Senior Financial Advisor

Our client is a fee-only financial planning firm in Grand Rapids, MI. They are seeking a Senior Financial Advisor who will serve as the primary relationship manager for a select group of high-net-worth clients, delivering comprehensive, high-touch wealth management services. This role is responsible for deepening existing client relationships and making a meaningful contribution through new client development. Day-to-day responsibilities include leading client engagements, formulating and implementing financial and investment strategies, and ensuring an exceptional client experience.

The Senior Financial Advisor takes ownership of client relationships from strategic planning through implementation, working closely with other financial specialists when additional expertise is needed. A strong grasp of the firms investment philosophy and planning approach is essential, along with the judgment to align recommendations with each clients goals. Beyond client work, the advisor works with, trains and supervises other staff in client service delivery. This individual plays an important leadership role by mentoring other advisors, sharing knowledge, and helping maintain a consistently high standard of care and excellence across the firm.

Duties & Responsibilities

Client Relationship Management:
• Serve as Lead Advisor for high-net-worth individuals and families
• Develop and manage ongoing client relationships through regular meetings, personalized communication, and proactive planning
• Lead client and prospect meetings with confidence and clarity
• Deliver objective, unbiased financial planning and investment advice tailored to client goals and circumstances
• Identify planning opportunities and coordinate implementation with internal team and external professionals
• Oversee comprehensive wealth management, including portfolio strategy, tax considerations, estate planning coordination, and other planning areas
• Review meeting materials and planning analysis prepared by Support Advisors prior to client meetings
• Guide planning updates, portfolio changes, performance reviews, and identification of new planning opportunities

Leadership & Advisor Development:
• Provide oversight, mentorship, and guidance to Support Advisors supporting assigned client relationships
• Ensure high-quality preparation, follow-through, and service standards across the advisory team
• Support the professional development of team members through coaching and knowledge sharing
• Contribute to a consistent, firmwide client experience by modeling best practices in client communication and relationship management

Business Development & Growth:
• Proactively cultivate new client relationships through referrals, professional centers of influence, community involvement, and personal networks
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with attorneys, CPAs, and other key referral partners to expand the firms network
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities that align with the firms ideal client profile
• Lead or actively participate in prospect meetings and support the onboarding of new client relationships
• Contribute to firm marketing and visibility efforts, including client events, educational workshops, and thought leadership initiatives
• Represent the firm in community and professional organizations to strengthen brand presence and credibility
• Model and mentor effective business development practices for developing advisors, including networking, follow-up, and relationship-building skills
• Support the refinement and execution of the firms business development process, including tracking opportunities and improving conversion practices

Management Support:
• Assist with the development of client communications as needed (e.g., newsletters, firm communications, etc.)
• Assist Leadership Team members with operational development and improvement as requested
• Assist with special projects as needed

Qualifications & Attributes:
• Bachelor's degree required; Accounting, Finance, Economics, or related field. An advanced degree is preferred but not required.
• CFP® required. Other designations such as CFA, CPA or EA highly valued.
• 7+ years of experience in wealth management, investment management, or related advisory leadership
• Deep understanding of the RIA model and independent financial advice delivery
• Demonstrated success managing complex client relationships and delivering comprehensive financial planning and investment advice
• Strong knowledge of investment principles, portfolio strategy, and advisory best practices
• Experience contributing to firm growth, business development, and client acquisition efforts
• Proven leadership ability, including mentoring, coaching, and developing team members
• Strategic thinker with strong decision-making, problem-solving, and execution skills
• High integrity, professional initiative, and accountability; follows through on commitments
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities
• Collaborative, adaptable team player who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with financial planning, CRM, portfolio management, and document management systems

Compensation and Benefits:
• Base salary ($140k-$190k) plus bonus opportunities
• Health insurance (75% covered)
• 401k with competitive match
• Sabbatical Program
• Opportunity for ownership