Star-studded lineup talked to 650 advisers
NZ Financial Services Group (NZFSG) recently concluded its NEXT Conference tour, hosting events in Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland.
Over 650 advisers and business partners gathered for the conference, which featured keynote addresses from high-profile speakers, including adventurer and business strategist Jamie Fitzgerald, CoreLogic’s head of research Nick Goodall, and LMG’s executive chairperson Sam White.
The conference highlighted NZFSG's latest initiatives and strategic priorities, with CEO Baden Martin (pictured left), Loan Market national director Nicole Ferguson (pictured centre), and head of distribution Brent McGregor (pictured right) providing updates shaped by feedback from their network.
Key points of focus included expanding client solutions, continued investment in technology, enhancing distribution support, and providing professional development opportunities.
Expanding client solutions and diversifying business opportunities
To broaden the range of options available to clients, NZFSG has added non-bank lenders Finbase and Midlands Funds Management to its panel.
Additionally, a new off-panel lending process has been introduced to cater to clients who do not meet standard lending criteria.
This innovation comes as advisers are being encouraged to explore off-panel options by regulatory bodies.
Advisers were also encouraged to explore business diversification through referral partnerships, such as a recent exclusive collaboration with utility connection service Fast Connect, which aims to enhance client service and create new income streams for advisers.
Commitment to technology and cybersecurity
A strong emphasis was placed on technology, with NZFSG continuing to invest in its CRM platform, MyCRM.
The company is rolling out several compliance-by-design enhancements to keep both advisers and clients safe.
Cybersecurity consultant Laura Bennett, who joined NZFSG in April, has been instrumental in upskilling the network on cybersecurity practices, such as identifying phishing emails and safely using AI tools in advisory businesses.
It also comes after NZFSG appointed tech expert Nicola Riordan as non-executive director in June.
Advisers also had the opportunity to preview upcoming technological advancements, including productivity and workflow tools designed to streamline operations and save time.
Strengthening adviser support and professional development
NZFSG and Loan Market have bolstered their teams with the introduction of new roles to better support mortgage and insurance advisers.
The network welcomed Auckland-based regional managers Devaney Davis (Loan Market) and Zane Low (NZFSG), along with national support lead Karina Reardon (Loan Market).
To support professional growth, NZFSG launched the “My Induction” training program tailored for advisers new to the network.
A comprehensive training calendar, resource library, one-on-one business coaching, and live webinars on various topics are also available, allowing advisers to customize their professional development to align with their specific business objectives.
Martin, who was appointed in January, underscored the significance of maintaining a strong network.
"The feedback from our advisers has been pivotal in shaping our proposition over the past six months,” Martin said.
“We’ve introduced a lot of great initiatives, and have a lot more in the pipeline, and I’m confident advisers will significantly benefit from our ongoing enhancements to our technology, services, and support."
