Cover Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Private Wealth Business Partner role at Elston. With over 13 years of experience in financial services, a proven track record of building and scaling operations, and a genuine passion for improving how businesses operate, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Elston's continued growth and success.

**From Advisory to Operations: A Natural Evolution**

Throughout my career, I have progressed from client-facing adviser to operational leader, and this role represents the natural next step in my professional journey. As Managing Director of Leapway Financial Consultants, I moved beyond direct advisory to focus on building strong operational foundations, improving processes, and scaling the business. This experience has given me deep insight into what it takes to support a growing business—not just delivering advice, but strengthening the systems, processes, and ways of working that enable sustainable growth.

**Operational Excellence & Business Improvement**

At Leapway, I implemented comprehensive process improvements that increased team productivity by 40% whilst maintaining rigorous compliance standards. I deployed a custom-built Pipedrive CRM system that integrated with our other systems to support our advice processes, managed the FMA licensing compliance project, and orchestrated the strategic sale and seamless transition to Lifetime Group. These experiences have equipped me with practical knowledge of how to build structure, improve operations, and support business initiatives that drive growth and efficiency.

I understand that the Private Wealth Business Partner role is about being a trusted partner to the business—someone who can work closely with stakeholders to strengthen internal processes, support day-to-day operations, and help build the foundations for scalable growth. This is precisely the type of work I find most rewarding.

**Stakeholder Management & Commercial Awareness**

My experience leading six merger and acquisition transactions has honed my ability to work confidently with senior stakeholders, navigate complex business challenges, and think commercially. I have consistently demonstrated strong attention to detail, a solutions-focused mindset, and the ability to balance operational detail with broader business initiatives. My approach is grounded in integrity, professional excellence, and a commitment to delivering tangible value.

**Commitment to Elston's Culture & Values**

Elston's emphasis on excellence, purpose, and genuine connection resonates strongly with my professional values. I am drawn to organisations that prioritise ongoing learning, trust, collaboration, and ownership—values that have guided my career throughout. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to contribute to purpose-aligned initiatives and to grow with a business that is committed to making a positive impact.

**Relocation & Commitment**

I am currently based in Auckland, New Zealand, and am actively considering relocation to Australia. I am fully committed to this opportunity and view it as an exciting next chapter in my career. I am confident that my experience, skills, and genuine enthusiasm for supporting business growth make me a strong fit for this role.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background in financial services operations, business improvement, and stakeholder management can contribute to Elston's continued success. Thank you for considering my application.

Yours sincerely,

**Johan Fritz** +64 21 082 48323 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/johan-fritz