Are you struggling to land interviews for financial planner positions despite your expertise in investment strategies and passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals? You’re not alone. Many qualified financial planners find themselves overlooked simply because their resume doesn’t effectively showcase their ability to develop comprehensive financial strategies, build lasting client relationships, and navigate complex regulatory requirements that Australian financial services firms desperately need.
Whether you’re a recent finance graduate looking to enter financial planning, transitioning from another financial services role, or re-entering the workforce after obtaining additional qualifications, crafting a compelling financial planner resume is your gateway to securing interviews with leading wealth management firms, independent advisory practices, and major financial institutions across Australia. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a professional resume that highlights your analytical skills, client relationship management expertise, and regulatory compliance knowledge – all tailored specifically for the Australian financial services industry.
From understanding the preferred resume formats used by Australian financial planning firms to showcasing your experience with portfolio management, retirement planning, and client advisory services, we’ll cover everything you need to know. You’ll discover how to present your professional qualifications, highlight relevant certifications, and create a professional summary that immediately captures the attention of practice principals and wealth management directors looking for their next financial planning professional.
Financial Planner Resume (Text Version)
Michael Chen
Certified Financial Planner
Phone: 0478 901 234
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelchen-cfp
Address: Sydney, New South Wales 2000
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Results-driven Certified Financial Planner with 7+ years of experience developing comprehensive wealth management strategies for high-net-worth individuals and families. Expertise in retirement planning, investment portfolio management, and tax-effective strategies with proven track record of growing client assets under management by $25M+ while maintaining 95% client retention rate. Skilled in relationship management, regulatory compliance, and complex financial analysis with deep understanding of Australian superannuation, taxation, and estate planning regulations. Passionate about empowering clients to achieve financial independence through strategic planning and disciplined investment approaches.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Senior Financial Planner | Wealth Partners Australia | March 2020 – Present
• Manage comprehensive financial planning for 120+ high-net-worth clients with combined assets under advice exceeding $35M
• Develop sophisticated investment strategies incorporating direct shares, managed funds, SMSFs, and alternative investments, achieving average portfolio returns of 8.2% annually
• Conduct detailed financial analysis and modelling using AdviserLogic and XPLAN to optimise tax outcomes and retirement projections
• Lead annual review meetings and strategy sessions, maintaining 98% client satisfaction scores and generating $2.8M in additional revenue through referrals
• Ensure full compliance with FASEA education requirements, Code of Ethics, and ASIC regulatory obligations across all client interactions
• Mentor junior advisers and paraplanning staff, contributing to team development and practice growth initiatives
Financial Planner | Commonwealth Bank Financial Planning | June 2018 – February 2020
• Provided holistic financial advice to 80+ clients across superannuation, insurance, investment, and estate planning strategies
• Specialised in retirement planning for pre-retirees and retirees, implementing transition-to-retirement and account-based pension strategies
• Achieved 92% implementation rate on financial planning recommendations through clear communication and ongoing client support
• Collaborated with accountants, lawyers, and other professionals to deliver coordinated advice on complex client matters
• Maintained detailed client records and advice documentation ensuring compliance with licensee requirements and regulatory standards
• Contributed to business development through networking activities and client referral programs
Associate Financial Planner | Henderson Maxwell | January 2017 – May 2018
• Supported senior financial planners with research, analysis, and preparation of comprehensive financial plans
• Conducted initial client fact-finding meetings and prepared detailed statements of advice under supervision
• Specialised in insurance needs analysis and superannuation optimisation strategies for young professionals and families
• Developed expertise in SMSF establishment and ongoing compliance requirements
• Contributed to client seminars and educational workshops on financial planning topics
EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS
Master of Applied Finance | Macquarie University | 2019
Specialisation: Financial Planning and Wealth Management
