Financial Advisor Resume Examples and How to Write
Struggling to secure financial advisor interviews despite having strong technical knowledge and client relationship skills? You’re not alone. Many talented financial professionals across Australia find themselves caught in the frustrating cycle of applications that don’t convert to opportunities, wondering why their expertise in investment strategy and financial planning isn’t opening doors in this high-demand field.
The truth is that Australia’s financial advisory sector is experiencing significant transformation following the Banking Royal Commission and new educational requirements. Whether you’re a recent graduate from institutions like UNSW Business School, transitioning from banking or insurance, or returning to the industry after completing additional qualifications, your resume must demonstrate both technical competency and genuine commitment to client-focused service.
This comprehensive guide will transform your approach to financial advisor resume writing, providing you with industry-specific examples, compliance-aware strategies, and insider knowledge of what Australian financial planning firms, major banks, and boutique advisory practices are actively seeking. You’ll learn to present your qualifications in a way that builds trust and demonstrates your value to prospective clients and employers.
Financial Advisor Resume (Text Version)
SARAH CHEN
Financial Advisor
Mobile: 0412 345 678
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarahchenfinancialadvisor
Location: Sydney, NSW
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Client-focused financial advisor with 5+ years of experience providing comprehensive financial planning and investment advice to high-net-worth individuals and families. Proven track record of managing $25 million in client assets whilst achieving average portfolio returns 3.2% above market benchmarks. Expert in retirement planning, tax-effective investment strategies, and insurance planning with full compliance to FASEA standards and Code of Ethics.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Senior Financial Advisor | Commonwealth Financial Planning | March 2021 – Present
• Manage comprehensive financial planning for 85+ high-net-worth clients with combined assets under advice of $18 million
• Develop tailored investment strategies resulting in average client portfolio outperformance of 3.2% above ASX 200 benchmark
• Conduct detailed financial needs analysis and prepare Statement of Advice documents ensuring full regulatory compliance
• Build long-term client relationships with 94% client retention rate and $2.1 million in new client acquisitions annually
• Specialise in self-managed super fund (SMSF) strategies, establishing 25+ new funds with average balances of $450,000
Financial Advisor | AMP Financial Planning | June 2019 – February 2021
• Provided financial advice and portfolio management services for 60+ clients across diverse life stages and risk profiles
• Implemented comprehensive retirement planning strategies, helping clients increase superannuation balances by average 18%
• Coordinated with mortgage brokers and accountants to deliver holistic financial solutions for client property investments
• Achieved top 10% performance ranking within AMP advisor network based on client outcomes and satisfaction metrics
• Completed advanced training in estate planning and implemented strategies protecting $5+ million in client family wealth
Associate Financial Advisor | Macquarie Private Wealth | January 2018 – May 2019
• Supported senior advisors in servicing high-net-worth client portfolios valued at $40+ million
• Conducted comprehensive financial analysis and prepared detailed investment research reports for client presentations
• Assisted with client meetings and annual portfolio reviews, gaining experience in relationship management
• Developed expertise in alternative investments including direct shares, managed funds, and structured products
• Completed Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning whilst maintaining full client service responsibilities
EDUCATION
Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning | Deakin University | 2019
Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) | University of Sydney | 2017
• Major: Finance with minor in Economics
• Final Project: “Impact of Superannuation Changes on Retirement Planning Strategies”
• Academic Achievement: High Distinction average (84 WAM)
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
• FASEA-approved Professional Year completed (2020)
• Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning – Kaplan Professional Education (2018)
• RG146 Compliance: Tier 1 Generic Knowledge, Superannuation, Securities, Managed Investments
• SMSF Specialist Advisor (SSA) Designation – SMSF Association (2022)
TECHNICAL SKILLS
• Financial Planning Software: AdviserLogic, XPLAN, Midwinter
• Portfolio Management: Morningstar Direct, FE Analytics
• Research Platforms: Lonsec, Zenith, Morningstar
• Client Relationship Management: Salesforce, ClientView
• Compliance: BetterBusiness, File Notes Pro
ACHIEVEMENTS
• Circle of Excellence Award – Commonwealth Financial Planning (2022, 2023)
• Achieved 94% client retention rate over 4 consecutive years
• Managed portfolio performance: 3.2% above benchmark average over 3-year period
• Professional recognition: Featured in Money Magazine “Rising Stars” list (2023)
What is The Best Format for a Financial Advisor Resume?
The reverse chronological format is essential for financial advisor resumes as it demonstrates your career progression and builds trust through showing consistent experience in financial services. This format is particularly important in Australia’s regulated financial advice sector where employers need to verify your compliance history and professional development journey.
Use professional, trustworthy fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman that convey reliability and attention to detail. Your name should be prominent at 16-18 points, section headings at 12-14 points, and body text at 11-12 points for optimal readability. Maintain consistent 1-inch margins and ensure adequate white space to create a clean, organised appearance that reflects your professional approach.
Always submit as a PDF unless specifically requested otherwise, as this preserves formatting and demonstrates your attention to professional presentation. Your resume should include these essential sections:
Header: Include your full name, professional title (Financial Advisor), mobile number, professional email address, LinkedIn profile, and location (city and state).
Professional Summary: A compelling 3-4 line overview highlighting your experience, specialisations, and key achievements in financial advice.
Experience: Detail your work history in reverse chronological order, focusing on financial advice, planning, and related client service roles.
Education: Include your relevant qualifications, degrees, and professional development that meet current FASEA requirements.
Other sections: Add professional qualifications, technical skills, achievements, or industry recognition that demonstrate your expertise and credibility.
What Experience Should Be on Your Financial Advisor Resume?
Your experience section should demonstrate your growth in providing financial advice whilst showcasing measurable outcomes for clients and employers. Focus on roles that highlight your ability to build client relationships, develop appropriate financial strategies, and maintain regulatory compliance. Include specific achievements with quantified results that show your impact on client wealth and business growth.
Australian employers particularly value financial advisors who understand local superannuation systems, taxation implications, and regulatory requirements. Emphasise experiences that show your commitment to acting in clients’ best interests, professional development, and ability to navigate Australia’s complex financial services regulations.
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Financial Advisor | Westpac Private Bank | April 2020 – Present
• Provide comprehensive financial planning and investment advice for 70+ high-net-worth clients with total assets under management of $22 million
• Develop tailored retirement and investment strategies, achieving average portfolio performance 2.8% above ASX benchmarks over 3-year period
• Complete detailed financial needs analysis and prepare compliant Statement of Advice documents for complex client situations
• Build strong client relationships resulting in 96% retention rate and $3.2 million in referred new business annually
• Specialise in superannuation strategies and estate planning, implementing tax-effective solutions that saved clients average $45,000 annually
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Financial Advisor | Bank | 2020 – Present
• Gave financial advice to clients
• Managed investment portfolios
• Met with customers regularly
• Completed required paperwork
• Helped clients with financial planning
Entry-Level Financial Advisor Resume Samples [Experience]
For entry-level financial advisors, focus on relevant experiences that demonstrate your understanding of financial concepts, client service skills, and commitment to the profession. Include internships, graduate programs, relevant banking experience, or volunteer work with community financial education. Show your dedication to meeting the new educational and ethical standards required in Australia’s financial advice sector.
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Graduate Financial Planner | BT Financial Group | February 2023 – Present
• Complete comprehensive 18-month graduate program covering all aspects of financial planning and client relationship management
• Shadow senior advisors during client meetings and contribute to preparation of Statement of Advice documents
• Conduct detailed financial analysis and research for client portfolios valued at $8+ million under supervision
• Develop technical expertise in superannuation planning, insurance analysis, and investment strategy development
• Maintain detailed study notes and complete monthly compliance assessments whilst working towards full advisor accreditation
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Trainee Advisor | Financial Company | 2023
• Learning about financial planning
• Attending training sessions
• Helping senior staff
• Meeting clients
• Studying for qualifications
How to Write the Education Section for your Financial Advisor Resume
Education is critically important for financial advisors due to the FASEA educational requirements and ongoing professional development obligations. Australian employers need to see that you meet the degree and professional year requirements, and many prefer candidates with relevant finance, economics, or business qualifications from recognised institutions.
