Current Opportunities at M&G Investments Southern Africa

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Business Enablement Manager within the M&G Business Enablement Team. The successful applicant will primarily be responsible for leading the team in partnering with the Front Office and Distribution departments, through understanding their operational business problems, finding solutions, and facilitating the change delivery process on their behalf.  This includes engagement with external service providers e.g. Transfer Agency administrators, Bloomberg, and Charles River, and the internal Change Delivery function. This role requires a resourceful and analytical person who can work with multiple teams in finding appropriate solutions for the M&G business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Business Enablement team.
• Engagement department heads to determine their intended operating model, and gaps that require remediation.
• Manage the prioritisation and road map of the relevant changes.
• Be a participating member of various change forums e.g. Change Request Forum, Product Owner Forum etc., as well as the relevant project steercoms.
• Provide input into the budgeting process for Change Delivery.
• High Level business analysis to clearly express and document stakeholder needs.
• Vendor engagements as it relates to changes in the service offering to Front Office and Distribution departments.
• Facilitate the implementation of changes into the BAU operational functions e.g. new instruments, portfolio management data, client management dashboards, retail client statement changes.
• Liaise and build relationship with the London and/or other PLC offshore offices when implementing solutions for the Front Office and Distribution departments.

Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• An appropriate tertiary qualification. Bachelor’s degree or higher.
• At least 3 years’ experience managing operational or change delivery teams.
• At least 8 years relevant working experience in financial services (asset management or administration providers to the asset management function will be advantageous).
• Understanding of CISCA and local Unit Trust environment.
• Business analysis experience.
• Project management experience.
• Experience preparing management information presentations .
• MS Office skillset, in particular Excel, Word and PowerPoint.

Competencies & Personal Attributes

• Leadership and Team Management
• Ability to lead and motivate a diverse team of change specialists.
• Experience in managing operational or change delivery teams to drive results.
• Strong interpersonal skills to foster collaboration across teams.
• Business Analysis and Problem-Solving
• Proficient in conducting high-level business analysis to identify stakeholder needs.
• Strong analytical skills to assess operational business problems and propose viable solutions.
• Capability to document and communicate complex ideas clearly.
• Change Management
• Expertise in facilitating the change delivery process, ensuring smooth transitions to new operational models.
• Experience in prioritizing changes and developing strategic roadmaps.
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with department heads and external service providers.
• Proficiency in engaging with various forums and steering committees to represent stakeholder interests.
• Project Management
• Solid project management skills, including planning, execution, and monitoring of change initiatives.
• Experience in budget preparation and resource allocation related to change delivery.
• Financial Services Knowledge
• Understanding of the asset management industry, including relevant regulations (e.g., CISCA).
• Familiarity with operational processes related to the Front Office and Distribution departments.
• Technical Proficiency
• Advanced skills in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for data analysis and presentation preparation.
• Ability to engage with technical service providers like Bloomberg and Charles River.
• Action Orientation and Time Management
• Demonstrated ability to be action-oriented and focused on delivering results.
• Self-starter with strong time management skills to balance multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Communication Skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for presenting information to stakeholders.
• Ability to create clear and concise management information presentations.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Client Director within the M&G Institutional Business Team. As a Client Director at M&G, you will primarily focus on developing and managing existing strategic relationships and partnerships with the institutional market, particularly but not limited to investment consultants, multi-mangers, medical aids, corporates, umbrella funds as well as insurers.
• It encompasses a broad range of functions, including developing existing business relationships, exploring new business opportunities and initiatives for potential clients. This also includes managing client visits, monthly and quarterly client reporting, undertaking client presentations, participating in industry events, responding to ad hoc client queries and working closely with the Institutional Team to execute the business strategy.
• This pivotal role will support the businesses strategic growth objective by credibly representing the business and our various investment capabilities both locally and globally. The ideal candidate will need to demonstrate a deep understanding of the South African institutional market.
• Reporting directly to the Head of Institutional, the ideal candidate will be a proactive self-starter with a client-centric approach, and foster collaboration across distribution segments both within South Africa and globally.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with existing institutional clients by having a strong client centric approach to service delivery and developing collaborative value adding partnerships with clients.
• Work and collaborate across the various internal business units to effectively deliver superior client solutions for a dedicated panel of clients as well as potential clients.
• Develop and maintain on an on-going basis a client specific strategic account plan for each client, thereby maintaining excellence in understanding client portfolios, industry segments, and supporting regulations.
• Deliver high quality investment presentations to existing and potential clients.
• Participate in public forums, host/present webinars, fund conferences and investor road shows to support investment and distribution teams.
• Ensure that all client queries are efficiently and timeously resolved because of having built good internal stakeholder relationships.
• Provide oversight and input into service level agreements, mandates, policy documents and fee agreements.
• Coordinate client due-diligence visits and report-backs, including agenda development and appropriate presenters required.
• Take strategic ownership with respect to driving fee negotiations with clients and internal stakeholders.
• Identify clients that are at risk and develop the appropriate strategy for engagement with those clients.
• Build, develop and maintain new relationships across the different market segments with respect to potential clients and consultants to grow the institutional business. Develop a strategy that is aligned with M&G Investments' business objectives and leverage global resources where required appropriately.
• Provide regular market intelligence internally that contributes to thought leadership.
• Analyse competitor products with respect to flows, performance, fees etc. in order to strategically retain and grow assets under management.
• Analyse global institutional industry specific trends and discuss within the team and wider distribution business.
• Contribute towards/and or drive strategic and innovative marketing initiatives to position institutional thought leadership.
• Maintain accountability of client onboarding processes and collaborate on institutional projects.
• Manage the client relationship system with high data integrity.
• Mentor staff and foster a high-quality learning environment by demonstrating thought leadership within the team to ensure knowledge sharing and development.
• Facilitate and provide oversight on the completion and review of due diligence questionnaires for existing and potential clients.
• Ensure compliance with distribution processes and practices and internal/external standards.
• Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience
• Post graduate degree in finance or related field (CFA, MBA, or Master's (finance related) preferred) with a solid understanding of investment markets.
• Minimum 7-10 years of relevant senior client-facing experience in asset management or investment consulting, with a proven track record in client-facing wholesale/institutional distribution (discretionary fund managers, multi-mangers, investment consultants, umbrella funds, insurers, etc.).
• Strong commercial acumen and business insight, solid understanding of investment products and the Institutional landscape.