Relevant coursework: Portfolio theory, derivatives and risk management, behavioural finance, estate planning, superannuation law
Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) | University of New South Wales | 2016
Major in Finance, Minor in Economics
Relevant coursework: Corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets, banking and finance, quantitative methods
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP) – Financial Planning Association of Australia (Current)
• Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning – Kaplan Professional (2017)
• FASEA Financial Adviser Exam – Passed (2019)
• RG146 Generic Knowledge and Derivatives Tier 1 (Current)
• SMSF Specialist Advisor (SSA) – SMSF Association (2021)
KEY COMPETENCIES
• Comprehensive financial planning and wealth management strategy
• Investment portfolio construction and ongoing management
• Retirement planning and superannuation optimisation
• Tax-effective investment structures and estate planning
• Risk management and insurance needs analysis
• Client relationship management and business development
• Regulatory compliance and professional ethics
SPECIALISATION AREAS
• High Net Worth Planning: Complex investment structures, family trusts, international investments
• Retirement Strategies: Transition-to-retirement, account-based pensions, aged care planning
• SMSF Management: Establishment, investment strategy, compliance and administration
• Business Owners: Succession planning, buy-sell agreements, business insurance strategies
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS
• Finalist for Excellence in Financial Planning – FPA Professional Excellence Awards (2023)
• Achieved top 10% performance ranking in client satisfaction surveys across licensee network
• Successfully guided 50+ clients through COVID-19 market volatility with minimal portfolio losses
• Published article on superannuation strategies in Financial Planning Magazine (2022)
What is The Best Format for a Financial Planner Resume?
For financial planner positions in Australia, the reverse chronological format is strongly recommended as it clearly demonstrates your career progression through increasingly complex client relationships and sophisticated planning responsibilities. This format allows hiring managers to quickly assess your most recent client management experience and understand how your expertise with different financial planning areas and regulatory requirements has evolved, which is crucial in a highly regulated profession where experience and qualifications directly impact client outcomes.
Font and Typography Guidelines:
• Heading Font: Use 18-22pt for your name and 14-16pt for section headings
• Body Font: Stick to 10-12pt for all body text to ensure readability
• Font Style: Professional fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri convey trustworthiness and attention to detail essential in financial services
• Margins: Maintain 1-inch margins on all sides to provide adequate white space
• File Type: Always submit as PDF unless specifically requested otherwise, as this preserves formatting across different systems
Essential Resume Sections:
Header: Include your full name with relevant professional designations (CFP, ChFC, etc.), phone number, professional email address, LinkedIn profile, and city/state. Professional credentials are particularly important in financial planning.
Summary: Provide a compelling 3-4 line overview highlighting your planning experience, client relationship achievements, assets under management, and professional qualifications. This section should immediately establish your credibility as a financial services professional.
Experience: List your work history in reverse chronological order, emphasising client relationship management, assets under advice, planning strategies implemented, and compliance achievements.
Education: Include your finance-related qualifications, particularly degrees and professional certifications that support financial planning practice.
Other Sections: Consider adding professional certifications, specialisation areas, and memberships in organisations like the Financial Planning Association of Australia.
What Experience Should Be on Your Financial Planner Resume?
Your experience section should emphasise your ability to build trusted client relationships, develop comprehensive financial strategies, and navigate complex regulatory requirements while delivering measurable results for clients. Focus on quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact on client outcomes, business growth, and compliance excellence. Australian financial planning employers value experience with local regulatory frameworks, understanding of superannuation and taxation systems, and ability to work within Australia’s evolving professional standards.
Highlight specific client demographics served, planning specialisations developed, assets under management growth, and any experience with Australian financial services regulations and compliance requirements. Include metrics around client retention, portfolio performance, and business development that showcase your effectiveness as a financial planning professional.
