Graduate Programme – Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) Proper Financial Services C.C. in partnership with Momentum Distribution Services (MDS)

Are you a motivated graduate ready to launch your career in financial services? Momentum Distribution Services (MDS) invites you to join our IFA Graduate Programme, a structured three-year journey designed to build your professional competence, ethical awareness, and client-focused skills while contributing to meaningful community initiatives.

This programme offers accredited training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in the dynamic world of financial advice, preparing you to become a trusted adviser of the future.

Why Join The Graduate Programme?

• Structured career path from administrative support to financial adviser.
• Accredited training and mentorship from industry experts.
• Exposure to both business operations and community initiatives.
• Opportunity to contribute to transforming the financial advice landscape by supporting inclusivity and diversity.
• Competitive stipends and salaries with co-funded progression.

Disclaimer As an applicant, please verify the legitimacy of this job advert on our company career page.

Role Purpose

Year 1 – Foundation Phase (Administrative Assistant)

Stipend: R6 500 per month

Focus: Technical proficiency, compliance, and client support

• Support IFAs with client onboarding, administration, and compliance documentation.
• Participate in structured learning modules covering technical, business, and client training.
• Gain exposure to financial needs analysis, compliance (FAIS, POPIA), and client communication.
• Demonstrates high-quality processing and resilience in follow-ups, ensuring cases are resolved promptly within stringent performance standards..
• Build strong relationships with clients, mentors, and stakeholders.
• Develop skills in practice management, financial literacy, marketing, and digital tools.
• Receive continuous mentorship and coaching.

Year 2 – Paraplanner Role (Transition Phase)

Salary: R14 000 per month

Focus: Holistic financial planning and advanced technical skills

• Transition into the paraplanner role, supporting advisers with financial planning.
• Begin preparation for Regulatory Examination (RE5).
• Learn to develop holistic financial plans, identify cross-sell and upsell opportunities, and manage client reviews.
• Apply knowledge of financial products, quoting processes, and client segmentation.
• Continue mentorship and structured training through the New Adviser Academy.
• Strengthen analytical, reporting, and client relationship skills.

Year 3 – Junior Financial Adviser (Under Supervision)

Salary: R18 000 per month

Focus: Fit & Proper Competency and adviser readiness

• Transition into a junior financial adviser role, working under supervision.
• Complete Fit & Proper Competency requirements, including:
• Class of Business training
• Product-specific accreditation
• RE5 qualification
• Gain practical exposure to client-facing engagements, advice delivery, and ethical practice.
• Participate in quarterly mock client-facing assessments to refine advisory skills.
• Build confidence in delivering inclusive financial solutions aligned with Momentum’s values.
• Prepare for long-term career progression, including potential RE1 exams and CFP designation.

Requirements

Candidate Qualification and Minimum Requirements

• Minimum of a BCom degree in Financial Planning, Estate Planning, Legal Business Management, Marketing, Communications or Finance .
• Strong digital capabilities and willingness to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• No prior industry experience required – this programme is designed for graduates eager to learn and grow.
• Must reside in the region of placement and surrounding areas.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Support IFAs with client onboarding, administration, and compliance documentation.
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and data analysis to inform business decisions.
• Ensure compliance with FAIS, POPIA, and other regulatory requirements.
• Participate in structured learning modules, assessments, and feedback sessions to build professional competence.
• Deliver professional, client-centered support to IFAs and their clients.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with clients, community partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to service delivery that meets agreed standards and expectations.
• Recommend enhancements to client service and promote fair treatment of clients.
• Actively participate in CSI initiatives that strengthen community trust and brand reputation.
• Develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with peers, mentors, and stakeholders.
• Continuously expand knowledge of financial services, industry trends, and ethical practice.
• Share innovative ideas and contribute to a culture of learning and improvement.
• Take ownership of personal career development through mentorship, CPD activities, and reflective practice.
• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and reduce resource wastage.
• Demonstrate accountability in managing company resources entrusted during the programme.
• Provide input into risk identification and mitigation processes, ensuring compliance and ethical standards.

Competencies

• Deciding and Initiating Action: Demonstrates initiative, confidence, and accountability in both business and CSI projects.
• Systems Thinking: Recognises how tasks, client interactions, and CSI activities align with broader organisational goals and impact Momentum’s reputation.
• Planning and Organising: Sets clear objectives, manages time effectively, adapts to change, and organises resources to meet deadlines.
• Delivering Results and Meeting Client Expectations: Maintains high standards of accuracy and professionalism, consistently achieving programme and CSI outcomes.
• Following Instructions and Procedures: Adheres to organisational policies, compliance requirements, and CSI guidelines with reliability and respect for authority.
• Coping with Pressures and Setbacks: Remains productive and composed under pressure, balancing demands and learning constructively from feedback.
• Entrepreneurial and Commercial Thinking: Demonstrates awareness of industry trends and community needs, identifies opportunities to add value, and contributes to sustainable business practices.