Progress while learning

Managing and retaining portfolios of corporate clients
Angala emphasised the importance of embracing continuous learning by always seeking opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills.
Wetumwene Shikage
AlexForbes consultant Suoma Angala observes a dynamic learning experience within the financial industry.

She holds an honours degree in business administration from the University of Namibia and a certificate in organisational risk management from the Namibia University of Science and Technology, while she is currently pursuing a post-graduate diploma in financial planning from Milpark University in Cape Town.

Although she was not sure what field she wanted to work in, she pursued her studies to work in corporate finance.

Her job allows for progress and she has identified accomplishments through effective collaboration with her team. She recalls her biggest achievement as when she “successfully acquired a client possessing assets valued at more than N$60 million”.

Angala identifies the ability to work remotely and still be effective in executing her duties as the best thing about her job.

Amongst other tasks as a consultant, she is responsible for managing and retaining portfolios of corporate clients; hosting meetings with pension fund clients while providing them with market, legal and industry updates, and guidance on pension fund management and responding to queries.

She is also responsible for providing investment risk and technical advice to clients.



Lessons

While working for AlexForbes, Angala has continually learnt and shares some of her lessons.

“Interacting with clients and board of trustees is a crucial aspect of my role. I have learnt to build and maintain strong client relationships, understanding their needs, and providing tailored solutions to them,” she said.

Additionally, she said problem-solving requires critical thinking and innovative solutions, while collaborating with colleagues and experts in the industry is essential for success and achieving common goals. Lastly, balancing multiple tasks, managing deadlines and meeting client expectations are further lessons she gained throughout her career.



Career advice

After sharing her career expertise, Angala was willing to share career motivation for youth who aspire to venture into a similar world of work. “It is important to embrace continuous learning by always seeking opportunities to expand knowledge and skills in areas such as investment management, risk assessment, pension fund governance and regulatory compliance."

She added that demonstrating integrity and accountability is necessary to earn the trust of clients and colleagues.

“It does not matter whether it is on a client level or amongst co-workers, friends or family. Be ethical and do what is morally right in all circumstances,” she said.

When Angala is not at work, she enjoys cooking, travelling and socialising with friends and family.