Helping to get deals done a highlight of my role, says senior BDM
BDM in the Spotlight and State Manager in the Spotlight are a regular series, giving brokers insight into the lives of some of the country’s leading relationship managers.
MPA spoke to AMP Bank senior BDM Sonia Partol about how she supports brokers, what she enjoys most about her role and how she spends her time away from the office.
Having studied accounting, Partol started her career as a bank teller. Describing herself as a “people person”, she said she relished daily interactions with bank customers.
“That’s how I knew a career helping people to achieve their financial ambitions was one I wanted to follow,” Partol said.
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Name: Sonia Partol
Years in the industry: 23
Company: AMP Bank
Location: Sydney (Parramatta)
Briefly describe your role and how you support brokers:
Put simply, I support brokers to help their clients create wealth through property. To achieve this, everything I do is centred around making it as easy as possible for brokers to do business with AMP Bank.
For example, when presented with a unique customer scenario, I will work through solutions and iron out any bumps to ensure a smooth transaction.
When things work seamlessly, or are made easy, I am able to show a BDM adds value to brokers.
A short-term goal that you aim to achieve in your role?
My number-one goal is to support my broker partners – continuing to build on these great relationships is my biggest priority. I am passionate about the industry and look for opportunities where I can help my brokers succeed, both within their business and personally. When my brokers achieve their goals, I do too.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
I love building relationships and meeting new brokers, but I have to say that helping them get deals through to settlement is my absolute favourite part of the job.
I also love that every day is different. During the height of COVID-19, much of my day was spent interacting online, but nothing beats connecting in person. Now that we’re hopefully past the worst of the pandemic, I can visit brokers at their offices again, meet over coffee, or at professional development days.
I like to get to know my brokers and their business. From there, it helps me understand how I can best support them and their clients.
What sets successful brokers apart?
The best brokers really take the time to listen and understand customer needs. They’re well-organised and have strong attention to detail. This means they’re able to quickly identify potential challenges, work through problems, and find solutions for their clients’ circumstances. As a result, they have a strong track record and a well-established network within the industry.
Read next: AMP Bank evaluates changes within its mortgage book
Something you would like brokers you deal with to know
That I’m passionate about my work and will go above and beyond to help a broker achieve the right outcome. When we work as a team, that’s when the magic happens.
What is your best saving tip?
To be specific on the desired savings amount. I advocate setting mini monthly goals and keeping track of spending. Many people know “what” they’re saving for, but don’t plan for “how” they’ll get there.
Discipline is key.
Describe your ideal weekend
It would involve a dinner party and time spent with family and friends. I love my local haunts but would never turn down an opportunity to explore new restaurants and bars.
