Manager, Branch

This opportunity at Liberty, a prominent financial services group, calls for a seasoned Branch Manager in Potchefstroom. The successful candidate will be instrumental in overseeing all facets of branch operations, driving profitability, and cultivating a high-performing, client-centric culture. This leadership role is pivotal in expanding the business footprint through strategic recruitment and development of a diverse team of financial advisers, all while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory standards.

About the role

As a Branch Manager, you will be in charge of ensuring the Potchefstroom branch achieves sustainable financial results. This involves meticulous management of all resources, including people, processes, and systems. A key focus will be on fostering an environment where financial advisers can thrive, aligning their performance with the organisation's overarching objectives. This leadership position demands a proactive approach to business growth and an unwavering commitment to ethical practices and regulatory compliance, particularly with FSCA requirements and Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) principles.

Your responsibilities will encompass a broad spectrum of managerial and strategic tasks:

• **Operational Leadership:** Direct and optimise daily branch operations, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• **Strategic Growth:** Develop and implement strategies to expand the business through effective recruitment, retention, and ongoing development of financial advisers. This includes managing both employed and independent contractor advisers.
• **Performance Management:** Set clear performance targets, monitor progress, and provide constructive feedback and coaching to the adviser team, fostering a culture of high achievement.
• **Financial Acumen:** Manage the branch's operational budget, analyse financial data, and identify opportunities for revenue growth and cost optimisation to meet and exceed profitability targets.
• **Compliance and Risk:** Ensure all branch activities and adviser practices strictly comply with relevant financial services regulations (e.g., FAIS, TCF) and internal risk management policies.
• **Client Centricity:** Champion a client-focused approach throughout the branch, ensuring excellent service and ethical conduct in all client interactions.
• **Team Development:** Empower and develop team members, nurturing their expertise and supporting their professional growth within the organisation.

What they're looking for

Liberty is seeking a candidate with a strong background in financial services and a proven track record in leadership. The ideal candidate will possess:

• **Education:** A First Degree in Business Commerce, Finance and Accounting, or Marketing is required.
• **Certifications:** Possession of a FAIS Representative licence is essential.
• **Experience:**
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience within the insurance, financial services, or asset management sectors.
• At least 3-5 years specifically in a management role, overseeing teams or significant operational areas.
• 1-2 years of experience in sales and distribution, with a strong understanding of financial adviser recruitment, retention, and development.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage diverse teams, including independent contractors.
• **Skills and Knowledge:**
• Comprehensive understanding of regulatory compliance, risk management, and client service principles (e.g., TCF) within the financial services industry.
• Proven capability in managing operational budgets and consistently achieving financial targets.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to challenge ideas constructively, empower individuals, and make decisive actions.

This managerial role within the financial services sector typically offers a competitive salary in South Africa, often ranging from ZAR 500,000 to ZAR 900,000 per annum, depending on experience, performance incentives, and the size of the branch. Growth paths often lead to regional management positions or specialisation in areas like strategic distribution or adviser development within larger financial institutions.

Type of Qualification: First Degree
Field of Study: Business Commerce, Finance and Accounting, Marketing
Licenses & Certifications: FAIS Representative

Experience Required
Sales
Sales & Distribution
1-2 years
Strong understanding of regulatory compliance, risk management, and client service principles (e.g., TCF) within the financial services industry. Proven experience in managing operational budgets and achieving financial targets.

5-7 years
7-10 years of progressive experience within the insurance, financial services, or asset management sectors. This includes at least 3-5 years at a management level, overseeing teams or significant operational areas. Proven track record in sales and distribution management, with demonstrated experience in financial adviser recruitment, retention, and development. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage diverse teams, including independent contractors.