Job Title: Retail Branch Manager – Sanlam Group – Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal
Location: Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Industry: Insurance / Financial Services
Division: Sanlam Developing Markets (SDM)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Date Posted: 5 April 2025
Application Deadline: 9 April 2025
Looking for a rewarding leadership opportunity in the insurance and financial services sector? Sanlam Developing Markets (SDM), a subsidiary of Sanlam Life Limited, is seeking a results-oriented Retail Branch Manager to oversee operations and drive sales in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This is your chance to lead a high-performing team and make a measurable impact in a growing and purpose-driven organization.
About Sanlam Developing Markets (SDM)
SDM is one of South Africa’s leading providers of simple, accessible financial products tailored for the entry-level and emerging middle market. From life insurance and funeral cover to savings and personal accident plans, SDM offers clients practical, affordable solutions. As part of the Sanlam Life and Savings cluster, SDM is focused on enabling financial inclusion and transformation across South Africa.
Position Overview
The Retail Branch Manager will be responsible for managing a dynamic sales and service team to grow revenue and improve customer retention. This role requires strong leadership, industry experience, and a passion for customer service. You will be a central figure in executing Sanlam’s strategy, promoting lending and insurance products, and ensuring the branch delivers a best-in-class customer experience.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Business Growth
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Translate provincial strategy into actionable branch-level business plans.
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Drive Insurance and Lending product uptake across the region.
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Lead initiatives that expand the customer base and maximize revenue growth.
Sales Management
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Oversee the sales lifecycle and manage Branch Consultants to meet or exceed targets.
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Ensure product knowledge, sales techniques, and compliance standards are fully embedded.
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Monitor daily/weekly/monthly KPIs and implement corrective action where necessary.
Service Excellence
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Embed a service-first culture and ensure clients receive consistent, high-quality service.
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Respond to escalated customer complaints and ensure timeous resolution in line with SLAs.
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Collaborate with support teams (HR, IT, Compliance) to ensure smooth branch operations.
Compliance & Risk Mitigation
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Ensure full compliance with FSCA, FAIS, NCA, POPIA, AML, and other industry regulations.
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Monitor risk, manage audits, and enforce quality assurance protocols across the branch.
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Uphold Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) principles in all client engagements.
People Development & Management
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Recruit, onboard, and continuously develop high-potential team members.
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Conduct regular performance reviews, training sessions, and development plans.
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Maintain strong team morale and ensure all HR-related functions are executed effectively.
Community Engagement
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Act as the face of the branch in the local community.
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Represent Sanlam at local forums, financial literacy events, and activation sites to build relationships and drive new business opportunities.
Qualifications & Regulatory Requirements
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Matric / Grade 12
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RE5 Certificate (FAIS)
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120 Wealth Management credits or a recognized FSCA-approved tertiary qualification
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Class of Business (COB) compliant (Annual)
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Continuous Professional Development (CPD) compliant
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Meet Fit and Proper criteria in accordance with FSCA regulations
Experience Requirements
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Minimum 5 years’ experience in the financial services or insurance industry
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At least 3 years in a leadership or branch management role
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Demonstrated experience in insurance sales, credit and lending, and service management
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Track record of building high-performance teams and exceeding sales targets
Key Skills and Competencies
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Deep knowledge of long-term insurance and lending products
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Solid understanding of FSCA, FAIS, NCA, POPIA, and AML frameworks
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Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills
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Strong decision-making, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities
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Ability to drive innovation and optimize work processes
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Strong data analysis and reporting capabilities
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Proficient in Microsoft Office and digital business tools
Personal Attributes
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Interpersonal savvy
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Client-focused with a passion for service
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Strong leadership and organizational skills
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Results-driven and highly resilient
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Excellent communicator (written and verbal)
Why Join Sanlam in Pietermaritzburg?
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Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
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Comprehensive benefits package
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Career growth opportunities within the Sanlam Group’s dynamic business clusters
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A supportive, innovative, and collaborative work culture
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Ongoing access to professional training and development
How to Apply
If you’re ready to elevate your career in financial services, submit your application before 9 April 2025. The recruitment process begins after the application deadline. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
For more exciting opportunities in insurance, banking, and financial services across South Africa, visit Jobs and Career Opportunities.
Employment Equity Commitment:
Sanlam is committed to transformation and diversity. As an equal opportunity employer, preference will be given to applicants from designated groups in line with Sanlam’s Employment Equity Plan.
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