Correct Example:
Financial Planner | Sydney Wealth Management | February 2019 – Present
• Provide comprehensive financial planning services to 95+ high-net-worth clients, growing assets under advice from $18M to $32M through strategic portfolio management and new client acquisition
• Develop sophisticated retirement and investment strategies incorporating superannuation, direct investment portfolios, and tax-effective structures, achieving average annual returns of 7.8% over market cycle
• Conduct detailed financial modelling and scenario analysis using advanced planning software, enabling clients to make informed decisions on major financial goals
• Maintain 96% client retention rate through proactive communication, regular portfolio reviews, and responsive service during market volatility periods
• Ensure full compliance with FASEA Code of Ethics, best interests duty, and ASIC regulatory requirements across all advice delivery
• Generate $450K annual revenue through comprehensive fee-for-service model and ongoing portfolio management fees
Incorrect Example:
Financial Planner | Investment Company | 2019 – Present
• Helped clients with financial planning
• Managed investment portfolios
• Met with clients regularly
• Followed compliance rules
• Grew the business
Entry-Level Financial Planner Resume Samples [Experience]
For entry-level positions, focus on relevant education, internship experiences, financial services exposure, and any client-facing experience that demonstrates relationship management capabilities. Emphasise your professional qualifications, analytical skills, and commitment to ethical financial advice.
Correct Example:
Graduate Financial Planner | Melbourne Financial Services | January 2024 – Present
• Support senior financial planners with comprehensive advice delivery to 40+ clients under supervision, contributing to detailed financial analysis and strategy development
• Conduct thorough fact-finding interviews and prepare initial financial assessments for new clients across diverse demographics and financial situations
• Assist with portfolio rebalancing and ongoing investment monitoring, ensuring alignment with client risk profiles and investment objectives
• Develop expertise in superannuation regulations and tax-effective investment strategies through practical application in real client scenarios
• Maintain detailed client files and compliance documentation ensuring adherence to licensee requirements and regulatory standards
• Apply knowledge from financial planning studies to contribute innovative solutions to complex client planning challenges
Incorrect Example:
New Financial Planner | Finance Firm | 2024
• Learning about financial planning
• Work with senior staff
• Meet some clients
• Still gaining experience
• Hope to develop skills
How to Write the Education Section for your Financial Planner Resume
The education section is particularly crucial for financial planners, as formal qualifications are now mandatory under FASEA requirements and demonstrate your competency to provide professional financial advice. Your educational background must include approved qualifications and ongoing professional development that supports your ability to deliver comprehensive financial planning services in accordance with Australian professional standards.
Include your finance-related degree, institution name, graduation date, and relevant coursework that applies to financial planning. If you’ve completed additional professional qualifications like CFP certification or specialist designations, highlight these prominently to show your comprehensive preparation. Australian financial planning firms highly value ongoing professional development and regulatory compliance training.
Financial Planner Resume Example [Education]
Master of Financial Planning | Griffith University | 2021
FASEA Approved Qualification
Relevant coursework: Advanced investment analysis, superannuation and retirement planning, estate planning strategies, behavioural finance, ethics and professional practice
Bachelor of Business (Finance) | Queensland University of Technology | 2019
Distinction Average
Relevant coursework: Corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets and institutions, risk management, quantitative methods
Professional Qualifications:
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP) – Financial Planning Association of Australia (2022)
• Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning – Kaplan Professional (2020)
• FASEA Financial Adviser Exam – Completed (2020)
Continuing Professional Development:
• Advanced Superannuation Strategies Workshop – SMSF Association (2023)
• Estate Planning for Financial Advisers – Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (2023)
• Behavioural Finance and Client Psychology – FPA Queensland (2022)
How to Write the Skills Section for your Financial Planner Resume
The skills section of your financial planner resume should strategically balance technical financial expertise with relationship management and communication abilities that Australian financial planning employers prioritise. Aim for 12-16 carefully selected skills that demonstrate your comprehensive capability as a financial planner who can analyse complex financial situations while building trusted advisory relationships. Focus on skills that reflect current industry standards and technology used in Australian financial planning practice.
This section should complement your experience by highlighting specific analytical techniques, software proficiencies, and client relationship skills that contribute to successful financial planning outcomes and practice growth.
