Financial Specialist Job Description, Requirements, and Skills
A financial specialist is a financial professional who guides clients on banking, investments, taxes, insurance and more to help them meet their financial objectives. They analyze clients’ financial situations to offer tailored advice and recommendations based on their particular needs.
Financial specialists have many job duties and responsibilities:
Responsibilities of a Financial Specialist
- Assessing clients’ current financial standing including assets, liabilities, insurance coverage, tax status and financial goals
- Conducting analyses to determine appropriate asset allocations and investment selections
- Developing financial plans with detailed investment recommendations
- Creating risk analysis models to forecast returns
- Monitoring portfolio performance and rebalancing holdings
- Staying current on changing financial regulations and market conditions
Key Duties Include:
- Meeting with Clients to Gather Financial Information
- Analyzing Financial Data and Assessing Requirements
- Preparing Customized Financial Strategies and Investment Plans
- Implementing Investment Portfolios Based on Financing Goals
- Monitoring Investments and Rebalancing As Needed
Requirements to Become a Financial Specialist
Most financial specialist roles require similar qualifications and credentials:
Education/Designations
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics or business administration
- Graduate degree such as MBA (optional but preferred)
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) license
Key Skills and Abilities
- Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills
- Strong math, statistical and reasoning abilities
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- High attention to detail and strong organization
- Ability to synthesize complex financial information
- Proficiency with financial modelling and analysis software
Typical Background
- Internship or work experience in finance or accounting
- 1-4 years in an analyst or adjacent role before becoming a specialist
Financial Specialist Job Description Template
Financial Specialist
We are seeking a skilled Financial Specialist to provide clients with tailored investment strategies and financial plans. The Financial Specialist will analyze client’s financial situation, make suitable recommendations, and monitor investment performance.
Role and Responsibilities
- Meet potential and existing clients to gather information on financial status, objectives, risk tolerance, assets, taxes etc.
- Assess clients’ current finances and future goals to develop modelled financial plans
- Recommend personalized investment portfolios and risk management strategies
- Select appropriate investment vehicles including stocks, bonds, mutual funds etc. based on market research
- Implement approved investment plans and execute requested financial transactions
- Track investments and portfolio performance to identify needed changes
- Rebalance portfolios and reallocate assets to maintain proper asset allocation
- Remain current with financial regulations, macroeconomic trends, and market conditions
- Prepare regular reporting for clients on portfolio performance and optimization strategies
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting or a related quantitative field
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential preferred
- 5+ years experience in a financial advisor or investment analyst role
- In-depth knowledge of accounting, tax, insurance, and investment principles
- Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- High attention to detail and organizational skills
This financial specialist job description provides a template for key duties, responsibilities, required credentials and qualifications for the role at a financial services firm. It covers the basic information needed while allowing customization for specific company needs.
What Does a Financial Specialist Do?
A financial specialist provides financial advice and guidance to individuals and organizations to help them make sound investment decisions. They analyze clients’ financial situations and risk profiles to develop customized financial plans and investment strategies tailored to their needs and goals.
What are the Day-to-Day Duties of a Financial Specialist?
- Meeting with potential clients to gather information on their financial standing, objectives, risk appetite and timeframe
- Conducting research and due diligence to evaluate investment options
- Using data and models to provide personalized recommendations on investments
- Implementing and monitoring approved financial plans and investment portfolios
- Rebalancing portfolios over time to maintain optimal asset allocation
- Preparing client reviews and updating plans based on life changes and market shifts
What Skills and Qualities Do Excellent Financial Specialists Have?
Top financial specialists have sharp analytical abilities, excellent communication skills, high ethical standards and the capacity to explain complex concepts clearly. Strong math, critical thinking and interpersonal skills are all valuable. Relevant education, certifications and financial experience are required.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Financial Specialist?
Most financial specialist positions require a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics or business as well as a certified financial planner (CFP), chartered financial analyst (CFA) or similar designation. 1-3 years of work experience in a related analyst or advisory role is also typical.
What is the Average Salary for a Financial Specialist?
Financial specialists earn a median annual salary of approximately $89,000 per year, with those working for financial firms and in major metro areas earning over $100,000. Compensation is usually commission-based for those in client-facing roles. Bonuses are also common.