ANZIIF has been approved to deliver compliance training equivalent to a Level 5 certificate for insurance advisers, and CEO Prue Willsford says the organisation is “extremely pleased” to be able to offer this to its members.
The FMA has assessed ANZIIF’s proposed compliance certification, and has confirmed that it meets the necessary outcomes of the New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5), Version 2.
Advisers will now be able to obtain ANZIIF’s New Zealand Compliance for Advisers (General Insurance Broking) as an alternative to the Level 5 certificate, and experienced advisers will have the option of being accredited based on their demonstrated capability, or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
Willsford says the new education requirements will be vital to advisers looking to build strong, trust-based relationships under the new regime, and that ANZIIF will be there to support relevant learning at every stage.
“As the insurance industry’s oldest and most recognised non-profit provider of insurance education, training and professional development, we are committed to supporting New Zealand’s general insurance brokers by delivering high quality, relevant learning that meets Code outcomes,” Willsford commented.
“The important thing is to build your trustworthiness, and the areas of character and competence are foundations of that personal relationship.”
Willsford says that she holds education in the highest regard, and that such opportunities will also help bring new talent into the industry.
“I’m an absolute believer in education, and ANZIIF does a lot of work around careers in insurance and financial literacy,” she noted.
“We’re delighted to hear regulators talking about financial literacy too, and that’s something we’re very passionate about. Most people have no idea of the fabulous variety of rewarding careers that exist within the financial services sector, and that’s something ANZIIF does a lot of work with.”
The announcement has since been welcomed by NZbrokers CEO Jo Mason, who applauded the development of alternative pathways for advisers to meet the new Code requirements. Steadfast’s Allan Reynolds and Ando Insurance CEO John Lyon have also responded positively, saying the alternative certification will bring “great value” to the insurance sector.
“Knowledge is key, and our mantra is to support our industry through education and professional development,” Willsford concluded.
“I encourage all New Zealand’s general insurance advisers to register for ANZIIF’s free webinar for more information about the new Code and ANZIIF’s unique offerings.”
