Financial Planning Assistant (Somerset West)

PartnerUp (Pty) Ltd; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in financial services seeks a Partner Assistant to support Financial Planning Partners in client services and operations. The role involves managing administrative tasks, ensuring compliance, and enhancing client relationships. Ideal candidates will have relevant experience in the financial sector and a strong customer-focused approach.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years in the financial services industry.
• Understanding of FAIS and FICA legislation.
• Experience with XPlan.

Responsibilities

• Manage administrative processes and client services.
• Conduct FICA and AML checks during onboarding.
• Support Financial Planning Partner and clients.

Skills

Communication

Customer-centric approach

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Time management

Education

Relevant tertiary education or courses

Tools

XPlan

Job description

The Partner Assistant supports the Financial Planning Partner(s) in providing the required levels of client services to our clients. The Assistant is part of a regional team and is encouraged to collaborate with other Assistants in their office as well as with team members in the Region. The Assistant takes responsibility for overseeing the administrative, operations, and client services support to the Financial Planning Partner and acts as the liaison between the practice and the regional or head office.

Categories :

• Client Services

- Implement the client services experience as defined by the Head of Operations.

- Manage administrative processes, transactions, queries, and reporting in the Financial Planning practice(s).

- Liaise with product providers (PPs) and follow complaint resolution processes.

- Serve as the point of contact for clients, ensuring efficient delivery of requirements.

- Adhere to the principles of Treating Customer Fairly.

Operations :

- Gather client information and prepare documentation for engagement.

- Conduct FICA and AML checks during onboarding.

- Check transition documentation for completeness and accuracy.

- Handle administration related to client transfers and new business transactions.

- Submit intermediary appointment notes and monitor their submission for successful client transfer and fee collection.

- Ensure completeness and accuracy of new business documentation.

- Submit new business applications with supporting documents.

- Monitor underwriting and acceptance processes.

- Arrange medicals and follow up on outstanding requirements.

- Provide ongoing support to the Financial Planning Partner and clients.

- Manage commission statements and suspense accounts, escalating issues as needed.

Operational support for Portfolio Managers and CRMs :

- Ensure complete pre-population of mandates and applications in PCS.

- Initiate and maintain instructions via XPlan tasks.

IT & Systems :

- Prepare client portfolios and ensure data accuracy in XPlan.

- Capture client demographic and financial data.

- Integrate data between XPlan and other systems.

- Upload documentation and maintain records compliant with regulations.

- Distribute communications and prepare for client reviews.

- Use XPlan notes and tasks for organization.

NAV & KPIs :

- Understand NAV data to support the practice.

- Track and monitor KPIs, seeking assistance as needed.

- Liaise with the Financial Planning Partner on practice data.

Marketing Support :

- Assist with organizing client events and strengthen client relationships.

Office Management :

- Support office operations, including reception and facilities.

- Manage procurement of office supplies and marketing materials.

Knowledge :

• Understanding of FAIS and FICA legislation
• Experience with XPlan
• Strong communication skills
• Customer-centric and relationship-oriented approach
• Methodical, accurate, and detail-oriented
• Initiative and organizational skills
• Collaborative and critical thinking skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Teamwork and professional conduct
• Time management and multitasking skills

Qualifications and Experience :

• 2-3 years in the financial services industry
• Relevant tertiary education or courses

Attributes :

• Client-focused, ownership, and commitment to effectiveness in clients’ lives