OCBC Upskills Mortgage Specialists into Wealth Advisors
OCBC has launched Singapore’s first programme to transform mortgage specialists into certified wealth advisors, equipping them to provide affluent clients with holistic financial services that go well beyond home loans.
Traditionally, mortgage specialists are restricted to offering home loans, while only certified financial advisers can provide wealth advisory services.
OCBC’s new initiative removes that boundary by empowering specialists with dual capabilities, creating seamless service delivery, stronger client relationships, and higher retention, according to a media release sent on Monday.
Statistics show that home loan customers already hold twice as many products with the bank and 1.6 times higher assets under management compared to others.
Win for Clients and Talent
The programme also functions as a talent retention strategy. Mortgage specialists are often the first point of contact for new-to-bank clients – one in four customers start with a home loan – making them well placed to advise on broader financial needs.
By upskilling, they can evolve from a «mortgage-only» role into trusted wealth advisors while also advancing their own careers.
First Batch Steps Into New Roles
So far, 15 senior mortgage specialists have been selected, with the first batch of nine completing the four-month programme and officially stepping into expanded wealth advisory roles on 1 October 2025.
On average, these pioneers bring nine years of mortgage experience to their new responsibilities.
Three-Pronged Training Approach
The robust upskilling programme consists of three components: classroom training adapted from OCBC’s relationship manager curriculum, industry certification via the CMFAS exams, and on-the-job coaching with product experts and supervisors.
Graduates will also undergo annual refresher courses to stay up to date with developments in both mortgage and wealth management.
Leadership: «Holistic Support for Clients»
Sunny Quek, Head of Global Consumer Financial Services at OCBC, highlighted the initiative’s dual benefits: «Homeownership is a major life milestone, and the financing process can be complex. This initiative not only expands specialists’ expertise but also strengthens the OCBC Premier Banking proposition. By equipping mortgage specialists to support customers holistically, from home financing to long-term wealth planning, we can deepen relationships and reinforce our position in wealth management».
Specialists Welcome the Change
Belle Leow (pictured above), one of the first graduates, described the impact on her work: «Supporting my clients through their home loan journey has given me insight into their broader financial goals. Before, many asked if I could help with financial planning, and I always wished I could do more. This programme has made that possible. It’s not just about expanding my role — it’s a chance for personal growth».
