Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Head of Operations to, drive operational excellence and enabling the achievement of the Bank’s key business objectives. The successful candidate will oversee end-to-end operational functions within the Division, ensuring strategic digital transformation, operational efficiencies, a sound and future looking process universe, a sound risk and compliance environment, and superior customer experience. The incumbent will be expected to build and lead agile teams in a very dynamic environment, while closely collaborating with other business leaders in other areas of the Bank, including business segments, treasury, Dada and Analytics, Technology Services and Finance.Lead the operational strategy, aligning targets and budgets to the business plan while controlling costs across multiple functions to maximize efficiency.Deliver sustainable net profit growth through effective cost-to-income management and operational optimization.Oversee workforce planning and resource allocation, ensuring staffing and budget levels align with business requirements.Drive the implementation of differentiated client service models, systems, and processes that enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.Ensure compliance with all regulatory, legislative, audit, and governance requirements while implementing interventions that mitigate operational risks.Optimize business intelligence and process efficiency, analyzing data and trends to improve business decision-making.Champion operational efficiencies, continuously reviewing and improving processes, procedures, and workflow to achieve productivity targets.Collaborate with other business units to integrate processes, align strategies, and achieve overall business growth objectives.Lead people strategy initiatives, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and high performance while nurturing and developing talent.Hold direct reports accountable for implementing leadership strategies and ensuring the delivery of key business outcomes.Lead in the delivery and consumption of core banking platform, payments systems as well as fintech integrationsCollaborate closely with the Projects Management Office to ensure agile delivery of strategic projects.

Skills and Competencies

Strong strategic and commercial acumen with the ability to balance profitability and operational risk.Exceptional leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire, coach, and develop high-performing teams.Advanced problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with strong analytical and data interpretation skills.Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and influencing skills across all levels.Strong project management, process optimization, and change management capabilities.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Engineering or related. (Master’s degree in a Business field will be preferred).Minimum of 10 years’ experience in banking or financial services, with at least 5 years in a senior operational leadership role.Proven track record of driving operational transformation, cost efficiencies, and business growth.Proven experience in key areas of core banking operations, including payments and clearing, cash centre operations, lending operations, customer due diligence, process efficiencies and digital transformation.Strong knowledge of banking operations, governance, compliance, and regulatory frameworks.Experience in managing cross-functional teams and delivering large-scale business change initiatives.Customer-centric mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and service excellence.

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Job Details

Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below.
 

07/10/25

All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group’s Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.