Graduate Programme – Independent Financial Adviser (IFA)
Recruiter: Proper Financial Services C.C. in partnership with Momentum Distribution Services (MDS)
Position: Graduate Programme – Independent Financial Adviser (IFA)
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Employment Type: Graduate Programme (3 Years)
Industry: Financial Services
Programme Duration: 3 Years
Minimum Qualification: BCom Degree (Relevant Fields)
Closing Date: 15 July 2026
Job Overview
Momentum Distribution Services (MDS), in partnership with Proper Financial Services C.C., is offering graduates the opportunity to launch a rewarding career through its Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) Graduate Programme. This structured three-year programme is designed to develop future financial advisers by combining accredited learning, practical workplace experience, mentorship, and career progression.
The programme is ideal for graduates who are passionate about finance, business, client relationships, and helping people make informed financial decisions. No previous industry experience is required, making this an excellent entry-level opportunity for recent graduates who are eager to learn and grow within the financial services industry.
Throughout the programme, participants will receive ongoing coaching from experienced professionals while developing technical knowledge, business skills, compliance understanding, and ethical advisory practices. Graduates will also gain valuable exposure to community initiatives, business operations, and client engagement, preparing them for long-term careers as trusted financial advisers.
The programme follows a clear career progression path, allowing participants to move from an administrative support role into financial planning before eventually becoming Junior Financial Advisers under professional supervision.
Year 1 – Foundation Phase (Administrative Assistant)
During the first year, graduates will earn a monthly stipend of R6,500 while building a strong foundation in financial services administration and client support.
Participants will:
- Support Independent Financial Advisers with client onboarding.
- Prepare compliance documentation.
- Assist with administration and client communication.
- Learn financial needs analysis.
- Gain knowledge of FAIS, POPIA, and other industry regulations.
- Develop financial literacy and practice management skills.
- Receive structured training and continuous mentorship.
- Learn marketing, digital tools, and business processes.
The focus of the first year is building confidence, technical competence, and professional workplace skills.
Year 2 – Paraplanner Phase
Successful graduates will progress into a Paraplanner role with a salary of R14,000 per month.
During this phase, participants will:
- Assist advisers with financial planning.
- Learn how to prepare holistic financial plans.
- Support client reviews.
- Develop analytical and reporting skills.
- Identify opportunities for additional financial solutions.
- Begin preparing for the RE5 Regulatory Examination.
- Continue structured learning through the New Adviser Academy.
This stage provides deeper exposure to financial planning and advisory support.
Year 3 – Junior Financial Adviser
In the final year, graduates transition into a Junior Financial Adviser position under supervision with a salary of R18,000 per month.
Participants will:
- Work directly with clients.
- Deliver financial advice under supervision.
- Complete Fit & Proper competency requirements.
- Obtain Class of Business and Product Accreditation.
- Complete the RE5 qualification.
- Participate in practical client assessments.
- Build confidence in delivering ethical financial advice.
- Prepare for long-term professional qualifications such as RE1 and CFP.
By the end of the programme, graduates will have developed the technical knowledge, practical experience, and professional confidence required to pursue successful careers within the financial advisory industry.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
Qualifications
A completed BCom Degree in one of the following fields:
- Financial Planning
- Estate Planning
- Legal Business Management
- Marketing
- Communications
- Finance
Experience
- No previous industry experience required.
- This programme is designed for recent graduates.
Additional Requirements
- Strong digital literacy.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Must reside in Durban or surrounding areas.
Key Responsibilities
Participants will:
- Support Independent Financial Advisers with administration.
- Assist with client onboarding.
- Prepare reports and presentations.
- Analyse business information.
- Ensure compliance with FAIS, POPIA, and company policies.
- Participate in structured learning and assessments.
- Deliver professional client service.
- Build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
- Support community and CSI initiatives.
- Develop financial advisory knowledge.
- Contribute innovative ideas.
- Participate in mentorship programmes.
- Manage resources responsibly.
- Support compliance and risk management processes.
- Continuously improve professional knowledge.
Skills and Competencies
Successful applicants should demonstrate:
- Initiative and accountability.
- Strong planning and organisational skills.
- Professional communication.
- Customer service orientation.
- Analytical thinking.
- Commercial awareness.
- Ethical decision-making.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Problem-solving ability.
- Adaptability.
- Teamwork.
- Willingness to learn.
- Strong attention to detail.
Programme Benefits
Successful graduates will receive:
- A structured 3-year career development programme.
- Accredited industry training.
- Continuous mentorship and coaching.
- Hands-on workplace experience.
- Clear career progression.
- Exposure to business operations and financial planning.
- Community engagement opportunities.
- Year 1: R6,500 monthly stipend.
- Year 2: R14,000 monthly salary.
- Year 3: R18,000 monthly salary.
- Preparation for RE5 and future financial adviser qualifications.
- Long-term career opportunities within Momentum Distribution Services.
Why Join Momentum Distribution Services?
This programme provides graduates with an outstanding opportunity to build a professional career in financial services while receiving structured training, practical experience, mentorship, and nationally recognised industry exposure. With no prior experience required and a clearly defined pathway from graduate to Junior Financial Adviser, participants gain the knowledge, confidence, and qualifications needed to succeed in one of South Africa’s growing financial sectors.
If you’re a motivated graduate ready to begin your journey in financial services, this programme offers an excellent foundation for long-term career success.
Closing Date: 15 July 2026.