Include all relevant tertiary education, professional certificates, and ongoing compliance training. Highlight any specialisations in financial planning, investment management, or related fields that demonstrate your commitment to the profession and technical competency.
Financial Advisor Resume Example [Education]
Graduate Certificate in Applied Finance | Macquarie University | 2021
• Specialisation: Financial Planning and Investment Management
• Capstone Project: “Superannuation Strategies for Pre-Retirees in Australia” – achieved High Distinction
• FASEA-approved bridging course component completed
Bachelor of Business (Finance) | Queensland University of Technology | 2019
• Major: Finance with minor in Accounting
• Relevant Coursework: Investment Analysis, Retirement Planning, Risk Management, Australian Financial Markets
• Academic Achievement: Dean’s List 2018-2019 (GPA: 6.2/7.0)
How to Write the Skills Section for your Financial Advisor Resume
The skills section is crucial for financial advisors as it demonstrates your technical competencies, software proficiencies, and client relationship capabilities. Include 12-16 skills that directly relate to financial advice, balancing technical knowledge with interpersonal skills that show your ability to communicate complex financial concepts effectively.
Focus on skills that are in high demand in Australia’s financial advice sector, including knowledge of local superannuation rules, tax planning strategies, and compliance requirements. Employers particularly value advisors who can combine technical expertise with strong ethical standards and client communication abilities.
Financial Advisor Resume Skills (Hard Skills)
• Comprehensive financial planning and analysis
• Investment portfolio construction and management
• Superannuation and SMSF strategy development
• Tax-effective investment planning
• Estate planning and wealth transfer strategies
• Insurance needs analysis and planning
• Risk profiling and asset allocation
• Financial modelling and cash flow projections
• Retirement planning and pension strategies
• Debt management and structuring
• Statement of Advice preparation
• Regulatory compliance and documentation
• Financial markets analysis and research
• Alternative investment strategies
Financial Advisor Resume Skills (Soft Skills)
• Client relationship building and management
• Active listening and empathy
• Complex financial communication
• Ethical decision-making and integrity
• Trust building and professional credibility
• Consultative selling and needs analysis
• Presentation and public speaking
• Time management and prioritisation
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Continuous learning and adaptability
• Cultural sensitivity and inclusivity
• Stress management and resilience
• Team collaboration and networking
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
How to pick the best Financial Advisor skills:
1. **Review job descriptions** carefully to identify the most in-demand technical and interpersonal skills in your target market
2. **Prioritise compliance-related skills** that demonstrate your understanding of regulatory requirements and ethical obligations
3. **Include client-focused abilities** that show your commitment to acting in clients’ best interests and building long-term relationships
4. **Balance technical and communication skills** to show you can both analyse complex situations and explain solutions clearly
5. **Emphasise skills you can demonstrate** with specific client outcomes or professional development achievements
6. **Stay current with industry changes** and include skills related to new regulations, technologies, and planning strategies
Financial Advisor Resume Examples [Skills]
• Comprehensive Financial Planning: Developed integrated strategies for 90+ clients, resulting in average 22% improvement in retirement readiness scores
• SMSF Strategy Development: Established and managed 35+ self-managed super funds, achieving average returns 4.1% above industry benchmarks
• Client Relationship Management: Maintained 95% client retention rate over 5 years through proactive communication and regular portfolio reviews
• Investment Portfolio Construction: Built diversified portfolios across asset classes, delivering consistent risk-adjusted returns for clients in all market conditions
Should I Add Bonus Sections to My Financial Advisor Resume?
Additional sections are particularly valuable for financial advisor resumes as they demonstrate ongoing professional development, industry engagement, and specialised expertise. These sections are essential in Australia’s regulated financial advice environment where continuous learning and professional credibility are crucial for career advancement.
Consider including Professional Qualifications which are mandatory in Australia’s financial advice sector, including FASEA requirements, RG146 compliance, and specialist designations. Industry Memberships with organisations like the Financial Planning Association or Association of Financial Advisers demonstrate professional commitment. Continuing Professional Development shows your dedication to staying current with regulations and best practices.
