The Para-Planner is primarily responsible for performing the tasks that comprise the administrative and after sales service offering to Clients. The main focus of the role is to provide quality service. The Para-Planner is not required to be accredited with the service products handled, though a moderate level of technical knowledge is needed to perform the role. The Para-Planner needs excellent secretarial and administrative skills.

Key Accountabilities:

New business implementation

Implementation of all new business, including all fund manager and life office follow-ups. This includes completing and submitting application / prospectus forms where necessary, contacting suppliers and ensuring business completes in a timely fashion.
Client services

Ensure the accurate production of all Client portfolio review documentation and reports.
Ensure the accurate production of all Client risk management review documentation and reports.
Regularly update and maintain Client, insurance and investment information in the Client management system.
Implementation of all switches or redemptions, including all fund manager follow-ups. This includes completing forms where necessary. You will not be required to complete technical aspects relating to funds and percentage allocations.
Implementation of all changes to insurance benefits or coverage, including all life company and medical/financial follow-ups.
Co-ordination of all claims correspondence and life office follow-up of claims progress.
Marketing plan implementation

Preparation and co-ordination of marketing events, as outlined in the marketing plan.
Ensure all PROSPECT and prospect details are input on the Client management system and that these details are maintained as per the sales process.
Administration

Control and order printed or electronic material, fact sheets, applications and forms etc required in the implementation process.
Ensure all Client files and electronic records are maintained in-line with procedures outlined in the policies and procedures manual.
Develop and Maintain Relationships (applicable to most senior para-planning position)

Develop and maintain relationships with key personnel within strategic alliance partner.
Develop and maintain relationships with key suppliers, particularly fund managers and life companies
New client take-on

Attend or contribute towards customer meetings as requested by the adviser. (applicable to most senior para-planning position)
Implementation of new business, including all fund manager and life office follow-ups. This includes completing and submitting application / prospectus forms where necessary, contacting suppliers and ensuring business completes in a timely fashion.
Sales

Handle initial PROSPECT enquiries to limit of authority and book appointments in Adviser’s diary as appropriate.
Conduct any prospect follow-up phone calls to obtain further information.
Print, and bind financial plans and risk management plans as needed.


Performance assessment

Contribute towards setting individual objectives and KPIs in conjunction with Advisers and Business Manager, and based on achieving business objectives
Provide accurate reports on individual performance and activities as requested.
Compliance

Comply with company procedures to support compliance with the FAIS and FICA acts and other relevant legislation.


Technical Competencies Essential

Expertise in production of documents, spreadsheets and presentations
Effective Client service and relationship skills including the ability to modify approach to meet the needs of the Client
Knowledge of regulatory requirements
Event co-ordination skills, including ability to tailor event to the audience for maximum effectiveness.
Understanding of the products and services offered by the business.
Ability to network effectively with staff of suppliers and COIs and maintain effective working relationship
Ability to implement a project and action plans and juggle workload commitments.
Excellent overall communication abilities including interpersonal effectiveness and ability to modify approach to suit various audiences.
Strong time management and follow–up ethic