Graduate Programme – Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) | Momentum Distribution Services

Are you a recent graduate looking to start a career in financial services? Momentum Distribution Services (MDS), in partnership with Proper Financial Services C.C., is offering a structured three-year IFA Graduate Programme in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

The programme combines accredited training, mentorship and practical workplace experience to help graduates develop the skills needed to become professional financial advisers.

Job Details

Job Title: Graduate Programme – Independent Financial Adviser (IFA)

Reference Number: MMH260710-3

Company: Momentum Distribution Services (MDS) in partnership with Proper Financial Services C.C.

Position Type: Graduate

Role Family: Operations

Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Remote Work: Not available

Closing Date: 11 August 2026

About the Graduate Programme

The three-year programme provides graduates with a structured career pathway, starting with administrative support and progressing through a Paraplanner position before moving into a Junior Financial Adviser role under supervision.

Participants will gain practical experience in financial planning, client service, compliance, business operations and financial products while receiving continuous mentorship and professional development.

Why Join the Programme?

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to:

• Follow a structured career path from Administrative Assistant to Financial Adviser.
• Receive accredited training and mentorship from industry professionals.
• Gain practical experience in financial services.
• Develop financial planning and client relationship skills.
• Gain exposure to business operations and community initiatives.
• Develop knowledge of compliance and financial regulations.
• Receive competitive stipends and salaries throughout the programme.
• Work towards professional and regulatory qualifications.

Year 1 – Administrative Assistant

Stipend: R6,500 per month

The first year focuses on building a strong foundation in administration, compliance, client support and financial services.

You will:

• Support IFAs with client onboarding and administration.
• Assist with compliance documentation.
• Participate in structured technical, business and client training.
• Gain exposure to financial needs analysis.
• Learn about FAIS and POPIA compliance.
• Assist with client communication and follow-ups.
• Develop skills in practice management, financial literacy, marketing and digital tools.
• Build relationships with clients, mentors and stakeholders.
• Receive continuous mentorship and coaching.

Year 2 – Paraplanner

Salary: R14,000 per month

During the second year, graduates transition into a Paraplanner role and begin developing more advanced financial planning and technical skills.

You will:

• Support financial advisers with financial planning.
• Begin preparation for the Regulatory Examination (RE5).
• Assist with developing holistic financial plans.
• Identify cross-selling and upselling opportunities.
• Assist with client reviews.
• Develop knowledge of financial products and quoting processes.
• Learn about client segmentation.
• Continue 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

The third year focuses on preparing graduates to become professional financial advisers.

You will:

• Transition into a Junior Financial Adviser role under supervision.
• Complete Fit & Proper competency requirements.
• Complete Class of Business training.
• Obtain product-specific accreditation.
• Complete the RE5 qualification.
• Gain practical experience in client-facing engagements.
• Develop skills in delivering financial advice.
• Participate in quarterly mock client-facing assessments.
• Develop confidence in providing inclusive financial solutions.
• Prepare for potential future progression, including RE1 examinations and CFP designation.

Requirements

To qualify for the programme, applicants must have:

• A minimum BCom degree in Financial Planning, Estate Planning, Legal Business Management, Marketing, Communications or Finance.
• Strong digital capabilities.
• A willingness to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• No previous financial services industry experience is required.
• Applicants must reside in the placement region or surrounding areas.

Duties and Responsibilities

Successful candidates will be responsible for:

• Supporting IFAs with client onboarding, administration and compliance documentation.
• Assisting with reports, presentations and data analysis.
• Ensuring compliance with FAIS, POPIA and other regulatory requirements.
• Participating in structured learning, assessments and feedback sessions.
• Providing professional and client-focused support.
• Building positive relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Contributing to effective service delivery.
• Recommending improvements to client service.
• Participating in CSI initiatives.
• Working collaboratively with peers, mentors and stakeholders.
• Developing knowledge of financial services and industry trends.
• Taking ownership of personal and professional development.
• Identifying opportunities to improve workflows.
• Supporting risk identification and mitigation processes.
• Maintaining high ethical and compliance standards.

Key Competencies

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Initiative and accountability: Takes ownership and demonstrates confidence.
• Systems thinking: Understands how their responsibilities contribute to broader organisational goals.
• Planning and organising: Manages time, resources and deadlines effectively.
• Client focus: Maintains high standards of accuracy and professionalism.
• Following procedures: Adheres to company policies and compliance requirements.
• Resilience: Remains productive under pressure and learns from feedback.
• Commercial thinking: Understands industry trends and identifies opportunities to add value.

How to Apply

Graduates who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply Click here to apply for Momentum Independent Financial Adviser Graduate Programme in Durban.

Closing Date: 11 August 2026

Important: Applicants should verify the vacancy and application details on the official company careers page before submitting personal information or documents.