Change Management, Communication and Distribution Engagement Forum (DEF) Lead at Sanlam Group

What will you do?

• As the Change Management, Communication and Distribution Engagement Forum (DEF) Lead, you will play a pivotal role in driving change management initiatives, orchestrating communication strategies and overseeing the Distribution Engagement Forum. Your responsibilities will encompass planning, executing and reporting on change management efforts across all distribution channels, ensuring seamless communication internally and fostering employee engagement through the DEF.

Change Strategy Development and Implementation:

• Strategic Planning: Lead the development of comprehensive change management strategies aligned with Distribution objectives and priorities. 
• Change Architecture: Design and establish the framework and governance structure for managing change initiatives across the Distribution Channels. 

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

• Stakeholder Analysis: Develop tailored engagement strategies to build support and alignment among stakeholders at all levels.
• Communication Planning: Develop and implement communication plans to keep stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the change process. 

Change Capability Building and Support:

• Change Leadership Development: Provide leadership development programs and support to equip managers and leaders with the skills, knowledge, and tools needed to lead change effectively. This includes coaching, mentoring, and providing resources to build change management competency.
• Employee Support and Resources: Ensure that employees have access to the necessary support, resources and training to navigate change successfully. 

Change Readiness Assessment and Monitoring:

• Change Readiness Assessment: Conduct regular assessments of organizational readiness for change to identify gaps, barriers, and areas of strength. 
• Risk Management: Develop risk mitigation plans and contingency measures to address potential challenges.

Communication Plan & Execution:

• Audience Segmentation and Messaging: Segment target audiences, Develop tailored messaging and communication strategies to effectively reach and engage each audience segment.
• Multi-channel Integration: Implement a multi-channel communication approach, utilizing a combination of traditional and digital channels. Ensure consistency of messaging across all channels.

Distribution Engagement Forum (DEF) Management:

• Agenda Development and Facilitation: Lead the DEF meeting agendas in collaboration with cross-functional teams. Facilitate engaging and productive meetings that encourage open dialogue, idea sharing and problem-solving.
• Action Item Tracking and Follow-up: Maintain a comprehensive log of DEF meeting minutes, action items, and decisions. Ensure timely follow-up on action items and accountability..

What will make you successful in this role?

• Change Management Expertise: Demonstrated experience in developing, executing and measuring change management strategies. This includes guiding the business through change initiatives, analyzing impacts and ensuring successful execution.
• Communication Mastery: Exceptional communication skills are essential. You must effectively convey messages internally, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and maintaining consistency across all channels.
• Distribution Engagement Forum Leadership: Ability to lead and manage the Distribution Engagement Forum effectively. This involves planning, facilitating discussions and reporting on outcomes to drive employee engagement and alignment with business goals.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong strategic thinking capabilities to develop and implement marketing and communication strategies aligned with business objectives. This includes identifying target audiences, conducting market research and positioning the brand effectively.
• Team Management: Proven ability to manage and motivate a team, providing support, guidance and opportunities for skills development. You'll also be responsible for creating and maintaining a positive team culture.
• Adaptability and Resilience: The financial services industry is dynamic and change is constant. You must be adaptable, resilient and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, overcoming challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Collaboration Skills: Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders is crucial. You'll work closely with various departments and external service providers to ensure seamless execution of communication initiatives.

Experience and Qualification/s required 

• Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in change management
• Certification in communication/journalism will be an added advantage 
• Certification in Project management will be highly advantageous
• 7+ years’ background in a similar position.
• The experience of building targeted content is advantageous.
• Sound understanding of communication practices and procedures.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and work well under pressure.
• Outstanding organizational and leadership skills.