirements; and maintains up to date and accurate member files, electronic and physical records, as required.

Required Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• College, Trade or Tech School Diploma (2 years) required
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred
• Mutual funds license required
• PFP designation required.
• CFP or CFA designation preferred.
• 5 years’ experience in financial planning/investment sales with the proven ability to consistently meet or exceed targets required
• 2 years’ experience with retail lending required
• Expert knowledge of the investment industry, products, and the principles of investment advice/financial planning required
• “Four quadrant” member transaction experience preferred
• Proven track record of exceptional sales results preferred
• Retail banking experience preferred
• Superior sales abilities including active listening, identifying business opportunities, influencing & negotiating, asking for the business
• Proven relationship building, networking, and client acquisition skills
• Proven track record achieving or exceeding sales targets in retail lending and investment products and service
• Proven strong communication skills with ability to communicate both verbally and in writing or through presentations with a wide variety of people
• Proficient with computer software programs, e.g. Microsoft Office
• Demonstrated financial planning skills
• Proficient with planning software, e.g. PlanPlus
• Displays an understanding of risk and risk ownership by being able to demonstrate adherence to policies and procedures.