What’s on offer
Different companies have different positions available, and sometimes call them different names, but this should give a clear idea of some of the exciting opportunities in this sector:
Customer Account Manager/Loan consultant
Sales people with a strong customer service focus, account managers and loan consultants are the first point of contact for customers wishing to take out a loan. They assess the customer’s needs and carry out the initial checks necessary, ensuring the customer is right for the business. They advise customers on the best solutions, educating on the products available and determining what is right for them. Some specialise in selling payment protection. Loan consultants are then responsible for ensuring the process is as smooth and efficient as possible, right up to the point of the cheque being issued. It’s a hard-working but fun environment with nothing to stop you from achieving your full potential.
Key responsibilities
- Advising customers on financial products responsibly and effectively.
- Achieving and exceeding sales targets.
- Ensuring the successful completion of the contract by liaising between the customer and the technical team.
| Starting salary | £9,000 to £14,000. Those specialising in payment protection sales may start on £18,000 or more, with large bonus opportunities. |
|---|---|
| Potential earnings | £25,000 to £40,000 |
| Entry requirements | None |
| Professional qualifications |
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| Apprenticeships | Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships. Contact www.careerswales.com |
| Promotional prospects |
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Customer support/care executive
Dealing with existing clients, this role centres on a clear customer focus, fulfilling needs and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. After-sales care requires a good technical knowledge, and gives the opportunity to liase with other professionals such as land registry and solicitors.
Key responsibilities
- Advising customers on solutions to issues as they arise.
- Processing documents and transactions accurately and efficiently.
- Providing first-class care for all customers.
| Starting salary | £9,000 to £18,000 |
|---|---|
| Potential earnings | £18,000 to £22,000 |
| Entry requirements | None |
| Professional qualifications |
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| Apprenticeships | Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships. Contact www.careerswales.com |
| Promotional prospects |
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Underwriter/underwriting executive
By analysing the information about a loan and the borrower, underwriters keep a check on the level of risk each contract exposes their company to. Dealing with sensitive information on a daily basis, you’ll need sound judgement and a good head for figures.
Key responsibilities
- Analysing data in order to establish whether the potential client is an attractive or risky proposition.
- Double-checking documentation and investigating borrower information.
- Reinforcing the company’s commitment to responsible lending.
| Starting salary | £10,000 to £22,000 |
|---|---|
| Potential earnings | £16,000 to £25,000 |
| Entry requirements | No minimum requirements though some employers may expect maths and English GCSE. |
| Professional qualifications |
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| Apprenticeships | Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships. Contact www.careerswales.com |
| Promotional prospects |
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Customer management officers
Responsible for collecting the due payments on a loan, a customer management officer must be a good communicator, prepared to listen and to problem solve. Credit and finance companies build their reputation on trust and recommendation, so this sensitive role needs a calm and mature attitude.
Key responsibilities
- Collecting repayments direct from borrowers.
- Talking to and supporting clients who may be distressed about their financial situation.
- Renegotiating manageable payment plans where necessary.
| Starting salary | £10,000 to £18,000 |
|---|---|
| Potential earnings | £16,000 to £20,000 |
| Entry requirements | No minimum requirements though some employers may expect maths and English GCSE. |
| Professional qualifications |
|
| Apprenticeships | Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships. Contact www.careerswales.com |
| Promotional prospects |
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