Financial Planner Resume Skills (Hard Skills)
• Comprehensive financial planning and wealth management strategy
• Investment portfolio analysis and construction
• Retirement and superannuation planning strategies
• Tax planning and tax-effective investment structures
• Estate planning and wealth transfer strategies
• Risk management and insurance needs analysis
• Financial modelling and cash flow projections
• SMSF establishment and ongoing management
• Regulatory compliance and professional ethics
• Financial planning software proficiency (XPLAN, AdviserLogic, Coin)
• Research and due diligence on investment products
• Business and succession planning for business owners
Financial Planner Resume Skills (Soft Skills)
• Client relationship building and retention
• Active listening and empathetic communication
• Complex financial concept explanation and education
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Attention to detail and accuracy in financial analysis
• Time management and priority setting across multiple clients
• Ethical decision-making and professional integrity
• Adaptability to changing market conditions and regulations
• Presentation and public speaking abilities
• Cross-cultural communication and sensitivity
• Stress management and composure under pressure
• Continuous learning and professional development mindset
How to pick the best Financial Planner skills:
1. Analyse the job description carefully and identify specific skills mentioned by the employer, particularly those related to client demographics, planning specialities, or technology platforms they use.
2. Match your skills to practice type – boutique advisory firms may value relationship building and holistic planning, while institutional practices might prioritise technical analysis and portfolio management skills.
3. Emphasise current regulatory and technology skills such as FASEA compliance, digital advice platforms, and modern portfolio management techniques increasingly used across Australian financial planning.
4. Include both technical and relationship competencies that demonstrate your ability to conduct sophisticated financial analysis while building meaningful long-term client relationships.
5. Highlight compliance and ethical practice skills that show your understanding of Australian financial services regulations, professional standards, and fiduciary responsibilities.
Financial Planner Resume Examples [Skills]
Technical Skills:
• Investment analysis – Developed diversified portfolios achieving 8.5% average annual returns over 5-year period while managing downside risk effectively
• Retirement planning – Successfully guided 100+ clients through transition-to-retirement strategies, optimising superannuation and tax outcomes
• Financial modelling – Created sophisticated cash flow projections enabling clients to make informed decisions on major life goals and purchases
Client Relationship Skills:
• Relationship management – Maintained 97% client retention rate over 6-year period through proactive communication and responsive service delivery
• Advisory communication – Simplified complex financial concepts for diverse client base, achieving 95% implementation rate on recommendations
Compliance Skills:
• Regulatory adherence – Maintained 100% compliance record across all client advice delivery and documentation requirements
• Professional ethics – Applied FASEA Code of Ethics principles consistently, receiving zero complaints or compliance breaches
Should I Add Bonus Sections to My Financial Planner Resume?
Additional sections can significantly enhance your financial planner resume by demonstrating professional excellence, specialised expertise, and commitment to ongoing development that distinguish you from other candidates. These sections are particularly valuable in the Australian financial planning industry, where professional credentials, thought leadership, and client outcomes are highly valued by employers and clients.
Professional Certifications: CFP, ChFC, and other recognised credentials demonstrate your commitment to professional excellence and ongoing education, which are mandatory requirements under current regulations.
Specialisation Areas: Detailed expertise in specific planning areas helps employers understand your niche capabilities and the client segments you can effectively serve.
Awards and Recognition: Professional awards, industry recognition, or client testimonials provide concrete evidence of exceptional performance and peer acknowledgement.
Publications and Speaking: Articles, presentations, or thought leadership activities demonstrate your expertise and establish your professional reputation within the industry.
Professional Associations: Membership and involvement in FPA, industry bodies, and professional networks shows your commitment to the profession and ongoing development.
Client Metrics: Appropriate statistics about assets under management, client retention, or portfolio performance can demonstrate your track record of success.
