Insights from Momentum Metropolitan’s incoming Group CEO
Tony van Niekerk
In a candid conversation between myself and Jeanette Marais, the newly appointed Group CEO for Momentum Metropolitan, Jeanette reflects on her career journey, the importance of internal and external relationships for MMH, and the role they play in shaping the company’s culture and future.
Here I delve into the key takeaways from our conversation, highlighting the value of relationships in the business world. With over 30 years of experience in the financial industry, Jeanette certainly knows the value of relationships.
Building a Homecoming: The Power of Culture
Jeanette began by expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to lead Momentum Metropolitan, a company she considers her spiritual home. Reflecting on her early days at Momentum, Jeanette emphasized the significance of the company’s culture as the driving force behind her loyalty and dedication. Despite several mergers and expansions over the years, the winning spirit and competitiveness have remained intact, creating a culture that Jeanette described as her personal anchor within the organization.
Enduring Connections: Nurturing Relationships
I acknowledged the remarkable longevity of relationships at Momentum Metropolitan, with many colleagues still present from the early days. Jeanette agreed, recounting the warm welcome she received upon her return five years ago, as well as the expanding network of professionals she has encountered in the industry. She shared that a growing number of former colleagues have rejoined the group, attributing their return to the strength of the company’s culture.
Integration and Diversity: A Fusion of Cultures
The conversation turned to the merger with Metropolitan, and Jeanette discussed how this integration has enriched Momentum Metropolitan’s culture. She highlighted the diversity that came with the merger, with Metropolitan’s Cape Town-based culture and focus on English-speaking markets contributing to the organization’s growth and vibrancy. The fusion of diverse cultures and the expansion into new business branches have brought a unique dynamism to the company.
Commitment to South Africa: Overcoming Challenges Together
Jeanette acknowledged the challenges faced by South Africa, such as high unemployment and financial inclusivity. As a proudly South African company, Momentum Metropolitan is committed to making a positive impact on society. Jeanette emphasized the importance of a healthy private sector in addressing these issues, noting that the company’s success directly correlates with its ability to contribute to solving these problems. She highlighted the ongoing efforts to establish a strong voice within the private sector and collaborate with the government to drive positive change.
Relationships as a Driving Force: Leading with Authenticity
When I drew Jeanette’s attention to the history of building strong relationships throughout her career, and enquired how this strength will contribute to her leadership role as Group CEO, Jeanette affirmed that she will not change who she is because of the promotion. Her focus on fostering deep, meaningful relationships and extending that ethos to clients and advisors is fundamental to her approach. Although she leads with a strong focus on results, she believed that relationships are pivotal to achieving results, and she emphasized the importance of having a purpose as an organization.
Nurturing People: The Core of Success
The conversation concluded by highlighting the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jeanette emphasized the importance of nurturing and looking after the people in the organization. While acknowledging the significance of relationships and a positive culture, she underscored the value of setting challenging goals and achieving them collectively.
In conclusion, Jeanette believed that, in the face of adversity, such as the pandemic, harnessing the talent within an organization is key to survival and growth.