What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Financial Advisor position at Lifeworks Advisors?
Executive Summary
At Lifeworks Advisors, we believe that exceptional client outcomes are achieved through
teamwork. Our success in managing almost two thousand client relationships directly results
from our collaborative culture, where each team member understands their role and contributes
meaningfully to our shared mission.
Our Core Philosophy on Teamwork
Excellence is achieved through collaboration. A unified team working toward shared goals will
consistently outperform individual efforts, creating solutions that exceed the sum of individual
contributions. We operate as one team, where individual excellence contributes to collective
success. Every role at Lifeworks is designed to support our primary objective: delivering
superior investment advisory services that help our clients achieve their financial goals.
Commitment to Professional Growth & Development
Lifeworks Advisors is committed to fostering an environment where every team member can
grow professionally and personally. We provide ongoing training, mentorship opportunities, and
clear pathways for advancement. We encourage continuous learning, support professional
certifications, and create opportunities for cross-functional collaboration that broadens skill sets
and deepens understanding of our business.
Living Our Core Values
We expect every team member to embody our core values in their daily work. Each client
interaction, strategic decision, and collaborative effort should reflect our commitment to
stewardship, teamwork, authenticity, courage, discipline, and truth. This commitment to our
values enables us to deliver on our promise and build lasting relationships with our clients.
Our Promise
To help our clients live intentionally.
Values
Our values empower us to deliver on our promise to help clients live better lives.
Stewardship
Stewardship involves thoughtful management and protection of what matters most. It extends
beyond managing financial assets, preserving and enhancing all aspects of our client's legacies
for future generations. It is a framework for intentionally preserving, protecting, maximizing, and
passing on what matters most to those we love and are responsible to.
Example: Helping clients align their wealth with their values to create a meaningful impact for
their families and communities.
Teamwork
Excellence is achieved through collaboration. A unified team working toward shared goals will
consistently outperform individual efforts, creating solutions that exceed the sum of individual
contributions. A high-performing team will always outperform a high-performing individual.
Example: Regular cross-functional collaboration between advisors, clients, CPAs, and
investment specialists to develop a sound strategy and wise decisions.
Authenticity
We build genuine relationships by being transparent, honest, and humble. In a world of
superficial connections, we stand apart through sincere engagement and honest conversations
about what matters most. Authenticity strips away the facade of posturing and exposes the
genuine person beneath.
Example: Discuss candidly with clients about their fears, aspirations, and family dynamics to
create truly personalized financial plans.
Courage
Success requires taking calculated risks and challenging conventional wisdom. We thoroughly
research options, seek expert counsel, and make strategic decisions aligned with our vision and
values. Our choices are calculated, and the cost is carefully weighed against the value created
by a successful outcome.
Example: Recommending unconventional but appropriate strategies when they better serve a
client's unique situation.
Discipline
Consistent execution and unwavering focus on long-term objectives drive success. We maintain
high standards and follow through on our commitments. As Jocko Willink says, "Discipline
equals freedom."
Example: Adhering to our investment philosophy and client service standards even during
market volatility or challenging times.
Truth
Trust is built on honesty. We communicate openly with our team and clients, even during
difficult conversations. Clear, truthful communication shows respect and builds lasting
relationships. Speaking the truth is the foundation of building trust.
Example: Providing direct feedback about financial behaviors or decisions that may hinder a
client's goals.
Position Overview
Experienced financial advisor responsible for managing significant client relationships and
leading client service teams. This role requires advanced planning expertise, demonstrated
leadership ability, and proven success in growing client relationships.
Reports To: Senior Advisor
Career Path
- Typical Time in Role: 3-5 years
- Previous Role: Associate Advisor
- Next Position: Senior Advisor
Key Milestones for Advancement
- Professional designation required (CFP, CFA, ChFC, or CPA)
- Consistent achievement of revenue and referral targets
- Strong team leadership and mentoring capabilities
- Demonstrated ability to handle complex client situations
Key Success Metrics
Business Development (40%)
- Achieve 10% annual revenue growth from existing clients
- Generate a minimum 12 qualified referrals annually
- Maintain 90% client satisfaction rating
- Retain 95% of client relationships annually
- Develop 2 loyal client advocates
Team Leadership (30%)
- Successfully manage client service team
- Mentor Associate and Service Advisors
- Drive team performance and development
- Ensure high-quality client deliverables
- Lead implementation of strategic initiatives
Technical Leadership (30%)
- Develop and execute complex financial plans
- Lead strategic planning for key clients
- Create innovative planning solutions
- Contribute to the firm's intellectual capital
- Stay current with industry trends
Core Responsibilities
Client Relationship Management
- Serve as primary advisor for significant relationships
- Lead the Family Strategic Planning process
- Oversee the implementation of client solutions
- Manage sensitive client situations
- Identify and develop new business opportunities
Team Leadership
- Direct client service team activities
- Provide technical guidance to team members
- Ensure consistent service delivery
- Monitor team performance
- Foster professional development
Practice Management
- Contribute to the firm's growth strategy
- Develop and maintain professional networks
- Represent the firm at industry events
- Support marketing initiatives
- Ensure regulatory compliance
Required Competencies
Technical Excellence
- Professional designation required
- Advanced planning expertise
- Investment management proficiency
- Deep industry knowledge
- Strategic thinking ability
Leadership Skills
- Team development
- Business development
- Project management
- Problem-solving
- Decision-making
- Relationship building
Professional Impact
- Executive presence
- Public speaking
- Negotiation skills
- Conflict resolution
- Change management