Client Testimonials or Case Studies (with appropriate confidentiality) can provide powerful evidence of your effectiveness. Speaking Engagements or Published Articles demonstrate thought leadership. Volunteer Work with financial literacy programs shows community commitment and passion for financial education.
Financial Advisor Resume Examples [Other Sections]
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
• FASEA Standards Authority – Professional Year Completed (2020)
• RG146 Compliance: Tier 1 Generic Knowledge, Superannuation, Securities, Managed Investments, Life Insurance
• Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) – Financial Planning Association of Australia (2022)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
• Full Member, Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) – 2020 to Present
• Professional Member, SMSF Association – 2021 to Present
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Advanced Estate Planning Strategies Workshop – FPA Professional Congress (2023)
• Behavioural Finance and Client Communication Masterclass – Kaplan Professional (2023)
• SMSF Investment Strategy Update – SMSF Association National Conference (2022)
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• Volunteer Financial Counsellor – Financial Rights Legal Centre (2022-Present)
• Guest Speaker – Local High Schools Financial Literacy Program (2021-Present)
INTERESTS
• Finance
• Investing
• Reading
• Golf
OTHER
• Have qualifications
• Member of groups
• Volunteer sometimes
Tip: You can include relevant personal interests like investment clubs, property investment experience, or financial blog writing that demonstrate genuine passion for financial markets and planning. Technology skills like advanced Excel modelling or financial planning software certifications can also add significant value.
How to write a Financial Advisor Resume Objective or Resume Summary
A compelling professional summary is essential for financial advisors as it immediately establishes trust and credibility with potential employers and demonstrates your commitment to client-focused service. This 3-4 line section should capture your experience level, specialisations, client outcomes, and professional qualifications that align with employer requirements.
Focus on quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your ability to help clients achieve their financial goals, such as assets under management, client retention rates, or portfolio performance. Include specific mentions of your compliance status and commitment to ethical practice, which are crucial in Australia’s regulated environment.
• **Quantify your client impact** with specific asset values and client numbers you manage
• **Highlight key specialisations** such as retirement planning, SMSF strategies, or high-net-worth clients
• **Include measurable outcomes** like portfolio performance or client satisfaction rates
• **Mention compliance status** and professional qualifications to establish credibility
• **Reference client-focused approach** that demonstrates your commitment to best interest duty
Financial Advisor Resume Summary Examples
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Client-focused financial advisor with 7+ years of experience providing comprehensive wealth management and investment advice to high-net-worth individuals and families across Australia. Successfully manage $35 million in client assets whilst maintaining 96% client retention rate and achieving portfolio returns consistently 3.5% above market benchmarks. Specialist in superannuation planning, estate strategies, and tax-effective investment structures with full FASEA compliance and CFP® designation. Committed to delivering ethical, transparent advice that puts clients’ best interests first.
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Experienced financial advisor who helps clients with their money and investments. Good with financial planning and investment advice. Hard worker who cares about clients and wants to help them achieve financial goals.
Entry-level candidates should focus on education credentials, professional development, relevant internships or graduate programs, and genuine passion for helping clients achieve financial security. Highlight your commitment to meeting professional standards and building long-term client relationships.
Entry-Level Financial Advisor Resume Summary Examples
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Emerging financial advisor with Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning from Griffith University and successful completion of FASEA professional year requirements. Gained practical experience through 12-month graduate program at major Australian financial institution, supporting senior advisors with client portfolios valued at $15+ million. Strong foundation in superannuation planning, investment analysis, and regulatory compliance with genuine passion for helping Australian families achieve financial security and retirement readiness.
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Recent graduate looking for entry-level financial advisor position. Completed required qualifications and eager to start career in financial planning. Good with numbers and enjoy helping people with their finances.
How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Updating Your Financial Advisor Resume
LinkedIn profile alignment with your resume is critical in Australia’s financial advice industry, where trust, credibility, and professional reputation are paramount to success. Research indicates that 87% of Australian financial services recruiters use LinkedIn as their primary sourcing tool, making profile optimisation essential for career advancement and client acquisition.
