OCBC has launched an innovative upskilling programme designed to transform experienced mortgage specialists into certified wealth advisers. This four-month initiative allows these specialists to expand their roles, offering comprehensive advice on investment and insurance products alongside home loans. The programme aligns with OCBC’s strategic focus on wealth management, aiming to enhance customer relationships and service delivery.
Traditionally, mortgage specialists have been restricted to home loan services, whilst wealth advisory services were the domain of certified financial advisers. By equipping mortgage specialists with both capabilities, OCBC aims to streamline service delivery and deepen customer engagement. According to OCBC, home loan customers typically have twice as many products with the bank and 1.6 times higher assets under management compared to those without a home loan.
The programme also serves as a talent retention strategy, enabling mortgage specialists to develop new skills and remain engaged with the bank. As the first point of contact for many new customers, these specialists are well-positioned to support affluent clients by leveraging their property expertise—a key component of wealth portfolios.
Sunny Quek, Head of Global Consumer Financial Services at OCBC, stated, “This initiative not only expands their areas of expertise but also strengthens the OCBC Premier Banking proposition.” Mortgage specialist Belle Leow, who completed the programme, expressed enthusiasm about her new role, saying, “It’s not just about expanding my role—it’s a chance for personal growth.”
The programme has already seen its first batch of nine specialists, with an average tenure of nine years, complete their training and step into their expanded roles as of 1 October 2025.
