Diane Rooney
Diane Rooney
Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
4 year career break
Return to Work: In September 2011, Diane accepted a new career position in the Professional Management Development program with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, ultimately becoming a Financial Advisor in January, 2012. While she had been advising corporations for over 20 years, Diane always had an interest in assisting individuals and families plan for their financial futures. Diane obtained her Certified Financial Planning Practitioner designation (CFP) on her own but needed securities licenses and an environment where she could build an objective, thriving practice.
Key Job Search Factor: “I networked extensively with professionals in the industry, primarily as a fact finding mission. There are many business models, and I was on a search to find the right fit. This approach was less intimidating both for me, and the individuals I met along the way. I ultimately decided on the business model then sought out individuals in the particular companies. Merrill Lynch was a sponsor at the iRelaunch conference in Boston. While I knew an advisor there, I hadn’t previously considered the company. A Merrill Lynch recruiter followed up after the conference.”
Connection with iRelaunch: “I was recommended to iRelaunch by a woman I met in my networking travels, and I attended the iRelaunch Return to Work Conference in Boston in May 2011. While I was searching for the next 'thing,' I wasn’t putting my heart and soul into the search. The conference was full of dynamic intelligent women and definitely gave me the boost I needed. The program made me rediscover my self- confidence. I knew it was there, just hiding deep inside!”
Narrative: Diane was a Senior Vice President at some of the country’s financial institutions and started up and subsequently sold a commercial finance company. She left the industry at the height of the market in 2007 to take care of her mother with Alzheimers Disease. “I am thrilled to be back to work and found the transition far easier than I expected. Merrill Lynch has vast, world class resources and I hope to remain here for many years.”
Background: Financial Services, Accounting Industry
Pre-Break: Commercial Lender with specialty finance company
Relaunch Connection: iRelaunch Conference Attendee
Key Job Search Factor: Networking