Your feedback at work

By Geoff Kellett, Head of Sales

One of the most rewarding parts of representing the sales team at IOOF is listening first hand to the feedback of advisers and being able to respond to that feedback. As we approach the end of another challenging year in the advice industry, I’m encouraged by the success that so many of our supporters are having in growing their business and the ways we have been able to develop our offering to support them in this growth.

The speed and volume of regulatory change this year has meant that increasing levels of resources have needed to be directed towards meeting ongoing changes. It’s great to consider some of important things we have been able to deliver during 2012 based on your feedback, picking out a few highlights:

Launch of IOOF AdviserConnect

After running a comprehensive survey back in February, and interviewing dozens of advisers and licencees to find out what support you really valued from IOOF, the IOOF AdviserConnect program was developed, tested and launched to market in August this year. The program is designed around giving more than just great products and service to advisers, but providing support to help you grow a successful advice business over time. IOOF AdviserConnect provides services in areas such as technical strategies, practice management, marketing, and business support and training, so there is something on offer for any practice.

Developments to our online support

Advisers consistently tell us that they want to choose the way that they gather information and engage with IOOF. Whilst we remain committed to having a strong BDM and adviser services team, we have also made dealing with us online even easier. This includes some important changes to the reporting available via Portfolio Online (such as the internal rate of return report) and the way we can accept new applications (simply email them to us, click here for a flyer). The other really exciting online development was the launch of the web-based version of our IOOF Fast Fact Finder, meaning the reference information is always available - whether you are in the office, or out with a client and using your mobile.

Changes to IOOF Pursuit  

Most recently we have launched some important changes to the IOOF Pursuit Select and Focus range, not only in response to your feedback, but also to ensure you have a platform that helps you adjust to the changes required by FoFA. Greater flexibility and choice in the way you prefer to charge your clients for advice, a reduction in cost for those wishing to hold shares via Pursuit Select, and an easier to complete and lodge application form are some of the highlights of our enhanced IOOF Pursuit offer. Click here for more information.

Further improvements to come

Based on your feedback, you will see more exciting changes to come in 2013, right across our range of platforms, investments such as IOOF MultiMix and IOOF WealthBuilder.

At IOOF we recognise that you have a choice as to whom you trust with your clients’ investments. It’s with that recognition in mind that we continue to invite your feedback on the areas you would like us to improve, and ideas you may have on how we can best support your business. If you missed some of the changes above over the year and would like to hear more, please let us know.

Thank you all for your ongoing support over 2012 and wishing you and your families a safe and prosperous holiday season.

Best regards,

Geoff.