Executive Operations SME

Absa Group

Lead SME Operations function within Absa to deliver on strategic priorities and ensure operational excellence through digitisation and innovation. Drive large-scale transformation initiatives and optimise operational processes.

Posted 5/24/2026full-timeSandton • 🇿🇦 South AfricaSeniorLeadWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead and enable the SME Operations function to deliver on the segment’s strategic priorities through operational excellence, digitisation, and transformation
Shape and influence the end-to-end operational ecosystem to ensure effective prioritisation, seamless execution, and measurable business impact
Drive a high-performance operations environment with a strong bias towards innovation, simplification, and client-centricity
Design, optimise, and continuously improve SME operational processes and value chains
Lead large-scale transformation initiatives across operations, digital, and technology enablement
Ensure adherence to Group Risk and Compliance frameworks within defined risk appetite
Act as the key interface between SME, Product, Technology, Risk, and Operations teams

Requirements

What you’ll need

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
Strong commercial acumen and understanding of SME/Business Banking operations

Benefits

Comp & perks

Health insurance
Retirement plans
Paid time off
Flexible work arrangements
Professional development

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

operational excellencedigitisationtransformationprocess optimisationvalue chain improvementrisk managementcompliance frameworksstrategic planninglarge-scale transformationclient-centricity

Soft Skills

leadershipinfluenceinnovationsimplificationcommercial acumenteam managementcommunicationprioritisationexecutioncollaboration

Certifications

Honours Degree (NQF Level 8)