Financial Planner Resume Examples [Other Sections]
Correct Example:
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP) – Financial Planning Association of Australia (Current)
• SMSF Specialist Advisor (SSA) – SMSF Association (Current)
• Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) – American College of Financial Services (2022)
• FASEA Financial Adviser Exam – Completed with Distinction (2019)
SPECIALISATION AREAS
• High Net Worth Planning: Family office services, complex investment structures, international investments
• Retirement Strategies: Transition-to-retirement, aged care planning, estate planning integration
• Business Owner Advisory: Succession planning, buy-sell agreements, corporate superannuation
• Investment Management: Multi-asset portfolio construction, alternative investments, ESG integration
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
• Excellence in Client Service Award – Wealth Partners Australia (2023)
• Rising Star Financial Planner – FPA NSW Awards (2021)
• Top Performing Adviser – Commonwealth Bank Financial Planning (2019)
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
• Member, Financial Planning Association of Australia (2017 – Present)
• Member, SMSF Association (2019 – Present)
• Committee Member, FPA Sydney Chapter (2022 – Present)
Incorrect Example:
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS
• Have financial planning qualifications
• Good at different types of planning
• Won some awards
• Member of professional groups
• Manage client money well
• Live in Sydney
Tip: Include relevant interests that demonstrate qualities valuable to financial planning, such as economic research that shows analytical curiosity, community leadership that demonstrates trustworthiness, or long-term investing activities that reflect personal commitment to wealth building principles.
How to write a Financial Planner Resume Objective or Resume Summary
Your professional summary is critical for financial planners as it must immediately establish your professional credibility, technical expertise, and track record of delivering exceptional client outcomes in a highly regulated environment. This 3-4 line section should highlight your planning experience, professional qualifications, client relationship achievements, and the unique value you bring to helping individuals and families achieve their financial objectives through strategic advice and portfolio management.
For experienced financial planners, focus on quantifiable client outcomes, assets under management, professional designations, and specialised expertise. Recent graduates should emphasise their education, professional qualifications, relevant experience, and commitment to ethical financial advice delivery. Always tailor your summary to reflect the specific client focus and planning specialisations mentioned in the job advertisement.
Key elements to include:
• Years of planning experience and client demographics served
• Professional qualifications and regulatory compliance record
• Assets under management or advice and client outcomes achieved
• Specialisation areas and technical expertise
• Commitment to client-first approach and ethical practice standards
Financial Planner Resume Summary Examples
Correct Example:
Distinguished Certified Financial Planner with 9+ years of experience providing comprehensive wealth management strategies for high-net-worth individuals and business owners. Expert in retirement planning, investment management, and tax-effective structures, with proven track record of growing client assets under advice to $45M while achieving 8.3% average annual portfolio returns. Holds CFP and SSA designations with comprehensive understanding of superannuation, estate planning, and regulatory compliance requirements. Passionate about building long-term client relationships and delivering personalised financial solutions that enable clients to achieve financial independence and legacy goals.
Incorrect Example:
Financial planner with experience helping clients with their financial goals. I have qualifications in financial planning and I understand investments and superannuation. I’m good at building relationships with clients and I want to work for a company that values ethical financial advice.
For entry-level candidates, focus on your financial planning education, professional qualifications, any relevant financial services experience, and genuine enthusiasm for helping clients achieve financial security through comprehensive planning and ethical advice delivery.
Entry-Level Financial Planner Resume Summary Examples
Correct Example:
Recently qualified financial planner with Master of Financial Planning degree and CFP certification, combining strong academic foundation with practical experience gained through comprehensive internship program. Demonstrated analytical skills through successful completion of FASEA requirements and practical application of portfolio theory and retirement planning strategies. Passionate about delivering client-focused financial advice and building long-term relationships based on trust and transparency. Eager to apply technical knowledge and ethical practice standards to help individuals and families achieve their financial objectives through evidence-based planning strategies.
Incorrect Example:
New financial planning graduate who wants to help people with their money. I studied financial planning and passed the required exams. I think I would be good at this job because I’m good with numbers and I like helping people plan for the future.
How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Updating Your Financial Planner Resume
Maintaining alignment between your resume and LinkedIn profile is crucial in the Australian financial planning industry, where professional credibility, thought leadership, and client trust significantly influence career advancement and business development opportunities. Your LinkedIn profile should complement your resume while leveraging the platform’s unique features to showcase your financial expertise, professional insights, and engagement with industry developments and regulatory changes.
Unlike your resume, LinkedIn allows for expanded discussion of your financial philosophy, client success stories (maintaining appropriate confidentiality), and engagement with financial markets and planning content that demonstrates your ongoing professional commitment. This is particularly valuable for financial planners, as the profession values both technical competency and thought leadership in financial strategy and wealth management.