Competencies & Personal Attributes
Strong Financial Acumen:

• You should understand financial markets, investment products, and strategies.
• You should be able to provide knowledgeable insights to clients and navigate complex financial discussions.
• Client-Centric Approach:
• You should have exceptional listening skills to understand the client's goals, risk tolerance, and investment preferences.
• You should also be able to tailor investment solutions to meet each client's specific needs.
• Relationship Building:
• This involves establishing trust, demonstrating credibility, and providing excellent customer service.
• You should be skilled at cultivating long-term partnerships and maintaining regular client communication.
• Communication and Presentation Skills:
• Clear and effective communication is critical for a client
• You should be able to explain complex investment concepts simply and understandably.
• Strong presentation skills are also crucial for client meetings and pitching investment strategies.
• Business Development:
• You should be skilled in identifying and pursuing new business opportunities.
• You should be able to network, generate leads, and convert prospects into AUM.
• This involves leveraging your industry knowledge, maintaining a solid professional network, and actively seeking new business opportunities.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making:
• The investment management industry can present various challenges and uncertainties.
• You should be adept at analysing situations, identifying solutions, and making informed decisions.
• You should be able to anticipate potential issues and proactively address them.
• Integrity and Ethical Conduct:
• Trust is fundamental in the investment management industry.
• Integrity and ethical conduct are crucial for building long-term relationships and maintaining a reputable professional image.
• You should adhere to high ethical standards, act in clients' best interests, and maintain confidentiality.
• Adaptability and Continuous Learning:
• The investment management industry is dynamic and constantly evolving.
• You should be adaptable to changing market conditions, new regulations, and emerging investment trends.
• You should thirst for knowledge, stay updated on industry developments, and continuously enhance your skills.
• Teamwork and Collaboration:
• Collaboration is critical in investment management, especially with portfolio managers, research analysts, and other professionals.
• You should be able to collaborate effectively with internal teams, fostering a cohesive and supportive working environments.
• Results-Driven Mindset:
• You should focus on achieving results.
• You should be driven to meet and exceed client expectations, achieve sales targets, and contribute to the firm's overall success.
• Being goal-oriented and having a performance-driven mindset are crucial attributes
• You should be willing to travel extensively and function effectively when working remotely.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Client Associate Manager within the M&G Client Associate Team. As a Client Associate Manager at M&G, you will play a pivotal role in managing and supporting a team to assist client-facing colleagues. The ideal candidate will foster collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement within the team. Responsibilities include structuring efficient workflows, aligning internal processes across various departments, and enhancing institutional distribution documents.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and support a team of Client Associates to assist client-facing colleagues, manage client relationships, and ensure high performance and collaboration.
• Develop a strategy and structure for an agile centralized workflow, enabling efficient communication and task management with iterative reviews.
• Mentor team members, providing development opportunities and relevant exposure to various client segments.
• Responsible for a panel of clients - handle client requests, including regular (monthly, quarterly) and ad-hoc reporting.
• Organize client due-diligence visits and report-backs, including agenda development and securing presenters.
• Work closely with the investment team in positioning and collating feedback for client requests.
• Synthesize data and find ways to automate workstreams.
• Facilitate the completion and review of due diligence questionnaires for existing and potential clients.
• Review fee invoicing and supporting calculations with finance.
• Oversee client onboarding processes, including mandate drafting, amendments with stakeholders, and KYC and screening requests.
• Collaborate with teams to enhance institutional distribution capability documents and presentations.
• Ensure timely completion and alignment of internal processes across Legal, Investment, Operations, Compliance, and Transitions teams.
• Maintain processes to ensure CRM system functionality and data integrity.
• Manage the communication strategy for clients, including maintaining target communication lists.
• Prepare and maintain monthly and quarterly reports on client flows, AUM, and fees.
• Provide key reporting dashboards and intelligence to the client-facing team.
• Oversee multiple projects within the institutional client value chain and represent the institutional client segment within relevant operational streams as required.

Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Postgraduate degree in finance or related field with an understanding of investment markets.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in asset management with an understanding of the institutional market segment and stakeholders.
• Previous and/or current management experience in a similar role.
• Passion for project management and seeking effectiveness in client excellence.
• Solid understanding of investment products and the institutional landscape.
• Competencies & Personal Attributes
• Tenacity and strong planning, co-ordinating skills.
• Self-motivation and ability to maintain high levels of productivity.
• Experience in managing and leading a team.
• Ability to mentor team members and an understanding and focus on development.
• Clear and confident communication skills at all levels and strong analytical abilities.
• An ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues and clients.
• Strong analytical ability and productivity.
• Commitment to continuous learning and innovative thinking.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A Due Diligence Questionnaire (DDQ) and Request For Proposal (RFP) Specialist vacancy has arisen at M&G Investments. The successful candidate will form part of a team of highly skilled investment professionals in developing and maintaining exceptional communications through DDQs, RFPs and report backs for our clients and potential clients. The role requires working closely with the Investment and Client Service teams and plays an integral part in both the acquisition and retention of client mandates. The ability to create a narrative through the use of market, fund performance data and business strategy is key. We’re looking for someone not only capable, but passionate about this important function to join our team.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with senior staff members across the business in preparing high quality responses to DDQs and RFP’s. This includes, but is not limited to, general information about the business, portfolio management and process, ESG, operations, risk and compliance and B-BBEEE and transformation.
• Complete all institutional and corporate DDQs and RFPs for clients and potential clients with an extremely high level of accuracy, time management, and attention to detail; collaborating with internal and external teams as needed.
• Create and maintain standard DDQ documents for M&G capabilities across local and global.
• Maintain relationships and provide ongoing updated information to all online databases on which M&G products are listed such as but not limited to EVestments, Wilshire, Mercer etc.
• Liaise and maintain internal relationships with various departments to source all relevant information.
• Assist ICMs with any ad hoc queries/ requests relating to information usually contained in DDQs/ RFPs.
• Point of contact to internal clients / responsible for dealing with client queries / requests relating to DDQs and RFPs
• Using M&G’s DDQ/ RFP software, track and manage the progress of answers to successfully complete the documents within the timeline.
• Assist with the maintenance of internal databases like Sugar CRM and rocketdocs.
• Assist the Institutional team with support on client servicing.

Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• An appropriate tertiary education (preferably commercial qualification) with a good understanding of economics, investment markets and investment products.
• At least 5 years’ experience in asset management / financial services industry.
• Experience in the production of written client communication material.
• A passion for completing these long documents to the highest quality.
• MS Office, in particular PowerPoint, Excel and Word.
• DDQ/ RFP specialist software like RocketDocs preferrable.

Competencies & Personal Attributes

• Excellent written communication skills.
• Attention to detail with high levels of accuracy.
• Ability to compile answers (input) from various sources into succinct answers to questions.
• Client-centric disposition and impeccable service standards.
• Strong planning and coordinating skills with good time management.
• Ability to maintain high levels of productivity.
• Ability to work to deadlines and occasionally outside regular work hours.
• Tolerance for stress.
• Confident, assertive, good verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated with high levels of initiative.
• A team player who is able to build strong working relationships with colleagues.
• Numerical skills.
• A willingness to continuously learn.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for an Institutional Client Associate at M&G Investments. This role involves supporting client-facing colleagues through effectively servicing and growing the institutional client base. It encompasses a broad range of functions, including developing existing business relationships, managing client visits, monthly and quarterly client reporting, event and bulk communications target lists, responding to ad hoc client queries and working closely with the Institutional team to execute the business strategy The successful candidate will foster collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement within the team and will report to the Client Associate Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide general support to client-facing team members in managing and servicing clients, including maintaining relationships across an allocated panel of clients.
• Manage and resolve client and/or consultant queries timeously and efficiently.
• Continuous engagement within the team to manage client deliverables.
• Produce monthly and quarterly portfolio reports and commentary for clients.
• Oversight of the completion and review of due diligence questionnaires for existing and potential clients.
• Collaborate with the investment team to position and gather feedback for client requests.
• Coordinate client due-diligence visits and report-backs, including agenda development and securing presenters.
• Ensure timely completion and alignment of internal processes across Legal, Investment, Operations, Compliance, and Transitions teams.
• Coordination and management of the new client take-on process.
• Develop and maintain a range of monthly and quarterly distribution channel reports covering the institutional market on client flows, AUM, fees, etc.
• Development and maintenance of legal and fee agreements.
• Managing electronic bulk email communication, including target list for events.
• Maintenance and management of all client data in line with POPIA (CRM database and network files), ensuring high levels of data integrity.
• Analyse client funds/portfolios to identify new business opportunities and flag risks to client retention.
• Analyse competitor and client activities to facilitate the development of strategic and tactical initiatives to retain and grow assets under management – flows, products, fees, performance, distribution, etc.
• Support with managing information reporting as and when required.
• Analysis of global industry-specific trends and development of report highlighting key findings.
• Assist with ad-hoc projects.

Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Minimum degree in finance or related field with an understanding of investment markets (CFA level 1, or Honours degree will be an advantage).
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in asset management with an understanding of the institutional market segment and stakeholders.
• Passion for project management and seeking effectiveness in client excellence.
• Solid understanding of investment products and the institutional landscape

Competencies & Personal Attributes

• Tenacity and strong planning, co-ordinating skills.
• Self-motivation and ability to maintain high levels of productivity.
• Strong analytical ability.
• Strong time management skills.
• An ability to independently build strong working relationships with colleagues and clients.
• Strong analytical ability and productivity.
• Commitment to continuous learning and innovative thinking.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Business Development Manager within the M&G Retail Sales Team. As a Retail Business Development Consultant at M&G, you will play a pivotal role in providing exceptional service to bothadvisers and clients within the Southern and Eastern Cape (Mossel Bay to East London). While based at our HeadOffice in Cape Town, you will be responsible for managing and enhancing relationships with a panel of advisorsand clients in the specified regions. The ideal candidate will report to the National Sales Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage relationships with a panel of financial advisors and clients (e.g. IFAs, WealthManagers, FoF Managers, CAT2 advisors, LISP consultants, tied advisors).
• Act as a primary point of contact for advisers.
• Provide training and support on our retail products and
• Collaborate with advisers to understand their needs and tailor solutions
• Identify and develop new relationships.
• With regards to the panel mentioned, to:
• Develop and execute a servicing strategy to promote M&G and M&G funds /
• Develop a partnership mentality with your advisors – M&G should be viewed as a business partner.
• Develop a firm understanding of how you can add value to your advisor panel.
• ‘Manage’ the flows / AUM in accordance with your business plan that reflects the business objectives.
• Ensure the investment decision-maker is kept informed and updated on M&G.
• Conduct meetings / presentations to individuals as well as to
• Assist clients (where necessary) with administration queries, information requests, (in conjunctionwith the relevant departments within M&G).
• Take responsibility for the efficient co-ordination of regional events/ presentations (in conjunctionwith M&G’s marketing team) to this panel.
• Collate, update & manage a database of these advisors/clients.
• Be up to date on all aspects of the Collective Investment & LISP industries – including theregulatory environment in which they operate.
• Research and be familiar with competitor products in the industry to position M&G’s funds/products appropriately with advisors/clients.
• As part of the role, the consultant will also need to assist with ad-hoc presentations to various director other clients /prospective advisors / banks who request a spokesperson from M&G.
• Ensure all client interactions and meetings are captured in core CRM system.

