Lead Wealth Advisor

Location: New Jersey
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Senior-Level (8+ years)

Company Overview

Our clients established wealth management firm in NJ is seeking an exceptional Lead Wealth Advisor to join their growing team. We specialize in providing comprehensive financial planning and investment management services to high-net-worth individuals and families with assets ranging from $1 million to $50 million. Their client-centric approach focuses on building long-term relationships while delivering sophisticated wealth management solutions tailored to each client's unique needs and objectives.

Position Summary

The Lead Wealth Advisor will serve as the primary relationship manager for a select portfolio of high-net-worth clients, providing comprehensive wealth management services including investment management, financial planning, estate planning coordination, tax strategy, and risk management. This role requires a seasoned professional who can lead client relationships, mentor junior advisors, and contribute to the strategic growth of our practice.

Key Responsibilities

Client Relationship Management

Serve as primary point of contact for 75+ high-net-worth client relationships ($1M-$50M in assets)
Conduct comprehensive financial planning reviews and develop customized wealth management strategies
Lead quarterly and annual client review meetings, presenting portfolio performance and strategic recommendations
Proactively identify opportunities to deepen client relationships and expand service offerings
Coordinate with internal specialists and external professionals (attorneys, CPAs, insurance professionals) to deliver integrated solutions

Financial Planning & Investment Management

Develop and implement comprehensive financial plans addressing retirement planning, education funding, estate planning, and philanthropic goals
Design and manage sophisticated investment portfolios aligned with client risk tolerance and objectives
Conduct asset allocation analysis and rebalancing strategies across multiple asset classes
Monitor portfolio performance and provide detailed reporting and analysis to clients
Stay current on market conditions, investment products, and regulatory changes affecting client portfolios

Business Development & Growth

Identify and pursue new client acquisition opportunities through referrals and networking
Participate in client events, seminars, and community activities to enhance firm visibility
Collaborate with centers of influence (CPAs, attorneys, insurance professionals) to generate referrals
Contribute to the development of marketing materials and thought leadership content
Mentor and support junior advisors in client service and business development activities

Tax & Estate Planning Coordination

Provide sophisticated tax planning strategies and coordinate implementation with client tax professionals
Work closely with estate planning attorneys to ensure alignment between investment strategies and estate plans
Advise on charitable giving strategies, including donor-advised funds and charitable remainder trusts
Coordinate generation-skipping strategies and family wealth transfer planning
Stay current on tax law changes and their implications for high-net-worth clients

Team Leadership & Mentoring

Provide guidance and mentorship to junior wealth advisors and support staff
Lead client service standards and best practices within the team
Participate in hiring decisions and training programs for new team members
Contribute to firm strategic planning and operational improvements

Required Qualifications

Education & Certifications

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or related field (Master's degree preferred)
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification required
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license strongly preferred
Series 7, 66, and state insurance licenses (or ability to obtain within 90 days)

Experience

Minimum 8+ years of experience in wealth management, financial planning, or related field
Proven track record managing high-net-worth client relationships ($1M+ in assets)
Experience with complex financial planning scenarios including estate planning, tax planning, and business succession
Demonstrated success in client acquisition and relationship development
Experience mentoring and developing junior team members

Technical Skills

Proficiency with financial planning software (eMoney, MoneyGuidePro, or similar)
Advanced knowledge of investment products, portfolio management, and asset allocation strategies
Strong understanding of tax planning strategies for high-net-worth individuals
Familiarity with estate planning concepts and wealth transfer strategies
Proficiency in CRM systems and Microsoft Office Suite

Core Competencies

Exceptional communication and presentation skills with ability to explain complex concepts clearly
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
High attention to detail and commitment to fiduciary standards
Proven ability to build trust and maintain long-term client relationships
Leadership capabilities with experience managing teams or mentoring professionals
Strong business development and networking skills

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in Finance, Taxation, or related field
Additional certifications such as CFA, ChFC, or AEP
Experience with alternative investments and sophisticated planning strategies
Established book of business or strong referral network
Previous experience in a leadership or team management role
Knowledge of trust and estate administration

What We Offer

Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
Performance-based bonus structure with significant upside potential
Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans
Professional development opportunities and continuing education support
Excellent work-life balance
State-of-the-art technology and research resources
Collaborative, client-focused team environment

Growth Opportunities

This role offers significant potential for career advancement, including opportunities to:

Build and lead your own client advisory team
Specialize in niche markets or specific client segments
Contribute to firm strategic initiatives and expansion plans
Develop expertise in emerging areas of wealth management