LinkedIn Headline Optimisation for Financial Planners
Your LinkedIn headline should immediately communicate your professional credentials and specialisation areas, appealing to potential employers, clients, and professional networks who may view your profile.
Effective Headlines:
• “Certified Financial Planner (CFP) | Wealth Management Specialist | $35M+ AUM | Retirement & Investment Strategies”
• “Financial Planner | High Net Worth Advisory | SMSF Specialist | Helping Clients Achieve Financial Independence”
• “Senior Financial Planner | CFP | 8+ Years Experience | Retirement Planning & Portfolio Management | Sydney”
Ineffective Headlines:
• “Financial Planner”
• “Investment Advisor”
• “Finance Professional”
LinkedIn Summary vs Resume Summary: Key Differences
While your resume summary focuses on measurable achievements and technical qualifications, your LinkedIn summary can elaborate on your financial planning philosophy, approach to client relationships, and vision for wealth management practice. This narrative approach resonates well in the financial services community, where trust, expertise, and personal values are fundamental to client relationships and professional success.
Your LinkedIn summary should expand on your motivation for choosing financial planning, highlight meaningful client outcomes you’ve facilitated (maintaining confidentiality), and demonstrate your understanding of current market conditions and planning strategies. Include keywords that Australian financial planning employers commonly search for, while maintaining a professional voice that reflects your expertise and commitment to client-first principles.
Showcasing Financial Planner Experience on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s format allows you to provide detailed case studies and strategic context that bring your financial planning expertise to life. Use this expanded space to describe complex planning challenges you’ve solved, innovative strategies you’ve implemented, and the long-term value you’ve created for clients and their families.
Consider sharing professional insights about market developments, regulatory changes, or planning strategies that demonstrate your thought leadership and ongoing engagement with professional development. These posts help differentiate your profile and provide evidence of your expertise and commitment to staying current with industry best practices.
LinkedIn Skills and Endorsements for Financial Planners
Select 15-20 skills that represent the full spectrum of financial planning competencies, balancing technical expertise with relationship management and business development capabilities. Prioritise skills frequently mentioned in Australian financial planning job postings, such as “Financial Planning,” “Investment Management,” “Retirement Planning,” “Portfolio Management,” and regulatory compliance areas.
Actively seek endorsements from colleagues, clients (where appropriate), and professional contacts within the financial services community. These endorsements serve as professional testimonials and are particularly valuable in a trust-based profession where credibility and expertise are fundamental to client relationships and career advancement.
LinkedIn Profile Tips for Australian Financial Planners
Network Strategically: Connect with other financial planners, investment professionals, accountants, lawyers, and potential referral sources across Australia. Join LinkedIn groups such as “Financial Planning Association of Australia,” “Australian Financial Services Professionals,” or specialised investment and planning communities.
Share Market Insights: Regularly post about market developments, planning strategies, or regulatory updates that demonstrate your expertise and keep you visible to potential employers and clients while establishing thought leadership.
Highlight Australian Expertise: Include understanding of Australian superannuation system, taxation regulations, estate planning laws, and regulatory frameworks. This local expertise is particularly valuable to employers and clients seeking advisors who understand the domestic financial landscape.
Your LinkedIn profile serves as a dynamic showcase of your financial planning expertise and professional commitment, allowing you to build relationships within Australia’s financial services community while demonstrating your ability to deliver comprehensive wealth management strategies that help clients achieve their long-term financial objectives.
Creating an outstanding financial planner resume requires careful emphasis on your technical expertise, client relationship management, and regulatory compliance record. By following these guidelines and tailoring your content to highlight your planning capabilities, professional qualifications, and client outcomes, you’ll be well-positioned to secure interviews with leading wealth management firms, independent advisory practices, and financial institutions across Australia.
Remember to complement your strong resume with an equally compelling cover letter that demonstrates your understanding of the specific organisation’s client base, investment philosophy, and approach to comprehensive financial planning. For additional guidance on crafting the perfect application package, explore our related resources on financial planner cover letters and analysis of current financial services job advertisements to ensure your application materials work together effectively to showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for advancing your financial planning career.