Attributes Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• An appropriate tertiary qualification (CFA / CFP advantageous).
• At least 5 years’ experience in asset management/financial services
• An in-depth understanding of the investment market (economies, stocks, asset allocation ), as well as theCIS and LISP industries.
• Knowledge of the Discretionary Fund Management industry and its relationship with
• A track record of selling across both traditional product lines, as well as into complex or illiquid products andoffshore
• Strong commercial acumen and business insight, with a good understanding of investment
• Competencies & Personal Attributes
• Be well-versed in economic and have a passion for investment markets, with a sound understanding of assetclass fundamentals and the financial services industry (as mentioned above).
• An ability to synthesize industry and competitor information, and to effectively analyze this andformulate conclusions/ propose action plans.
• Have the highest standards of ethics and integrity and be able to manage confidential information andsensitive
• Self-starter mentality.
• A team player who relates well to colleagues and
• Passion for exceptional client
• Strong relationship management and networking skills, with skilled persuasiveness and
• Excellent presentation skills, with an ability to communicate in a simple and concise manner withcolleagues and clients, both in oral and written form.
• Team player with a positive and ‘can do’
• Detail orientated, with strong planning and coordinating
• Willingness to travel to outlying areas as and when required.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Business Development Manager within the M&G Retail Sales Team. As a Retail Consultant at M&G, you will play a pivotal role in providing exceptional service to both advisers and clients withinthe Western Cape (CBD and surrounding areas). While based at our Head Office in Cape Town, you will beresponsible for managing and enhancing relationships with a panel of advisors and clients in the specified regions.The ideal candidate will report to the National Sales Manager.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and manage relationships with a panel of financial advisors and clients (e.g. IFAs, WealthManagers, FoF Managers, CAT2 advisors, LISP consultants, tied advisors).
• Act as a primary point of contact for advisers.
• Provide training and support on our retail products and
• Collaborate with advisers to understand their needs and tailor solutions
• Identify and develop new relationships.
• With regards to the panel mentioned, to:
• Develop and execute a servicing strategy to promote M&G and M&G funds /
• Develop a partnership mentality with your advisors – M&G should be viewed as a business partner.
• Develop a firm understanding of how you can add value to your advisor panel.
• ‘Manage’ the flows / AUM in accordance with your business plan that reflects the business objectives.
• Ensure the investment decision-maker is kept informed and updated on M&G.
• Conduct meetings / presentations to individuals as well as to
• Assist clients (where necessary) with administration queries, information requests, (in conjunctionwith the relevant departments within M&G).
• Take responsibility for the efficient co-ordination of regional events/ presentations (in conjunctionwith M&G’s marketing team) to this panel.
• Collate, update & manage a database of these advisors/clients.
• Be up to date on all aspects of the Collective Investment & LISP industries – including theregulatory environment in which they operate.
• Research and be familiar with competitor products in the industry to position M&G’s funds/products appropriately with advisors/clients.
• As part of the role, the consultant will also need to assist with ad-hoc presentations to various director other clients /prospective advisors / banks who request a spokesperson from M&G.
• Ensure all client interactions and meetings are captured in core CRM system.

