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- Tasks: Lead and motivate a high-performing team to drive protection sales and revenue.
- Company: Join John Charcol, a respected national brand with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities for professional development and industry exposure.
- Why this job: Shape the future of our protection division and make a real impact in financial services.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in regulated financial services and a strong sales track record required.
- Other info: Application deadline is 14th June 2025; interviews will be held in late June.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: Southampton (with occasional travel as required)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Application Deadline: Friday 14th June 2025
We are recruiting for a newly created position at John Charcol, a Protection Sales Director, to join our leadership team. This is an important and high-impact role, designed to shape and lead the growth strategy of our protection division as part of our wider expansion under Pivotal Growth.
We are looking for an exceptional individual with a strong track record in regulated financial services sales leadership. This is a rare opportunity to build something from the ground up within a highly respected national brand, backed by serious growth ambitions and operational scale.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be responsible for leading and motivating a high-performing team, driving new business revenue, and overseeing the execution of our protection sales strategy. You will work cross-functionally with other departments including Operations, Marketing, Compliance and HR to ensure the division delivers on commercial objectives while upholding regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a protection sales strategy aligned with business goals
- Lead and manage a team to meet new business and retention targets
- Oversee the full sales process, from lead generation through to completion
- Monitor and report on performance metrics including NTU rates and clawbacks
- Maintain a strong understanding of market trends, product developments, and competitor activity
- Ensure full adherence to FCA requirements and internal policies
- Contribute to wider business planning and represent the brand externally at industry events
What We’re Looking For
- Proven leadership experience in a regulated financial services environment
- Strong and consistent protection sales track record
- Excellent people management, coaching, and performance development skills
- High standards of conduct, attention to detail, and commercial awareness
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills
- Able to operate at a strategic level while being hands-on when required
Application Process
This is a critical leadership appointment for John Charcol and Pivotal Growth. We are looking to engage candidates of the highest calibre. To apply, please send your CV by no later than Friday 14th June 2025. A short-written application outlining your suitability for the role is welcomed and encouraged.
Interview Process
First Interview: Late June 2025 (TBC). To be held in either our Southampton or London office with Lisa Walklin-Knight, Chief Operating Officer. The session will last approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and include structured interview questions, competency-based assessments and discussion around the role. Psychometric testing will form part of the pre-screening process.
Second Interview: Final shortlisted candidates (likely 2–3) will meet Chris Wallis, Chief Executive Officer, for a face-to-face meeting.
If you are a dynamic, results-driven leader with a passion for protection and a desire to shape the future of our business, we look forward to hearing from you.
Locations
Contact Detail:
John Charcol - Independent Mortgage Expertise Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Protection Sales Director
✨Tip Number 1
Research John Charcol and Pivotal Growth thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and recent developments in the protection division. This knowledge will help you tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of John Charcol to gain insights into the company culture and expectations for the Protection Sales Director role. This can provide you with valuable information that may not be publicly available.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your leadership skills and success in regulated financial services sales. Be ready to discuss how you've driven revenue growth and managed teams effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on market trends and competitor activities in the protection sector. Being knowledgeable about the industry landscape will allow you to speak confidently about strategic opportunities during your interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Protection Sales Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership experience in regulated financial services. Focus on your protection sales track record and any relevant achievements that align with the responsibilities of the Protection Sales Director role.
Craft a Compelling Written Application: In your written application, clearly outline your suitability for the role. Discuss your experience in leading teams, driving new business revenue, and your understanding of market trends. Be specific about how your skills can contribute to John Charcol's growth strategy.
Highlight Key Skills: Emphasise your people management, coaching, and performance development skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams and met targets in previous roles, showcasing your ability to operate at both strategic and hands-on levels.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread and edit your documents. Ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos, as attention to detail is crucial for this leadership position.
How to prepare for a job interview at John Charcol - Independent Mortgage Expertise
✨Understand the Company and Its Vision
Before your interview, take the time to research John Charcol and its growth ambitions under Pivotal Growth. Familiarise yourself with their protection division and how it fits into the wider business strategy. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Protection Sales Director, you'll need to lead a high-performing team. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your leadership experience in regulated financial services. Highlight your successes in motivating teams, driving sales, and achieving targets to illustrate your capability for this role.
✨Prepare for Competency-Based Questions
Expect structured interview questions that assess your competencies. Prepare by using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to articulate your past experiences. Focus on scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills, ability to work cross-functionally, and adherence to regulatory standards.
✨Demonstrate Your Market Knowledge
Stay updated on market trends, product developments, and competitor activity in the protection sales sector. During the interview, share insights or observations that reflect your understanding of the industry. This will not only show your expertise but also your proactive approach to staying informed.