Your LinkedIn profile should complement your resume while leveraging the platform’s unique capabilities for thought leadership, client testimonials, and professional networking. This alignment ensures consistent personal branding and maximises your visibility to potential employers, referral partners, and prospective clients across Australia’s financial services ecosystem.
LinkedIn Headline Optimisation for Financial Advisors
EFFECTIVE EXAMPLES:
“Certified Financial Planner® | Comprehensive Wealth Management | Superannuation & Estate Planning Specialist | Sydney”
“Client-Focused Financial Advisor | High-Net-Worth Planning | SMSF Expert | Helping Families Secure Financial Futures”
“Senior Financial Advisor | $25M+ AUM | Retirement Planning Specialist | CFP® | Acting in Clients’ Best Interests”
INEFFECTIVE EXAMPLES:
“Financial Advisor”
“Investment Professional”
“Helping with Financial Goals”
LinkedIn Summary vs Resume Summary: Key Differences
Your LinkedIn summary should adopt a more conversational, first-person tone whilst expanding significantly on your resume’s key points. Unlike your resume’s concise summary, LinkedIn allows 2,000+ characters to tell your professional story, showcase your philosophy about financial advice, and include strategic keywords for Australian financial services searches.
Include your approach to client relationships, insights about Australian financial markets, and your commitment to ethical practice. Mention specific experience with local regulations, superannuation strategies, and tax planning that resonates with Australian clients and employers. Use relevant hashtags like #FinancialPlanning, #SuperannuationStrategy, or #WealthManagement to improve discoverability.
Showcasing Financial Advisor Experience on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s experience section allows for richer storytelling than traditional resume format constraints. Expand your bullet points into detailed descriptions that include client success stories (with appropriate confidentiality), market insights you’ve provided, and collaborative relationships built with accountants, lawyers, and other professionals.
Use LinkedIn’s media feature to showcase client testimonials, case study summaries, or educational content you’ve created. This approach transforms your work history from simple job descriptions into compelling evidence of your expertise and commitment to client success.
LinkedIn Skills and Endorsements for Financial Advisors
Prioritise financial advisor-specific skills such as “Financial Planning,” “Investment Management,” “Superannuation Planning,” “Estate Planning,” and “Client Relationship Management” alongside technical competencies. Actively seek endorsements from clients (where appropriate), professional colleagues, and industry partners you’ve worked with.
Complete LinkedIn skill assessments for relevant areas like “Financial Analysis,” “Investment Banking,” and “Risk Management” to earn skill badges that appear prominently on your profile. These verified assessments provide additional credibility and help your profile rank higher in recruiter and client searches.
LinkedIn Profile Tips for Australian Financial Advisors
Engage actively with Australian financial advice industry content by providing thoughtful commentary on posts from industry leaders, regulatory updates, and market insights. Share educational content about financial planning concepts, superannuation changes, or investment strategies to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to client education.
Join Australian financial planning groups such as “Financial Planning Association of Australia,” “Australian Financial Services Professionals,” and “SMSF Professionals Australia.” Connect strategically with other financial advisors, accountants, lawyers, and industry professionals across major Australian financial centres to build your referral network and professional reputation.
Creating an outstanding financial advisor resume requires balancing technical expertise with client relationship skills, compliance knowledge with strategic thinking, and professional credentials with genuine empathy for clients’ financial concerns. Your resume serves as the crucial first impression that determines whether potential employers will trust you with their clients’ financial futures.
Remember that Australia’s financial advice industry values professionals who combine technical competence with unwavering ethical standards, regulatory knowledge with innovative thinking, and individual success with genuine commitment to clients’ best interests. Your resume should reflect these qualities whilst clearly demonstrating your unique value proposition and career growth potential.
As you finalise your application materials, ensure your resume works seamlessly alongside a compelling cover letter resources that expands on your client-focused philosophy and genuine passion for helping Australians achieve financial security. This combination will position you strongly for success in Australia’s evolving financial advice landscape.
For ongoing professional development and industry connections, consider engaging with the Financial Planning Association of Australia and exploring networking opportunities through professional development events and industry conferences. These relationships, combined with a strategically crafted resume, will accelerate your success in Australia’s dynamic financial advice sector.