Attributes Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• An appropriate tertiary qualification (CFA / CFP advantageous).
• At least 5 years’ experience in asset management/financial services
• An in-depth understanding of the investment market (economies, stocks, asset allocation ), as well as theCIS and LISP industries.
• Knowledge of the Discretionary Fund Management industry and its relationship with
• A track record of selling across both traditional product lines, as well as into complex or illiquid products andoffshore
• Strong commercial acumen and business insight, with a good understanding of investment
• Competencies & Personal Attributes
• Be well-versed in economic and have a passion for investment markets, with a sound understanding of assetclass fundamentals and the financial services industry (as mentioned above).
• An ability to synthesize industry and competitor information, and to effectively analyze this andformulate conclusions/ propose action plans.
• Have the highest standards of ethics and integrity and be able to manage confidential information andsensitive
• Self-starter mentality.
• A team player who relates well to colleagues and
• Passion for exceptional client
• Strong relationship management and networking skills, with skilled persuasiveness and
• Excellent presentation skills, with an ability to communicate in a simple and concise manner withcolleagues and clients, both in oral and written form.
• Team player with a positive and ‘can do’
• Detail orientated, with strong planning and coordinating
• Willingness to travel to outlying areas as and when required.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen within the Product business unit of M&G Investments Southern Africa. The vacancy is for a Product Development Specialist that will work within an established but expanding product team. We are looking for a dynamic and innovative candidate to join our team. This role is integral to our mission of developing and enhancing our product offerings to meet the evolving needs of our clients. This position reports to the Head of Product.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive market research and competitive analysis to inform product development decisions.
• Develop new product proposals for consideration by the firm’s Product Committee.
• For specific product developments, manage the development lifecycle from product specification, regulatory approvals, and launch, while working with internal stakeholders such as the investment team, distribution, marketing, compliance, and operations.
• Monitor and evaluate existing products, including recommending and driving the implementation of any identified required redesigns.
• Technical ownership of performance fee models and modelling support to the firm’s Fee Committee.
• Provide ongoing support and training to client-facing teams on new and existing products, which includes the firm’s range of global funds.

Qualifications, skills and experience

• An appropriate finance-related tertiary qualification (e.g. BBusSc, BAcc, BComm) - CFA charterholder will be an added advantage
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the asset management industry, ideally in product development roles.
• A good understanding of financial markets, investment strategies, client segments, and regulatory environments (South Africa and EU).
• Expert proficiency in MS Office and general data analysis, while working knowledge of Morningstar and other fund databases will be an added advantage.
• Competencies and personal attributes
• Analytical skills: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.
• Numerical skills: High proficiency with numbers, quantitative analysis, and financial modelling.
• Attention to detail: High level of accuracy and thoroughness.
• Innovative thinking: Ability to think creatively and identify new opportunities for product development and improvement.
• Multi-tasking and time management: Strong ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritise tasks effectively, and meet tight deadlines.
• Written and oral communication skills: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present ideas clearly and persuasively, both in writing and verbally.
• High levels of initiative and a strong work ethic: proactive with the ability to take initiative and drive projects forward independently, self-motivated, and capable of working autonomously.
• People skills: The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across various functions and areas of the business.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Head of Retail within the M&G Retail Business Team. This role is accountable for the management of the retail market segment which includes the development and management of existing relationships and partnerships within the retail market segment inclusive – but not limited to Independent and Tied Financial Advisors, Family Offices, Private Wealth Managers, Stockbrokers, Linked Investment Service Providers and other Cat 2 Wealth Managers. The role includes driving the strategy for this market segment as well as ensuring appropriate resourcing, capacity and skills. The ideal candidate will need to demonstrate a deep understanding of and extensive experience within the South African retail market.
• Reporting directly to the Head of Distribution, the ideal candidate will have proven track record of managing high performance teams, strategic leadership skills, a client-centric approach and strong collaboration skills across internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a business development strategy for the retail market segment aligned to M&G’s overall business strategy.
• Conduct research into market trends, competitive landscape and emerging opportunities to ensure M&G has a competitive capability offering for the retail market in both local and global solutions ensuring appropriate pricing structures.
• Fulfil a proactive role in the identification, formulation and implementation of strategic projects / workstreams supportive of M&G’s strategic goals.
• Ensure M&G builds meaningful long-term partnerships with retail clients by ensuring strong value adding client experiences underpinned by an ethos of knowledge-based client relationships, process driven protocols, high quality excellence in service levels, strong market visibility, robust client activity and the diligent use of our Sugar CRM system.
• Provide technical product support, investment insights and knowledge to team members and be able to step in to do a presentation or report back etc. when a fund manager is not available or where required.
• Actively influence, facilitate and collaborate with internal stakeholders both in SA and globally to ensure functioning and efficient support services – thus ensuring a well-executed client journey providing our clients with seamless access to M&G’s local and global investment expertise.
• Facilitate the development of tactical responses to segment focus areas and themes in collaboration with other stake holders such as Front Office and Marketing in support of the overall business strategy.
• Accountable for the ownership of all M&G and Partner events in the retail market in collaboration with Marketing ensuing that the M&G brand receives appropriate prevalence in line with the targeted client segments.
• Represent M&G and present at industry events, conferences, and other forums.
• Ensure appropriate governance structures are in place and complied with across all areas of responsibility.
• Set the tone on culture in the retail distribution team, ensuring a high-performance culture based on professional integrity consistently displaying high ethical standards such as honesty, dependability, confidentiality and trustworthiness.
• Manage the retail team in a manner that ensures individuals can deliver to their highest potential, in a collegiate and constructive environment.
• Be a positive contributor to the wider M&G Distribution team, facilitating collaboration and integration in terms of client servicing standards and the implementation of the go-to-market business strategy.
• Be a positive contributor at various management forums keeping management and Exco informed on key strategic and tactical issues pertaining to the retail market that may impact on our business targets and goals.

Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Minimum Honours degree in finance, investments or related field (CFA, MBA, or Master's (finance related preferred) with a solid understanding of investment markets.
• Minimum of 15 years of relevant client-facing experience in asset management or investment consulting, with a proven track record in managing high performance teams, strategic leadership skills, a client-centric approach and strong collaboration skills across internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong commercial acumen and business awareness, with an in-depth understanding of investment products and the South African retail asset management landscape.

Competencies & Personal Attributes

• Strategic Thinking - An ability to think strategically and develop and implement a business strategy based on an in-depth understanding of local and global market trends, client needs and emerging opportunities, leveraging market research.
• Leadership and Team Empowerment - An ability to inspire and empower teams, set clear goals, and create an environment that fosters innovation and collaboration, ensuring a high-performance culture that drives the business development process forward effectively.
• Networking and Relationship Management - An ability to build and maintain strong professional networks and build long-term value-adding relationships internally and with clients, partners, and other industry influencers and stakeholder.
• Negotiation - An ability to negotiate mutually beneficial contracts and terms that benefit both the organisation and the needs of clients / strategic partners.
• Market Analysis and Business Intelligence - Proficiency in analyzing market trends, competitor activities, potential business opportunities or threats to inform strategic decisions, identify new market segments, and anticipate industry shifts.
• Project Management - Ability to plan, execute, and manage projects from conception to completion. This includes setting clear objectives, coordinating with cross-functional teams, managing resources, and ensuring that projects align with overall strategic goals.
• Communication and Presentation Skills - Effective communication skills to communicate, present, assert and speak to various stakeholders via various platforms. An ability to explain complex investment concepts simply and understandably.
• Integrity and Ethical Conduct - Consistently displaying a high level of professional integrity with ethical standards such as honesty, dependability, confidentiality and trustworthiness.
• Teamwork and Collaboration - An Ability to collaborate with multiple parties from inside and outside the business to build relationships, influence and manage conflicts fostering a cohesive and supportive working environment.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Risk Analyst with a focus on Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) within the M&G Risk Team. This position would suit someone with a very good academic record, who can work autonomously, is adaptable and who can work to high standards and across multiple disciplines. He or she will thrive in a challenging, pressured environment with exposure at all levels of the organisation.
• The successful candidate should enjoy working in financial services and will be responsible in assisting the Risk Manager in facilitating the roll out of the Operational Risk Standards across the business. The role requires a self-starter who works independently, as well as within a team and builds solid working relationships with the broader business as well as external parties, as needed. The successful candidate will report to the Risk Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Facilitate the identification, assessment and monitoring of key risks and of the adequacy and effectiveness of key controls per functional area within M&G SA.
• Facilitate the identification, assessment, and monitoring of emerging risks.
• Ensure regular engagement and challenge of risks affecting our business from third-party service providers and vendors.
• Analysing and reporting of Key Risk Indicators (KRI’s) that are outside of risk appetite.
• Assist with updating company specific risk reports (Unit Trusts, Life and Namibia).
• Assist in the process of capturing, assessing, monitoring, reporting, and escalating (where necessary) operational risk events across M&G SA.
• Facilitate the annual assessment of User Defined Applications (UDA’s) across the business in terms of the M&G SA UDA policy.
• Ensure that any changes / additional requirements to the M&G plc Risk Management Framework and Operational Risk Standards are rolled out and facilitated across the business.
• Perform deep dive risk reviews in line with the business’s combined assurance model and the M&G plc Thematic Review Framework
• Positively influence the risk culture of the organisation and identify actions to improve the risk culture.
• Work closely with the Control Assurance and Compliance departments as part of the M&G combined assurance model.
• Liaise with Group Internal Audit Function and External Audit on audits conducted and provide assurance on the timely and appropriate resolution of audit findings.

Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Tertiary qualification (such as CA(SA) or BCom).
• A minimum of three years working experience in ERM / internal or external audit.
• Analytical and critical reasoning skills.
• Experience working on MetricStream / OpenPages would be an advantage.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent numeracy skills.
• Technical understanding of financial products and instruments.
• Competencies & Personal Attributes
• Ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Be assertive and self-motivated.
• Pro-actively facilitate and influence key stakeholders.
• Build effective and respectful relationships internally and externally.
• Tolerate stress.
• Work to process.
• Pay attention to detail.
• Confidentiality is an absolute requirement, and any breach of confidentiality or honesty will not be tolerated.
• Integrity must be unquestionable.

go to method of application »

Overview

• A vacancy has arisen for a Quantitative Analyst at M&G SA. This position would be suited for someone with an exceptional academic record and advanced technical skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Research focus – reading and replicating papers about subjects that could enhance the existing investment process, drive new product development, or provide additional insight.
• Supporting the investment process and broader business with sound analysis and interpretation of data as a member of the Quants team.
• Coding skills – R and/or Python strongly preferred, otherwise Matlab.
• Generating ideas and prototypes for tools to enhance the investment process.
• Enhancing existing quantitative portfolio management tools (written in R).
• Reading, understanding and maintaining others’ code, and writing code that others will read.
• Sourcing, organising and cleaning the data required for tools and prototypes under development.
• Developing and documenting machine learning and/or statistical models to assist in the investment process.
• Partnering with ITS in order to roll out and enhance the use of systems and databases within the investment team.
• Remaining abreast of developments in big data/AI/fintech that may be useful in the investment context.
• General and recurring analysis tasks related to being a member of the quants team (both for the investment team and other parts of the business).

Attributes, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Relevant academic qualification with a strong focus on statistics, applied mathematics, data analysis, or financial modelling – Masters level strongly preferred.
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience, but preferably at least 5, as a quantitative analyst/quant developer.
• Willing to consider completing the CFA qualification (or CAIA, or FRM, or similar) depending on existing academic qualifications and experience.

Software knowledge:

• R and/or Python (preferred) or Matlab. VBA would also be useful.
• Bloomberg, Inet/IRESS, Thomson Reuters/Refinitiv experience would be an advantage.
• Factset and/or MSCI BarraOne experience would be useful.

Competencies & Personal Attributes

• Motivated and able to learn new skills and concepts independently, and capable of consuming large volumes of information.
• A finisher.
• Able to work at a consistent rate even without firm deadlines, in an unstructured, high-trust environment.
• Ability to think through and solve complex problems.
• The ability to accept requests that specify the question to be answered, but not necessarily how to answer it.
• The ability to determine when a rapid, “good enough” answer is required, vs a detailed, perfectly robust one.
• Self-organising, able to prioritise unless external guidance is provided.
• Able to judge when to ask for help.
• Able to function well as part of a team with complementary but different skills.
• The ability and confidence to clearly explain technical material at an appropriate level to the audience.
• Sense of accountability, ethics and responsibility.
• Attention to detail, with consistent production of clearly documented, well-organised output.
• Ability to work independently and to accept feedback.