To lead and execute the regional retirement business strategy to drive client retention and servicing, sustainable growth, profitability and operational excellence. The role is responsible for the region's financial performance, including revenue growth, margin enhancement and effective P&L management, while ensuring exceptional client outcomes, strong governance and regulatory compliance. The incumbent will collaborate closely with other Alexforbes business units, such as Health, Investments, Ops and Admin, Retail, etc., to deliver integrated client solutions and maximise commercial opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy, Direction and Delivery
- Drive sustainable growth in revenue, profitability and market share within the retirement business.
- Analyse client portfolios, market opportunities and industry trends to inform strategic decision-making.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance client experience, operational effectiveness and commercial outcomes.
- Develop and strengthen the regional retirement value proposition.
- Analyse client portfolios, market opportunities and industry trends to support informed decision-making.
- Ensure effective administration, governance and oversight of retirement fund clients and related operations.
- Develop and execute the regional retirement business strategy aligned to the broader Corporate and Group strategy.
People Strategy and Leadership
- Build, lead and develop a high-performing regional team.
- Foster a performance-driven and client-centric culture.
- Provide coaching, mentoring and leadership to managers and employees.
- Build sound and fit-for-purpose succession planning and talent pipeline capability, in partnership with Human Capital.
- Promote professional accreditation and continuous development across the region.
- Create an environment that encourages accountability, collaboration and innovation.
Key Client Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with Boards of Trustees, Principal Officers, employers and key decision-makers.
- Position Alexforbes as a trusted advisor through proactive engagement and innovative retirement solutions.
- Leverage the broader Alexforbes offering to deliver holistic client solutions and increase share of wallet.
- Collaborate with business units to develop integrated client solutions.
- Drive retention, profitability and growth across strategic client portfolios.
- Identify and pursue opportunities to expand client relationships and increase share of wallet.
Business Development and Growth
- Drive the achievement of regional business growth and profitability targets.
- Identify and convert new retirement business opportunities within the market.
- Lead the implementation of client retention and acquisition strategies.
- Develop and communicate compelling retirement-focused value propositions and market solutions.
- Build strategic partnerships that enhance market visibility and support growth objectives.
- Maintain accountability for the regional sales pipeline and business development activities.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Drive cross-selling opportunities through collaboration with Health, Investments, Retail, etc.
- Promote collaboration across business units to maximise revenue opportunities and strengthen client relationships.
- Ensure alignment of client strategies and service delivery across the broader Alexforbes ecosystem.
Governance, Risk and Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all applicable legislation, regulatory requirements and internal policies.
- Maintain strong governance frameworks and risk management practices across the region.
- Promote sound corporate governance principles within all client and business activities.
- Identify, assess and mitigate operational, regulatory and business risks.
- Ensure adherence to pension fund legislation, fiduciary requirements and industry best practice.
Performance Management
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators aligned to business objectives.
- Drive accountability for delivery against agreed targets and strategic priorities.
- Implement effective reporting and performance review mechanisms.
- Monitor regional performance and implement corrective actions where necessary.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Budget and P&L Management
- Assume full accountability for regional profit and loss performance.
- Develop and execute financial strategies to achieve revenue, profitability and growth objectives.
- Drive sustainable improvement in operating margins and overall business performance.
- Manage annual budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes.
- Monitor revenue, expenses, profitability and productivity metrics.
- Ensure disciplined cost management and efficient allocation of resources.
- Identify opportunities to improve commercial performance and maximise client portfolio profitability.
Treating Customers Fairly (TCF)
- Ensure all responsibilities are executed in a manner that supports TCF principles and outcomes.
- Proactively identify and address customer-related risks and concerns.
- Take ownership for issues that could negatively impact clients and implement corrective actions.
- Promote a client-centric culture focused on fairness, transparency and service excellence.
Qualifications & Experience
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in commerce, Finance, Business Management, Economics, Law, Employee Benefits or any related field.
- FAIS Key Individual accreditation.
- Relevant postgraduate qualification will be advantageous.
Experience
- 10+ years' experience within the retirement fund and employee benefits industry.
- Minimum 5 years' experience managing strategic client relationships and complex client portfolios.
- Minimum 5 years' senior leadership experience.
- Proven track record in business growth, client retention and market expansion.
- Strong commercial and financial management experience with direct P&L accountability.
- Experience in strategic engagements with Boards of Trustees, Principal Officers and executive stakeholders.
- Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic business initiatives.
Why Join Alexander Forbes?
At Alexforbes, we don't just offer jobs - we build careers. Here's what makes us stand out:
Growth & Development
- Bursary and Leadership Development Programmes
- E-Learning Forums and continuous learning opportunities
- Financial Planning Support tailored for staff
Rewarding Performance
- Total Rewards Package: Competitive incentives
- Power Of One recognition
- Retirement Fund Contributions starting at 13% of CTC
- Medical & Gap Cover
Work-Life Balance
- Wellness programmes
- My Savings Account
Join a company that values its people, invests in their growth, and rewards excellence.