Location: Southampton
Hybrid working available, 2-3 days in office
Job Summary:
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Academy Manager to lead and manage our aspiring adviser program for Trainee Financial Planners. The Academy Manager will play a pivotal role in developing and executing structured learning pathways, ensuring trainees gain the knowledge, skills, and qualifications necessary to become successful financial planners. This role requires an individual with strong leadership skills, excellent financial planning knowledge, and a passion for nurturing talent.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Program Development & Management
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve a structured training program for trainee financial planners.
- Ensure the curriculum aligns with industry regulations, best practices, and company standards.
- Design training modules that cover both technical financial planning competencies (e.g., investments, retirement planning, tax strategies) and soft skills (e.g., client relationship management, communication).
- Regularly assess training needs and update content to reflect changes in financial legislation, technology, and market trends.
2. Trainee Management & Mentorship
- Oversee the onboarding and ongoing development of all trainees within the program.
- Serve as a mentor and coach, providing continuous feedback, guidance, and support to help trainees meet key milestones.
- Monitor individual progress and performance, addressing any knowledge or skill gaps through tailored interventions.
- Foster a supportive and motivating environment that encourages personal and professional growth.
3. Stakeholder Collaboration
- Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., Compliance, HR, Financial Planning teams) to ensure the program reflects company goals and operational needs.
- Engage with senior leadership and external bodies (such as regulatory institutions) to align the academy's goals with strategic priorities and accreditation requirements.
- Work with qualified financial planners and external trainers to deliver specialised sessions or workshops as part of the training.
4. Compliance & Qualification Management
- Ensure that trainees meet the necessary professional standards and obtain relevant certifications (such as the Chartered Financial Planner or Certified Financial Planner certifications).
- Track and document all compliance training, ensuring adherence to industry regulatory standards.
- Liaise with external qualification providers to facilitate exam preparation and ensure trainees are on track for certification.
5. Performance & Reporting
- Monitor, evaluate, and report on the effectiveness of the academy's training program, using metrics such as exam pass rates, client satisfaction, and retention.
- Conduct regular reviews of trainee progress and development plans, presenting findings to senior management.
- Implement improvements to ensure the continued success and reputation of the academy.
6. Recruitment & Expansion
- Participate in the recruitment and selection of new trainee financial planners.
- Expand the academy as needed, helping to scale the program to accommodate growing demand for financial planners within the company.
Key Qualifications & Skills:
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, or a related field (preferred).
- Level 4 Diploma (DipPFS or equivalent preferred).
Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in financial planning, wealth management, or financial services.
- Proven experience in training, mentoring, or managing financial planners or similar professionals.
- Strong understanding of financial regulations, compliance, and industry qualifications.
Skills & Competencies
- Excellent leadership and team management skills.
- Strong communication and presentation abilities.
- High attention to detail, particularly regarding compliance and regulatory standards.
- Ability to design and implement structured training programs.
- Proficiency in using Learning Management Systems (LMS) or other training tools.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Personal Attributes:
- Passion for developing and mentoring talent.
- A self-starter with the ability to work independently and within a team.
- A forward thinker with the ability to innovate training solutions.
- Strong ethical standards and integrity in managing confidential information.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to shape the future generation of financial planners.
- Professional development and career growth opportunities.
- A collaborative and dynamic work environment.