Executive Operations SME

Job Summary

To lead and enable the SME Operations function to deliver on the segment’s strategic priorities through operational excellence, digitisation, and transformation.

This role shapes and influences the end-to-end operational ecosystem—including technology, digital, and process enablement—to ensure effective prioritisation, seamless execution, and measurable business impact within the SME segment.

The incumbent will drive a high-performance operations environment with a strong bias towards innovation, simplification, and client-centricity, ensuring that operational capabilities enhance banker productivity and deliver a differentiated client experience.

Functional Strategy

• Define and cascade the SME Operations strategy aligned to Business Banking and SME segment priorities
• Translate strategic intent into clear operational roadmaps, delivery plans, and measurable outcomes
• Ensure optimal allocation of resources to support execution of strategic priorities

Operational Excellence

• Lead the design, optimisation, and continuous improvement of SME operational processes and value chains
• Drive simplification, standardisation, and efficiency across operations to improve cost-to-serve and turnaround times
• Embed a culture of operational discipline, performance measurement, and continuous improvement

Transformation, Change & Programme Delivery

• Lead and orchestrate large-scale transformation initiatives across operations, digital, and technology enablement
• Influence prioritisation and execution of technology and digital initiatives into the SME business
• Ensure effective landing of change initiatives with minimal disruption and maximum adoption
• Drive digitisation and automation to enhance scalability, productivity, and client experience

Risk, Governance & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to Group Risk and Compliance frameworks within defined risk appetite
• Embed robust control environments and proactive risk management practices
• Oversee governance, reporting, and audit readiness across the operations function

Stakeholder Management & Integration

• Act as the key interface between SME, Product, Technology, Risk, and Operations teams
• Influence cross-functional prioritisation to ensure aligned delivery of SME outcomes
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including regulators and service providers

People Leadership

• Lead, develop, and inspire a team of ~80 colleagues to deliver high performance and engagement
• Build leadership capability, succession pipelines, and critical skills aligned to future-state operations
• Foster a culture of accountability, inclusion, and continuous development

Experience & Qualifications (Refined)

• Relevant Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) or equivalent
• 10–15 years’ experience in operations, including leading large, complex teams
• 3–5 years’ experience operating at a strategic/executive level, influencing enterprise-wide outcomes
• Proven track record in:
  • Driving large-scale operational transformation and digitisation
  • Leading change in complex, matrixed environments
  • Delivering measurable improvements in operational efficiency and client experience
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of SME/Business Banking operations

 

Education

Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Business, Commerce and Management Studies (Required)

Absa Bank Limited is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the Bank.

Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised