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Introduction..................................................................... 1

Banking Careers

Actuary............................................................................ 3

ATM Technician............................................................... 6

Bank Teller....................................................................... 7

Bank Note Processor...................................................... 10

Call Centre Operator....................................................... 11

Chief Financial Officer..................................................... 13

Chartered Accountant..................................................... 16

Compliance Officer/Manager.......................................... 19

Credit Manager............................................................... 20

Credit and Loans Officer................................................. 22

Debt Counsellor/Advisor................................................. 24

Enterprise Architecture................................................... 26

Financial Planner / Advisor.............................................. 28

Foreign Exchange Officer................................................ 30

Home Loans Officer/ Bond Originator............................ 32

Infrastructure Security Specialist.................................... 34

Internal Auditor/ Forensic Investigator............................ 36

Investment Banker.......................................................... 38

IT Business Analyst........................................................ 41

Management Accountant............................................... 43

Project/Programme Manager......................................... 45

Risk Officer/Manager...................................................... 47

Risk Specialist................................................................ 49

Talent Specialist.............................................................. 51

Trade Settlement Specialist............................................ 53

Treasury Analyst............................................................. 54

Treasury Dealer............................................................... 56

Wealth Manager.............................................................. 58

Work-readiness Tips...................................................... 60

Interviews with the Professionals................................... 68

CONTENTS

*Salary scales are an estimate only and are based on entry level. These may vary depending on qualifications and experience.

You will soon be going out into the world and seeking employment. It will not be easy, but there are many options to consider and a career in banking is one of them. In today’s world, banking plays a crucial role in the economy and offers first-time job seekers many varied and interesting opportunities.

A bank is not only the place you go to save your money – it’s the place where many opportunities exist to start a career. At BANKSETA we are dedicated to helping you choose a career path that will be rewarding and exciting.

“Yes, but I don’t want to be a Teller”, you might say. Well, that is only a small part of the many different career paths you can choose from in the banking sector. And for many, a start in a clerical post or as a teller is the entry point to many other opportunities in banking. There are career opportunity paths in management, IT, accountancy, economics, research and communications to name a few. The worldwide growth in investment banking and specialised finance as well as asset management and private banking, has changed the face of banking. Banking is a serious and complex business and has developed a set of skills requirements that go far beyond the perception that banking as a career, is a ‘last resort’. Today, being a Bank Manager or Branch Manager has become a very skilled occupation, requiring

the integration of a wide range of diverse management and administrative functions. At the higher levels of Regional Heads, Chief Managers and General Managers, banks are increasingly looking for people to train and grow into these important, high-demand administrative positions.

Banking offers a secure future for any matriculant or graduate entering the world of money and finance. It is a very competitive sector which offers such a wide choice of careers, leadership skills, technical expertise and professional management development. So, take the time to read this booklet and each of the twenty eight career opportunities that the world of professional banking offers young people such as yourself, who are making a start in the world.

Another big part of the sector is microfinance. Microfinance companies provide basic financial services such as loans, savings, money transfer services and micro insurance. This is a growing industry in South Africa and we are dependent on the microfinance companies for job creation. Read more about some of the microfinance careers e.g. Credit and Loans Officer.

Look to the future. Look to a career in banking, you could surprise yourself.

Introduction“There is no passion to be found playing small in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living”. Nelson Mandela

Banking Careers

ActuaryCareer descriptionAn Actuary is a highly sought-after business professional who plays an important role in the banking, insurance and financial services industry. It is a career that requires exceptional mathematical capabilities and statistical aptitude, plus an active interest in figures and their interpretation in a business perspective. Actuaries use these applied skills in risk management and assessment in the health care industry and pension funds.

Work environmentActuaries are employed by life assurance companies, actuarial consultants and other financial institutions. Actuaries’ internationally recognised qualifications offer them greater security terms in of employment possibilities.

Personality profile• ProspectiveActuariesshouldbe of above-average intelligence• Theymusthaveaflairfor Mathematics and interpretation of statistics • Adisciplinedandmethodicalwork ethic

• Apersonwhoworksneatlyandaccurately• Actuariesshouldberesponsibleandreliable• Someonewhodisplaysthehigheststandardsof professional ethics and technical competence• Actuariesshouldhaveexcellentnegotiatingskills• Self-disciplineanddeterminationareneededtocopewith in-service training coupled with years of part-time studies • AnActuaryisafinancialproblem-solverwithauniqueblend of advanced mathematical, analytical and business skills • Actuarieshaveadeepunderstandingoffinancialsecurity systems, their reasons for being, their complexity, their Mathematics, and the way they function

Duties and responsibilities• Applicationofmathematicalskills,economicfactors, financial projections, probability implications, statistical inputs and market trends to manage risk across a broad spectrum of business activities• Designinganddevelopingproductssuchaslifeinsurance policies, annuities, pensions, mortgage and credit insurance, short and long term disability cover, plus medical and dental health savings accounts and long term care insurance •Determiningthebasisonwhichpremiumratesforpolicies are calculated•Calculatingthepay-outstopolicyholders

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• Continualmonitoringofoverallcompany/productviability and maintaining healthy ‘risk vs. returns’ ratios• Investigatinganychangesinlegislationaffectinglife assurance and pension schemes and making the necessary recommendations• Makingdecisions/recommendationsforlargepayments such as bonus declarations• Evaluatingandmonitoringliabilitiesinrespectofpolicies/ policyholders through application of an extensive, detailed and intricate analysis• Monitoringthefinancialsoundnessofthebusinessthey work for • Administrationandoptimisationofallinvestments• Compilingfutureestimationsbyinvestigatingtrendsin interestratesandmortalityrates,inflationaryimpactsand socio-economic factors • Developingspecialschemesofassurancetosuitspecific public and private sector requirements such as unemployment insurance and accident insurance funds

Consequently, Actuaries are essential to the insurance and reinsurance industry, as well as the healthcare, pensions, investment and financial services industry. Actuaries also play a vital role in providing insights for marketing and administration functions in these market segments.

Qualifications • BBusScinActuarialScience• BComminActuarialScience• BEconScinActuarialScienceandMathematicalStatistics• BEconScinEconomicScienceandActuarialScience• BScinActuarialScience

Study pathway• VariousSouthAfricanuniversitiesofferrecogniseddegree courses in Actuarial Science – search for these courses using SASTUDY’s unique courses tool• Candidateswhoprefernottofollowarecognised degree in Actuarial Science are strongly advised to include in their university curriculum at least Mathematics I, Accounting I, Economics I and Mathematical Statistics III. Other recommended subjects are Mathematics III, Business Economics, Applied Mathematics and Computer Science • Thesesubjectswillprovidethebackgroundthatstudents will need later in their careers • TheinclusionofMathematicalStatisticsasamajormay possibly enable students to obtain an exemption from part of the professional examinations, but students are again advised to discuss possible exemptions with the relevant university• WritetheProfessionalExaminationsoftheInstituteand

Faculty. The Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA) is the professional organisation for Actuaries and actuarial students in South Africa. Actuaries may perform certain statutory work in South Africa only if they are fellow members of ASSA. Most South Africans qualify by writing the professional examinations of the Institute of Actuaries (London) and Faculty of Actuaries (Edinburgh) • ThesejointexaminationsaresatinSouthAfrica,andASSA administers them in centres in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Namibia. (The ASSA Council offers an internationally recognised actuarial qualification that is based on local conditions, as well as regulatory and legislative requirements).

Actuaries need to be well informed regarding international financial and economic trends. They also need to have expert knowledge of business management and investment instruments and opportunities.

Sustainability of the career Actuaries are in short supply worldwide and the need for their skills is growing exponentially.• Actuariesareamongstthecriticalandscarceoccupations of the economy

• Therearemanyvariedopportunitiesintheassurance, insurance, health, investment and financial services industries

Where you can find employment • Bankingandfinancialservicessectorsaswellasmost large corporations• Lifeassurancecompanies• Actuarialconsultants• Otherfinancialinstitutions• Retirementbenefitfunds• MedicalAidSocietiesandsimilarHealthcareschemes• Investmentconsultancy(e.g.Assetmanagementcompany)• Marketing(Lifeassurancepolicies,benefitschemes, pension brokering)

Possibilities for self-employmentActuaries can act as private consultants

Salary rangeR 198 984 – R 1 210 716 p.a.

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ATM TechnicianCareer descriptionThe Automated Teller Machine (ATM) Specialist is responsible for the management and technical support operations of a bank’s ATM machines and related devices and interfaces. An ATM Service Manager is responsible for managing a dedicated group of field service engineers in a defined geographical area.

Work environment• Travelformsanintegralpartofyourworkeveryday.You work everywhere where ATMs are found• Youusuallyhavetoworkshiftsandneedtobeavailablefor standby 24/7• Flexibleworkinghours

Personality profile• Someonewhoenjoysworkingwithcomputerized, mechanical and electronic systems and equipment• Doesnotmindtravellingandflexibleworkinghours• Workseasilyunderpressure• Self-motivated,canworkwithoutsupervision• Goodcommunicationsskills• Professionalappearanceandmanner• Physicallystrongandagile

Duties and responsibilities• ATMTechniciansservice,diagnose,repairandinstallATM machines in a specific area • ATMFieldTechnicianstraveltoATMsiteswherethey diagnose problems and then resolve/fix these on-site, or remove the machine and take it back to their workshop for analysis and repair by ATM Bench Technicians• Typically,anATMTechnicianwoulduseequipmentsuchas multimeters, diagnostic software and hand tools to fix faulty ATM machines which have problems such as worn card readers and malfunctioning cash dispensing systems

Qualifications • Matric• A+(advantageous)• NationalDiplomainElectricalEngineeringisabonus• StudiestowardsanMCSEadvantageous• AvalidDrivers’License

Study pathway• Twoyears’experienceincomputerhardwareandsoftware• MSOfficeproficiency/courses(e.g.MCSE)

Sustainability of the careerThere are many positions available for ATM Technicians

Where you can find employment • Banks• FinancialServicecompanies

Possibilities for self-employmentLimited

Salary rangeR 84 000 – R 108 000 p.a.

Bank TellerCareer descriptionBeing a Bank Teller or cashier is a much more important position than most people realise. In addition, South Africa’s banking system is highly sophisticated and is one of the best in the world. It is a fast-moving, hi-tech environment and one which requires tellers to be constantly on their toes.

Bank Tellers are the frontline of the banking business and are the primary members of staff who deal directly with the public on a daily basis, handling a wide range of banking transactions. These include routine banking transactions like deposits and withdrawals. They are also most likely to prevent losses as they are the first to detect fraudulent transactions, counterfeit bank notes and bad cheques. Bank Tellers must have comprehensive knowledge about the bank’s products and services and the ability to direct customers to the appropriate department for assistance. For many people, Bank Tellers are iconic figures, since they represent the face of the bank to the public.

Work environmentBank Tellers work in an office-like environment usually within a centre. They do not travel for their work and are usually allocated to a specific area within the bank itself. Individuals wishing to prepare for a banking career or develop additional

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skills and expertise to further their banking careers can pursue, among other credentials, their Bank Teller, team leader, supervisor, or call centre certificate. Certificate programmes offered by various BANKSETA accredited training providers and most of the Further Education and Training (FET) and Higher Education providers are designed to provide training and preparation for specific positions within the banking industry.

A BComm degree with specialisation in economics, accounting, finance, book keeping is very helpful in this field. One may also go for an MBA and or an equivalent degree. Computer knowledge is required, especially data entry and other programmes which deal with transactions.

Personality profile• ABankTellerneedstohaveexceptionalinterpersonaland communications skills• MostimportantlyaTellerisapersonwhoneedstohave an affinity for figures and the ability to perform basic math functions (numeracy)• AllBankTellerjobsrequiremoneyhandlingcapabilities• Afriendlydispositionandabilitytolistentocustomersand understand their requirements• Theabilitytoregularlyworkunderpressure• Abilitytomaintainaneventemperwhendealingwith difficult or unhappy customers

• Honestyandintegrityisakeypersonalattributeaswellas the ability to maintain customer confidentiality (a criminal and credit check is usually performed as part of the recruitment process)• Mustalsobecomfortablewithmembersofthepublicand with handling large amounts of money• Thecapacitytobeattentiveanddiscreet

Duties and responsibilities• Foremostisthehandlingofallmoneytransactions, primarily deposits and withdrawals of all types• Theissuingofnegotiableitemslikecashier’scheques, traveller’s cheques, money orders, drafts, and the like• Activelypromotingthebank’sproductsandservicessuch as loans, mortgages, retirement accounts and insurance• Resolvingallbasiccustomersenquiriesand/orinforming them of any additional requirements/referring them to the right person or department• Keepinganaccuratetransactionbalanceattheirtillstation and ensuring that all monies are accounted for• Orderingcustomerchequebooksanddepositbooks• Facilitatingtransactionsrelatedtosavingsaccounts• Providingaccesstosafedepositboxes

Qualifications• Matric/SeniorCertificateisthepreferredqualification• Recommendedschoolsubjects:Mathematicsand Accounting

Study pathway• TraineeTellersundergoin-servicetraining.Thebank’s own Teller courses, and also practical training observing experienced Tellers• Aswithallbankstaff,Tellersareencouragedtotake responsibility for their own careers • Tellerswhowanttobepromotedcandoadditionaltraining courses or self-study modules• IfTellersimprovetheirqualificationsandtheirworkis satisfactory, they can be taken into consideration for promotion• Tellerswhoreceivetertiaryand/orspecialisedtrainingin the banking industry, can be promoted to a supervisory or specialist management position• CertificateprogrammesofferedbyvariousBANKSETA accredited training providers and most of the FET and Higher Education providers, are designed to provide training and preparation for specific positions within the banking industry

• Individualswishingtoprepareforabankingcareeror develop additional skills and expertise to further their banking careers can pursue, among other credentials, their bank teller, team leader, supervisor, or call centre certificate

Sustainability of the careerEmployment in this profession is actually shrinking, because the industry has turned to Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and online banking since they find these services more convenient for many of their customers and is a more cost effective manner of doing business.

Where you can find employment • Banks• CashTransfercompanies• Travel/ForexExchanges

Possibilities for self-employmentThis career does not directly lead to self-employment, although the skills acquired by Tellers in the course of their duties are often crucial in the running of a small business.

Salary rangeR 35 600 - R 83 660 p.a.

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Bank Note ProcessorCareer descriptionThe Bank Note Processor is responsible for ensuring that all bank notes are issued and disposed of, according to the regulations and policies of the South African Reserve Bank.

Work environmentFocus on security and quality.

Personality profile• Someonewhopaysattentiontodetail• Anabilitytoconcentrateandremainfocused• Musthavebasictechnicalskills• Adiligentandalertperson• Tactileskills

Duties and responsibilities• Preparationofbanknotesreceivedfromfinancial institutions• Tidyingofbanknotebundlesbeforecountingonthe machine• Runningbanknotesonthemachineforqualitychecking• Manualandmachine-checkingandsortingofre-issuable bank notes• Identifyingandshreddingofunusablebanknotes

• Bundlebanknotesaccordingtotherequiredstandards• Ensuresafekeepingofthebanknotes• Checkingforcounterfeitbanknotes• Alladministrativedutiesforbanknotesasperthe South African Reserve Bank requirements.

QualificationsMatric

Study pathwayThis career is usually trained in-service as the machinery being used is specialised.

Sustainability of the careerAlmost ten percent of the workforce of the South African Reserve Bank is made up of Note Processors.

Where you can find employment • SouthAfricanReserveBank• Largefinancialinstitutions

Call Centre OperatorCareer descriptionThe Call Centre Business in South Africa is growing by leaps and bounds, placing the country in the ‘preferred’ category of service providers internationally. With this success there is a growing demand for Call Centre Agents and Managers. These are the people that play a vital role communicating between customers and the various businesses and brands they represent. Not only do Call Centre Agents answer and resolve customer queries and complaints for a host of products and services, they are an important link in the marketing channel and customer services operations of the companies they work for.

Work environmentThis is a busy environment where your role is important to the team to make sure that deadlines and targets are met.

Personality profile• IdeallyaCallCentreAgentshouldpossessverygood communication and interpersonal skills• Mustbewell-versedintherequiredlanguage• Courtesyandtelephoneetiquettecannotbeoverstatedand are vital to good customer feedback • Beingabletoworkshifts(oftenafterhours)isaprerequisite for the job • Understandingofwhatcustomerserviceentails• Typingskillsandcomputerliteracy

• Abilitytohandlestress• Afriendly,positivedisposition

Duties and responsibilities• Answeringincomingcallsfromcustomerswithparticular inquiries, questions, complaints, service queries or problems• Encouragingcustomerinterestintheproductsandservices offered by the business concerned• Updatingtheexistingdatabase,bothintermsofpersonal customer details, as well as recording the current customer status and motivating prospective customers to become active • Assistingcustomersdirectly,eitherface-to-face, electronically, or telephonically by responding promptly and efficiently • ProvidingregularfeedbacktotheCustomerService Departments of the companies the call centre represents, on the effectiveness and soundness of their policies and procedures• CollectingandcollatinginformationCallCentreAgents pick up during their engagement with customers, for market intelligence purposes and to identify opportunities and trends• Categorisingtheproblemsandissuesofcustomersinorder to monitor the manner in which they were handled, so

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that solutions and enhancements can be made to resolve these satisfactorily• Whereoutboundcallsareinvolved,beingabletomake sales and add brand value to the associated product or service

Qualifications• Matric• AdditionalCallCentrecourses/qualificationsare advantageous • Theskillsandeducationalrequirementsdifferfromprofileto profile

Study pathway • MatricCertificate• On-the-jobtraining(CallCentres)• Variouscallcentrecourses

Sustainability of the career• ManydifferentcareeropportunitiesexistintheCallCentre industry• Recentadvancesintechnologyhavegivenbirthtoan incredible job opportunity for communication professionals• TheseincludeCallCentreExecutive,CustomerRelations Manager (CRM), team leader, Call Centre Manager and many technical posts

• Itisagrowingindustryinanincreasinglycommunications- orientated world• Howeverasinanyothercareer,beawareofthechallenges, risks and career growth potential

Where you can find employment• AwideselectionofcommercialCallCentresincludingBank Call Centres• GovernmentdepartmentalCallCentres• In-companyCallCentres

Possibilities for self-employmentLimited - none


Chief Financial OfficerCareer descriptionThe Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is the guardian of a company’s finances, its regulatory compliance and its general financial soundness. In his or her hands lies the wellbeing of the entire company and its employees. Besides overseeing the company’s accounting procedures and monitoring all administrative and control procedures, the Chief Financial Officer is also accountable legally for meeting all the fiduciary requirements of the company.

The CFO is a member of senior management and often also a director of the company. It is his or her job to ensure that the business operates profitably and that the assets and resources of the company, its processes and business relationships are neither wasteful nor fraudulent in any way. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the CFO is the next most important person in thecompanyandwieldsgreat influenceonstrategyand tactical decision making

Work environmentHigh stress levels and long working hours

Personality profile• Exceptionalfinancialandaccountingskills• Excellentinterpersonalandleadershipskills

• Someonewhoisnotafraidofresponsibility• Anabilitytoseethebiggerpicture,whilstwatchingthe detail• Abletocommunicatecomplexissuesinanunderstandable way• Ateamplayer• Abletoconfrontissues• Problemsolvingabilities• Goodwithpeople• Isvisiondriven• Deadlinedriven• Attentiontodetail• Abilitytoworkindependentlyandunderpressure• Self-starter• Enthusiasticandenergetic• Strongverbalwrittencommunicationskills• Strongrelationshipbuildingandinterpersonalskills• Goodsenseofjudgmentandtheexercisingthereof• Networkingability• Advancednegotiatingandinfluencingskills• Goodfollowthrough(completer-finisher)

Duties and responsibilities• Mappingandmonitoringoftheactivitiesofdifferent departments of the company• Carryingoutoperationalauditproceduresacrossall

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operational cycles• Identifyingandrectifyingweaknessesininternalcontrol procedures• Continualassessmentoftheadequacyofaccounting, financial and operating controls• Introducingsolutionsandrecommendationstoimprove performance and mitigate associated risks• Toconductefficiencyassessmentsandtogaugethe effectivenessofthebusiness,includingworkflow,flowof documents, internal control procedures, application systems and reporting requirements• Highlightingmaterialerrorsintheaccountsandassessing compliance with established procedures and laws• Ensuringthatcompanyprocessesandproceduresmeetthe required standards and outcomes, and providing the required interventions where necessary• Communicatinganddiscussingsignificantfindings, suggestions and recommendations with concerned employees and obtaining feedback thereon• Safeguardingthecompany’sresourcesandassetsagainst misuse or misappropriation• Oversightofthepreparationoffinancialstatementsbythe accounting officers and presentation of these to the board• Tomanageandguideaccountingpolicyandprocedures• Guidinganddevelopingcorporatestrategywiththe management team• Analysingperformancedatasoastosupportintelligent

decision making• Maintainingdirectcontroloffinancialaffairs• Responsibleforallregulatorycompliance• Oversightofinternalcontrols,costingandriskassessment• Controllingfinancialaccounting/analysis,budgetary compliance & cost control• Oversightofassets/liabilities/investments/cash management and transaction banking services• Communicationandinterpersonalnetworking,team building, decision making, group dynamics and leveraging synergy• DevelopmentandimplementationoftherequisiteIT skills, general computer literacy, core banking applications, web applications and accounting packages

Qualifications • CA(SA)orequivalentessential(NQFlevel7)• Bachelor’sdegree/higherdiploma• BCommACISACMA• Preferablyfollowwithanhonoursdegree• Bachelor’sdegree/higherdiploma

Study pathway• FollowUniversitydegree(s)• Minimumthreeyears’commercialexperience• Experienceinamanagementrolewouldbeanadvantage

• AdvancedknowledgeofMSOffice(Word,Excel,Outlook, and PowerPoint)• ITSkills-corebankingapplications,webapplications& accounting packages.

Sustainability of the careerThis is a sought-after position in every sector of the economywhere you can find employment • Bankingandrelatedsectors• Allmajorsectorsofcommerceandindustry

Possibilities for self-employment• Startingafinancialadvisorycompany• Consulting


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Chartered AccountantCareer descriptionAccounting is the practice of how businesses track their income, expenditure and assets over time. There is a degree of specialisation within the profession, but broadly, all Accountants provide the financial and administrative backbone that allows companies to trade profitably. The accountancy field is divided intothreebroadareas:auditing,financial/taxandmanagementaccounting. However, there are areas of commonality each of thesesub-categoriesshare:• Preparingfinancialstatementsandrecordingbusiness transactions• Computingcostsandefficiencygainsfromnew technologies• Developingstrategiesformergersandacquisitions• Implementingandmaintainingqualitymanagement standards• Developingandusinginformationsystemstotrackfinancial performance• Developingtaxstrategies• Creatinginvestmentstrategies• Healthcarebenefitsmanagement

Work environmentChartered Accountants work in registered firms or with practising Chartered Accountants. When qualified they may wish to remain with the firms where articles were served and look forward to

eventual partnerships. They work in commerce and industry and in the academic world as lecturers.

Personality profile• Tobesuccessfulqualitiessuchasintegrity,intelligence, good judgement, a strong analytical predisposition and determination are needed • Itisalsonecessarytobeabletoworkandconvey recommendations both clearly and accurately • Attentiontodetail,strongbusinessacumenand mathematical abilities are all important in individuals embarking on a career in this field

Duties and responsibilities • Preparingandreportingonfinancialstatementsforclient management, shareholders and the media • Providingclientswithadviceonfinancialmatters,taxation, accounting and computer systems, estate planning and management reporting and procedures• Acceptingappointmentstoactasexecutors,liquidators, trustees or curators• Compilingreportsonaspectsofmanagement,foruseby the client in improving the management of the company • Investigatingtheaccountingmethodsadoptedbyclients and making recommendations for the improvement thereof• Advisingclientsoncomputerhardwareandsoftware

requirements and assisting with installation and implementation of computerised systems and financial models• Providingclientswithtaxplanning• Providingoversightandadvicetoclientsonallaspectsof mercantile and company law• Performingstatutoryaudits• Supplyingofmanagementadviceservices,taxadvice services and advice about information technology

Duties and responsibilities • Preparingfinancialstatementsformanagement, shareholders and the media• Providingmanagementwithfunctionalrecommendations on financial matters, taxation, accounting and computer systems• Managementreportingandmonitoringofprocedures• Implementingappropriateaccountingmethods• Installationofcomputerisedsystemsandprogrammes• Managingthecompany’staxexposurewiththeauditors• Ensuringcompliancewithalllegalrequirementsrelatingto mercantile and company law• Maintainingcontroloverthefundsandassetsofthe company or institution• Preparationoffinancialormanagementreportsfortop management and the interpretation thereof in order to

increase efficiency and profitability• Asanaccountantincommerceandindustry,(e.g.the financial or mining sector) performing a range of duties including:• Managementinformation• Financialreporting• Internalcontrol• Taxmatters• Assetmanagement

Qualifications• BCommDegreeorequivalent(NQFLevel6)• CharteredAccountant• CIMA• MComm(Tax)• MComm(ComputerAuditing)

Study pathway• Whilststudyingyouwillcommenceservingyour‘articles’ as a junior member of a team responsible for auditing an important account or preparing financial statements • Itisimportantthenthatyouenjoyworkingaspartofateam and that you learn to do so in your education.

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Sustainability of the career• Exceptionalopportunitiesawaitthequalifiedyoung accountant today. The potential for the best Accountants to be promoted in their organisations - whether it be to partner in a public accounting firm or controller/CFO in a corporation, is substantial.• Thisisparticularlytrueofthosecandidateswhohavethe ability to interact well with people. Candidates who develop relationships with their clients, or in corporations, with their management team and with colleagues at all levels in the organisation, rise rapidly through the ranks. The prospects are excellent• ThescopeforaCharteredAccountantiswideopen,both in commerce and in consulting. Whether they remain with the firms where articles were served and look forward to eventual partnerships, or join consulting firms or auditing practices, or seek academic posts, it is a career offering much promise

Where you can find employment • Companies,corporationsandorganisationseverywhere• Thefinancialservicessector• Thepublicsector

Possibilities for self-employment• CharteredAccountantswiththerequisiteexperiencemay start private practices• TheycanenterintopartnershipswithotherChartered Accountants • Theymayalsostartbusinessesinthecommercialand industrial arena• Orasanindependentconsultantofferingmanagement,tax or IT advice


Compliance Officer/ManagerCareer descriptionThe importance of compliance requires full-time management in today’s modern enterprise systems. Ensuring that all legislative requirements are met, not only in existing operations, but in all development processes and expansion projects is key to smooth and trouble-free operations. The Compliance Officer needs to manage a difficult and demanding enterprise enablement and has to deal firmly with deadline requirements, non-compliance and related issues across all aspects of the enterprise.

Work environmentA stressful environment with multiple deadline requirements. Continual requirement to balance compliancy requirements against business pressures.

Personality profile• Goodbusinessacumen• Abletohandleimmensepressure

Duties and responsibilities• Embeddingacompliancecultureintheenterprise• Providingtheenterprisewithguidanceinrelationto legislative requirements and regulations• Managingofallcomplianceprocessesandrequirements and reporting to senior management

• Reportingonnon-complianceandanyprocessdeviations to senior management• InteractingwithinternalandexternalbodiessuchasRisk Management, Internal Audit, Legal Services regulations and industry bodies

QualificationsBComm (Hons) plus articles

Study pathwayFollow tertiary qualification


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Credit ManagerCareer descriptionThe Credit Manager is accountable for the entire credit granting process, including the consistent application of a credit policy, periodic credit reviews of existing customers, and the assessment of the creditworthiness of potential customers. It is a fast-paced office environment with frequent travel requirements, often on short notice to conduct urgent negotiations. Occasional overtime may be necessary.

Work environmentA fast-paced office environment. Expected to travel to customer locations on short notice to conduct negotiations. Occasional overtime may be necessary.

Personality profile• Someonewhocandealfirmlybutcourteouslywith defaulting customers• Beingagoodjudgeofcharacter• Apropensityforfiguresandwhattheymean• Abletomaintainapleasantdemeanourunderpressure• Strongadministrativeandevaluationabilities• Beingabletosay‘No’whennecessary• Theabilitytomakeinsightfuldecisions

Duties and responsibilities• CreditManagersareresponsibleformaximisinggoodcredit customers and minimising bad debts• Motivateandmentorthecreditandcollectionsstaff• Measure/motivatedepartmentalperformance• On-goingtrainingofthecreditandcollectionsstaff• Managerelationshipswithcollectionagencies• Managerelationshipswithcreditreportingagencies• Managerelationshipswithcreditinsuranceproviders Credit Operations• Implementandmaintainthecorporatecreditpolicy• Recommendchangesinthecreditpolicytosenior management• Managecustomercreditfilesandcreateacreditscoring model• Monitorthecreditgrantingandupdatingprocess• Acceptorrejectthestaff’scredit-grantingrecommendations• Personallyinvestigatethelargercustomercredit applications• Personallyvisitlargercustomerstofosterrelationships• Conductperiodiccreditreviews

Qualifications• Matric • BCommandexperiencewithcreditscoringsystems• InstituteofCreditManagementCertificate(ICM),Threepart

course.• Athoroughknowledgeofcredit-relatedlaw• Haveconsiderablenegotiatingexperience• Fiveplusyearsofcreditexperience

Study pathwayBesides either fulltime or part-time study for BA business qualification, the following is advantageous to any aspiring creditmanager:Institute of Credit Management Certificate (ICM)• TheICMcourseisavailableatmanyTechnikonsand private colleges, either by attending lectures or through correspondence. Entry requirements may differ and should be confirmed with the institution concerned. Students must also confirm the accreditation or otherwise, of Technikons and private institutions with the ICM • Aprerequisiteofanyenrollingstudentistofirstregister with the ICM which has a compulsory membership and examination fee • ExaminationscanbewrittenduringJuneandNovemberof a calendar year • TheICMistheonlyexaminingbodyforcreditmanagement in Southern Africa• TheICMisaprofessionalbodyanddoesnotofferface- to-face classes or distance learning in any subject. It is only responsible for determining the standards of the various courses and syllabi offered by Technikons and

recognised private institutions of learning• Someoftheprivatecollegespreparestudentsforthe ICM’s exams and present their own courses at the same time. Students should ensure that they enrol for the right course and that it carries credits when enrolling for other courses at other institutions of learning

Sustainability of the career• Credit management is a high-demand career• Thefieldisvariedandyoucanfindemploymentinmost sectors of the economy

Where you can find employment • Thebankingsector• Financecompanies• Largecorporations

Possibilities for self-employmentExperience can lead to many forms of self- employment and consulting


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Credit and Loans OfficerCareer descriptionA Loan Officer assists prospective clients in applying for loans and in determining the type and amount of loan that is most suitable for their needs. The Loan Officer also assesses the creditworthiness of loan applicants, judging their suitability as borrowers and the precise terms on which credit may be granted to them. A Consumer Loans Officer is most likely to work set hours from a fixed location like a bank branch or office. A Commercial or Mortgage Loan Officer often has to work variable hours to confer with clients at their places of work or residence, and thus spends significant time out of the office and on the road.

Work environmentA Consumer Loans Officer will work set hours from a fixed location, such as a bank branch or office. A Commercial or Mortgage Loan Officer often has to work variable hours to confer with clients at their places of work or residence, and thus spend significant time out of the office and on the road.

Personality profile• Exceptionalcommunicationandinterpersonalskills• Beingabletodealprofessionallywithcreditapplicants, especially those whose applications are declined• Theabilitytodealcompassionatelybutfirmlywithdefaulters

• Abletoprospectfornewclientswhilstunderpressureto perform• Ateamplayer• Abilitytobegraciousindifficultcircumstances• Strongworkethic

Duties and responsibilities• TheCreditandLoansOfficerisprimarilyconcernedwith meeting client needs for credit, reviewing client creditworthiness and facilitating the process once an application is approved• Analyseandevaluatefinancialinformationonapplications for credit/loans to determine level of client credit-worthiness • Maketimeousrecommendationsforapproval/rejectionof applications to management • Interviewloanapplicantsandobtainallthenecessary documents and information to make a loan decision• Explainalltherelevantpoliciesandlawsconnectedtocredit (such as the National Credit Act) to all applicants for loans/ credit• Maintaincurrentandproperrecords• ALoansOfficermayalsobeexpectedtomarketthebank’s services and pro-actively seek out clients, rather than passively waiting for loan/credit applications

QualificationsMatric

Study pathway• Self-developmentofcomputerskillsandknowledgeof relevant software• Knowledgeofoperationofstandardofficeequipment• Knowledgeofclericalandadministrativeproceduresand systems such as filing and record keeping• Knowledgeofprinciplesandpracticesofbasicoffice management

What is the career potential?• Thereisafairamountofworkavailableinthisfieldandcan leadtocareersin:• Financialservicesbranchmanager• Commoditybroker• AccountManagerforprivateclients• AccountManagerforwholesaleclients

Where you can find employment: • Bankingsector• HomeLoansFinancingCompanies

Possibilities for self-employmentYou will need to register as a Financial Service Provider.


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Debt Counsellor/Debt AdvisorCareer description Debt Counsellors assist clients who have high debt burdens, to formulate a ‘plan of settlement’ to retire their debt and retain a good credit record. The Debt Counsellor needs to spend face-to-face time with clients and to have access to all client records in order to evaluate the extent of a client’s debt burden. Once this process is complete, then the Debt Counsellor will assist the client in putting a ‘plan of settlement’ in place.

Work environmentConsulting clients, face-to-face

Personality profile• Asolidfinancialbackgroundisessential• Exceptionalinterpersonalskillsisapre-requisite• Someonewhodoesnotmindworkingunusualhoursand travelling extensively• Anexcellentandconvincingnegotiator• Goodknowledgeofalltherelevantactsincludingthe National Credit Act and Consumer Protection Act• Anempatheticnature• Clear-cutethicsintermsofconfidentiality

Role of the Debt Counsellor• Toassessandreviewaclient’sdebtburden• Toassistindrawingupasettlementplanacceptableto creditors• Tomanageandensurethatpaymentsaremaderegularly and timeously as per the agreement reached with creditors• Soundjudgementisaprerequisite

Duties and responsibilities • Obtainingclientpermissionfordebtreview• Assessingtheextentofclient’sdebtburden• Providingoptionsforanagreementofsettlementwith creditors• Negotiatingsuitabletermswithcreditors• Ensuringthatclients’sticktotheirdebtpaymentterms

Qualifications• Thereareseveralshortcoursesavailable• Afinancialcourseisastrongrecommendation

Study pathway• Completeavailablecourses

Sustainability of career• SouthAfricahaspassedintolawseveralnewActsinterms of credit (and specifically concerning debt) in the last few years. One of these Acts – the National Credit Act, has been responsible for creating a new career opportunity as Debt Counsellors• Growthinthissectorindicatesaverygoodfuturefor anyone entering this field

Where you can find employment • Bankingsector• PrivateDebtCounsellingcompanies

Possibilities for self-employmentBecome an independent Debt Counsellor.

Salary rangeIn the private sector your income is often on a commission basis.

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Enterprise ArchitectureCareer descriptionThe Enterprise Architect has a responsibility for ensuring the completeness (fitness-for-purpose) of the IT Architecture of the organisation. This is achieved by addressing all the pertinent concerns of stakeholders and connecting all the various views of the organisation to each other. This facilitates consensus amongst stakeholders and allows practical trade-offs, such as between security and performance.

The Enterprise Architect is also responsible for the overall management of the process that determines the technology direction to support the business. This would include the development of a technology infrastructure plan encompassing aspects such as systems, technology platforms, network architecture and acquisition plans. It would also encompass standards, migration strategies and contingency aspects of the technology infrastructure. In other words, creating an infrastructure that is able to support the required products, services and delivery mechanisms of the enterprise.

Work environmentAn Enterprise Architect does not create the technical vision of the enterprise, but has professional relationships with executives of the enterprise to gather and articulate the technical vision, and to produce the strategic plan for realising it. This plan is always tied to the business plans of the enterprise, and design

decisions are traceable to the business plan. This often leads to conflictandstress.

Personality profile• AnEnterpriseArchitectmustbeproficientinITSystems Design and the ability to create solutions to complex business problems• Abilitytocommunicateideaseffectivelyandpromote internal education within the organisation• UnderstandingofOrganisationalScience• Analyticalandproblemsolvingabilities• Conflictresolution/consensusbuildingabilities• Openmindedness• Vision• Abilitytohandlestress

Duties and responsibilities • Understandingandinterpretingorganisationalrequirements• Probingforinformation,listeningtoopinionsandgathering information in order to translate ideas into action• Identifyingthepurpose,constraintsandrisksofenterprise solutions• DevelopingtheITArchitecturespecificationfromthe ‘requirements understanding’ • TakingresponsibilityforoverallITArchitecturereliability• Ensuringthatleverageopportunitiesareidentifiedand

utilised, especially between development and marketing activities in the organisation• Guidingwhatshouldbedonewithintheorganisation,or outside the organisation• Validating,refiningandexpandingtheITArchitecture through expert consultants, feedback from fieldwork and evaluation of efficiency and effectiveness • Continuouslymonitorthearchitectureasan“agentof change”

Qualifications• Fouryeardegreeincomputerscience(BCompSc)• Degreeinsystemsanalysis

Study pathwayCompletion of tertiary studies

Sustainability of the careerThere are many opportunities in this field

Where you can find employment • Bankingsector• Insuranceindustry• Mostcorporateenvironments

Possibilities for self-employment• ProjectManagementservice• Consulting


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Financial Planner/AdvisorCareer descriptionOne of the most important and respected careers in banking is that of the Financial Planner or Advisor. This is the person that helps bank customers plan their financial affairs and advises them on the best way to take care of their money. It is an important, senior management and customer relations advisory position in all banks around the world today and is a highly paid job that requires a professional qualification. Becoming a Financial Planner or Advisor in the banking sector offers a lot of scope for graduates entering the banking profession. These are the people who offer financial advice to private banking clients, to companies, multinationals, investors and even governments.

Work environmentFor corporate clients the Financial Planner advises on asset investments, works to develop & improve the available finance products, measures the associated finance risk in investments and judges the finance market flow. This includes planningeffective finance strategies and finance investment plans, as well as providing the strategies and mechanisms for business acquisitions, mergers or new ventures.

For individual clients the main role of the Financial Planner or Advisor is to help the bank’s clients to effectively manage their financial affairs. This can include maintaining a balance between a client’s earnings, assets and investments at an acceptable

risk level. But it can also involve providing clients with advice regarding strategic decisions on what stocks, bonds or mutual funds to invest in.

Personality profile• Goodinterpersonalabilities,experienceofhandlingfinance projects and management skills are the required qualities of a finance advisor• Goodcommunicationskills• Aprovenrecordofactinginthebestinterestsofthe investor• Mustpossessthenecessaryfinancialknowledgein insurance, retirement accounts, tax services and financing accounts• MustberegisteredasaFinancialAdvisorwiththe necessary authorities• Trustworthy• Objective

Duties and responsibilities • Helpingclientsdeveloptheirshorttermandlongterm financial goals• Providingclientswiththerightadviceandplanning strategies to achieve those goals• Advisingclientsontheirspreadofinvestments,suchas their share portfolios, real estate investments, mutual fund

holdings and venture capital projects • Helpingclientseffectivelymanagetheirassets,investments and business ventures • Evaluatingandadvisingclientsontheirfinancialposition, asset management, investment strategies, insurance planning, tax planning, estate planning and succession planning for businesses• Advisingclientsonnewventuresandprojectstheywould like to undertake• Helpingclientsbalancetheirinvestmentneedsagainsttheir cash requirements for day-to-day expenses• Ensuringthatclientsarefullyawareoftherisksinvolvedin making any investment decision, business decision or asset acquisition

Qualifications• AminimumofaBachelor’sdegreeinFinancialAccounting• Additionally,anMBAand/oraCPAisadvisable

Study pathway• Followtertiaryqualification• Acquireadditionalqualifications-MBAand/orCPA

Sustainability of the career• FinancialPlanninglieswithinthecriticalandscarceskills sector of the economy

• Therearemanyvariedopportunitiesandashortageof qualified candidates

Where you can find employment• Banks• Insuranceindustry• Majorcorporations

Possibilities for self-employment?• Therearevariouspossibilitiesintheconsultingfield


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Foreign Exchange OfficerCareer descriptionThe foreign exchange market is the largest in the world, with a trading volume that exceeded US$4 trillion in 2010. The Foreign Exchange Officer facilitates a personal service allowing businesses and individuals to convert one currency to another at the set currency exchange rates. Foreign exchange consultants assist clients in understanding and capitalising on foreign currency markets by giving their clients information on exchange rates and insights into global markets. They make forecasts, provide in-depth analysis of markets and make trade recommendations based on their findings.

Work environment• Mainlyinteractingwithclientsandotherstaff• Usuallylocatedinmainstreamshoppingcentresand banking areas

Personality profile• Afriendlydispositionandmannerwiththecustomers• In-depthknowledgeofforeignexchangeandrelevant legislation• Abilitytoworkunderpressure,oftenforlonghours,on weekends and even during public holidays• Apositivedemeanourandabilitytoremaincalmand focused with unhappy or frustrated customers

• Goodwithnumbersandabilitytocalculateandrespond quickly• Honestyandintegrityisparamountaswellastheutmost confidentiality• Intelligent,alert,diligentandthorough

Duties and responsibilities• Maintainingarecordofthebank’sfundsondeposit (position) in foreign banks• Monitoringoutstanding(future)purchaseandsales contracts• Listingcashtotalsintheholdoverregister,postingnet balances to daily position reports and determining the revised position for the bank• Reviewingrecordstodeterminewhenbalancesneed replenishing• Calculatingnetbalancesandinformingtradingpersonnel• Comparingcurrentandpreviousbalancesheetstoeliminate double-posting to transactions and verification of limits• Assistingtradingpersonnelwithmonthlyrevaluationof foreign currency accounts• Answeringenquiriesregardingforeignexchangetrading regulations• Quotingcurrentconversionratesforbankbranchstaffand customers• Buildingenduringrelationshipsinternallyandexternally

• Ensuringcompliancewithallstatutoryandregulatory requirements• Ensuringthatallsuspicioustransactionsarereportedto Branch Management • Assistingclientswithforeignexchangetransactions• Advisingonthetimingandextentofforeignexchange transactions• Providinginsightsintothefluctuationsandforwardtrendsof the currency market• Helpingclientsoptimisetheirforeignexchangedealings• Managingtheinternalforeignexchangedepartmentand personnel• Advisingclientsandensuringcompliancewithallregulatory requirements and the South African Reserve Bank stipulations

Qualifications• Matric• ManypositionsrequireatleastaBachelor’sdegreein business, finance or a related field • Excellentwrittenandoralcommunicationsskillsarehighly valued in this field• Salesandmarketingskillsarealsovaluedforthepurposeof obtaining new clients and maintaining current clients• Knowledgeofforeignaccountingpracticesandforeign economies is essential to the job

• Previousexperienceinfinancialmarketscanprovevaluable to job seekers

Study pathwayLike most jobs in the financial services industry, the path to becoming a Foreign Exchange Consultant can vary, although a university degree is advantageous

What is the career potential?The market for foreign exchange is growing steadily, and opportunities for those interested in the business should grow. However, legislative changes could shape the way that foreign exchange markets do business over the next ten years, whether through the establishment of a clearinghouse system, conversion to a different form altogether, or the protection of the status quo.

Where you can find employment • MostForeignExchangeConsultantsworkinthebanking sector• Largefirmsthatspecialiseinforeignmarkets

Possibilities for self-employmentIndependent Foreign Exchange trader

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Homeloans Officer/Bond OriginatorCareer description The role of the Home Loans Officer or Bond Originator, is a vital to the proper evaluation of financing options and bond application processes when purchasing a property. There is a large amount of information that has to be processed, legal requirements and financial calculations in the preparation of a mortgage bond application. Home Loans Officers and Bond Originators are the interface between the banks and their customers, providing the skills, advice and insights which provide property buyers with the choices they need to make when buying a property. Clients will want the best value in terms of interest rates, deposit amounts and the term of the mortgage bond itself.

In many cases the Home Loans Officer or Bond Originator will have to assist clients with the sale of their existing properties as conditional to the purchase of a new one. Such arrangements can become complex and requires experienced guidance, particularly from a legal perspective.

Work environmentLoan Officers work for banks and other financial institutions. They help individuals and businesses obtain funds from these lenders. Loan Officers specialise in commercial, consumer and mortgage loans.

Personality profile• Familiarwithcomputersandrelatedbankingapplications• Someonewhopaysattentiontodetail• Afriendlydispositionandgoodinterpersonalskills• Abletodealwithcomplexandonerousadministrative processes

Duties and responsibilities• Solicitingpotentialclients,individualsorbusinesses,in need of mortgage bonds• Assistingclientswhoareapplyingforloansfrombanks• Analysingandverifyingapplicationstodeterminethe client’s creditworthiness• Advisingonthebesttermsclientscanexpectrelativeto their financial profile• Ensuringthatalladministrative,statutoryandlegal requirements are met

QualificationsPreferably a BComm in Finance, Economics or a related field

Study pathwayFull-time or correspondence university degree

Sustainability of the careerEmployment of Loan Officers is projected to increase about as fast as the average for all occupations through to 2018. Those with degrees or experience have the best prospects.

Where you can find employment • Banking• Microfinance• FinancialSalesandMarketingcompanies

Possibilities for self-employment• Startamicro-financecompany• BecomeanindependentBondOriginator

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Infastructure Security SpecialistCareer descriptionThe Infrastructure Security Specialist is vital to the smooth and uninterrupted functioning of the organisations computer systems and software programmes. In a modern world so dependent on Information Technology, threats to system integrity has become a major concern. The emergence of security specialists in this expanding field is a phenomenon attributable to the growth of virus proliferation, hackers and online fraudsters. The Infrastructure Security Specialist has now become a key person in the implementation and management of a range of IT security products and systems. This includes regular audits of the anti-virus software, architectural design and the deployment of new software and product suites.

Work environmentHigh levels of stress and extreme attention to detail is part of this environment.

Personality profile• Familiarwithcontrolframeworksandstandards• Someonewhocanapplycriticalthinkingtotroubleshooting in the IT domain• ExpertknowledgeofsecurityrequirementsforITsystems and networks• Researchingandimplementingapplicationsandtheroll-out

of secure operational processes in the organisation• Indepthunderstandingofinformationandtechnicalsecurity architecture and operations• Deepunderstandingofmanagementdisciplines• Knowledgeofthelegalframeworksandlegislation governing the IT industry

Duties and responsibilities• Workingwiththeinformationriskteamsandauditteamsin an organisation in order to identify, prioritise and respond to risks and threats to IT systems• Conductingregularcomponent,technologyandcompliance audits of the organisation’s IT infrastructure • Developingandstandardisingprocessesandprocedures relating to risk management and technology integrity, both within the organisational policies, and externally, to comply with regulatory obligations • Monitoringactionplansthataredevelopedandexecutedto address any non-compliance with policy requirements• Developingandimplementingpoliciesandprocedures to ensure the timely and efficient restoration / recovery of all systems in the event of natural or man-made disasters• Reviewingandupdatingprotectiondevicesandsystems • Reportinganysuspectedcriminalactivitytomanagement

Qualifications• BCommorrelevantdegreeordiploma• PreferablyaBCompScorrelateddiploma

Study pathway• Auniversitydegree• Experienceincomputerauditingandforensicinvestigations would be advisable

Sustainability of the careerA high-demand career with multiple opportunities worldwide

Where you can find employment • Thebankingsector• Inallothersectors

Possibilities for self-employmentIt is possible to work as a contractor, consultant or start your own business

Salary rangeR 550 000 p.a. (negotiable)

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Internal Auditor/Forensic InvestigatorCareer descriptionIn the banking sector, as in all areas of commerce and industry, the services of external, Independent Auditors are routinely engaged to review the books, practices and compliance of the organisation. This includes checking for errors and omissions, irregularities and dubious activities. The role of the Internal Auditor or Forensic Investigator, who is in the employ of the organisation, is exactly the same. The difference is that while the external auditor has many clients and does this work for a fee, the Internal Auditor is an employee and works within the business alongside other employees. This is an important role, as it is often the Internal Auditor who first identifies poor work quality, waste of time and materials, fraud, theft and deliberate acts of industrial espionage or sabotage.

Work environmentSome environments require extensive travelling. The person in this role walks a fine line between management and the other employees. On the one hand, the Internal Auditor is an employee, and is therefore expected to serve the organisation. On the other hand, the Auditor is also an employee, and needs to be able to form sound working relationships with other employees. A good Internal Auditor needs an inquiring mind, the ability to interact with different types of people, a thorough understanding of work processes and the skills to prepare and present management reports.

Personality profile• Someonewhohasintegrityandsolidvalues• Anobjectivemanner,freefromemotionorconjecture• Principledwithanaversiontoanywrongdoing• Exceptionalaccountingandbusinesssystemsskills• Aninquiringmind,suspicioustendency• Super-skilledatcommunicationandinterpersonal engagement• Willingnesstotravelandworklonghourswhennecessary• Fearlessandconfrontational• Innatebusinesssense/systemsunderstanding• Objectivityandemotionaldetachment• Pedanticanddetermined• Analyticalandpragmatic

Duties and responsibilities• Examiningatransactionorprocesstoestablishwhetherit complies with operating procedures and reporting differentials to management • Reviewinganddocumentingfinancialaccountingand reporting procedures in collaboration with external Auditors to identify any irregularities • Conductingregularauditstoidentifywastefulpractices• Investigatinganysuspiciousactivityandreportingsameto management• Ensuringthatallresources,materials,moneyandsystems

are secure • Verifyingthataccountingpracticesandchecksand balances are complied with• Investigatingallsuspiciousactivityandirregularitiesto determine whether theft and/or fraud is/has been perpetrated• WorkingwiththeExternalAuditorstoensureaccurate reporting and regulatory compliancy

Qualifications• BComm(Hons)InternalAuditingwithCIAandCCSA• TobecomeaCertifiedInternalAuditor®, you must pass the IIAexam.Thisassociationadministersagloballyrecognized certification for Internal Auditors • TheIIArequiresallcertificationcandidatestopossessa Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university

Study pathway• Universitydegreefollowedbycompletionofarticles• WritingtheInternationalInternalAuditorsexaminationsa prerequisite for international certification

Sustainability of the careerThere are many opportunities for work in this field, worldwide.

Where you can find employment • Bankingsector• Allsectorsoftheeconomy

Possibilities for self-employment• Owncompany• Consultant


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Investment BankerCareer descriptionThe Investment Banker works closely with the Financial and Investment Managers in an organisation to plan capital requirements and the best way to raise finance, with the ultimate aim of maximising shareholder dividends. Investment Bankers generally work in the corporate finance division where they help to raise the capital for client projects, expansions, mergers, acquisitions and even debt consolidation for clients. They do not themselves give loans or accept deposits like general banks do.

Investment Bankers also trade in securities, generally for governmentorganizationsandlargecorporations.Theyalsoareresponsible for managing the investment portfolios along with providing investment related advice to the Investment Manager and the executive management team. This is why the role of Investment Managers and Investment Banker often overlap.

Consequently the Investment Banker and the Investment Manager are jointly responsible for advising on the best options for investing in fixed assets and for investing cash resources. They continually scan the market to identify trends and investment opportunities with the best risk vs. returns potential. This will include the money, capital, shares, futures and foreign exchange markets.

Work environmentAn Investment Banker is a person who represents a financial institution that is in the business of raising capital for municipalities and corporations. Investment Bankers begin with selling a company on the idea of the deal, getting hired and then complete the deal. They advise their clients on high level issues of financial organisation. This can be done by offering a bond or stock, by merging or other restructuring of companies. A working day for an Investment Banker involves a lot of financial analysis. Investment Bankers help their clients to develop and implement their financial plans. They work long hours, because they have to manage mergers of multibillion-dollar corporations and handle the privatisation of government assets around the world. They also spend a large amount of time travelling.

Personality profile• Goodatmathematics/accounting/investmentstrategies/ analysis• Excellentknowledgeof,andinsightintothefinancial markets• Concernedaboutdetail,tidinessandcorrectness• Methodicalandcareful• Beabletoactwithintegrityatalltimes• Abletomanagestress/workunderpressure/longhours• High-levelnegotiatingskills(Financialandcapitalmarkets)• Aconvincingpersonality/excellentcommunicator

• Excellentanalyticalanddeductionskills

Duties and responsibilities• InvestmentBankersareadvisorsinthecaseofmergersand acquisitions and help in the negotiations either representing the buyers or the sellers• Corporaterestructuringisoneofthemostcommonduties of an Investment Banker• InvestmentBankersarealsohelpinfacilitatingprivate placements• Negotiating,structuringandfacilitatinglargetransactions and deals• Negotiatingthetermsofmergers,acquisitionsordisposalof assets / businesses• Advisingontheremediesforbudgetdeficits,debtand equity restructuring and failing or under-performing operations• Findingbuyersforthesharesofacompany/issuingnew stocks• Arrangingcapitalforclientprojects,mergers,acquisitions and debt consolidation• Buying,sellingandtradingsecuritiesforclients• Managinginvestmentportfoliosandprovidinginvestment advice to clients• Advisingclientcompaniesonbusinessexpansion/ventures of their own

• Analysingclientneedsandrecommendinginvestment options

Qualifications• ASeniorCertificateistheminimumrequirementforfurther training in this career• Tofollowadegreecourseatauniversityrequiresamatric exemption• Compulsoryschoolsubjects:Mathematicsand/or Accountancy• Recommendedschoolsubjects:BusinessEconomicsand Economics• AminimumBachelor’sdegreeisrequiredinthefieldof accounting and finance• AnMBAisgenerallyalsorequired

Study pathwayUniversity• ABComm.degreeinanyofthefollowingfieldswillprovide thenecessarytraining: Accountancy, Business Management, Business Finance, Cost and Management Accountancy, Economics, Financial Management, Investment Management and Management Accountancy • Prospectivestudentsshouldconsultthecalendarsofthe various universities to determine which of this BComm

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degrees are offered at the university of their choice

Technikon• TheN.Dip.CostandManagementAccountingisofferedat all the Technikon• TheN.Dip.AdministrativeManagement(General/Financial) isofferedattheVaalTriangleandEasternCapeTechnikon• TheN.Dip.InternalAuditisofferedatalltheTechnikon except the Technikon Mangosuthu and Witwatersrand SA Institute of Management• TheSAInstituteofManagementoffersone,twoandthree- year diploma courses. These courses are offered by accredited private colleges nationwide• Afterthefirstbasiccourse,studentscanfollowspecialised training in management (for example Financial Management or Human Resources Management) • ProspectivestudentshavetoregisterattheSAInstituteof Management

Sustainability of the careerEmployment in the investment banking industry should remain strong over the foreseeable future.

Where you can find employment Every large organisation requires the services of a Financial and/or Investment Manager.

Possibilities for self-employment• Personswhohaveobtainedatertiaryeducationasfinancial and Investment Managers and who have business skills and initiative, can start a business of almost any kind as they would have learned all the important business foundations in their training • Somepeopleactuallyhaveself-employmentinmindwhen they choose this career • Otheroptionsforself-employmentareactingasFinancial and Investment Consultants, Insurance Brokers, Property Consultants and Stockbrokers


IT Business Analyst Career descriptionBusiness Analysts are business professionals concerned with evaluating and advising on the overall structure of a business, corporation or project with specific attention to key aspects such as sales and marketing, management, accounting, systems, facilities and human resources. The Business Analyst’s responsibility is to evaluate and then provide objective proposals on how to improve productivity, efficiency and profitability within an organisation. Business Analysts can have a focus on organisational, production, technical or IT aspects across the full spectrum of commerce and industry, including banking and financial services.

Work environment• Willingtotravelandstayovernightinotherregionsasand when required• Willingtoworkovertimeasandwhenrequired

Personality profile• Ananalyticalmindanddeepunderstandingofbusiness principles• Broadexperienceandfascinationwithreal-worldbusiness processes and structures• Patienceanddeterminationtoengagelong-rangeprojects• Abilitytomakeinformed,confidentdecisions• Apersonofinnatewisdomandleadershipskills

• Abilitytowritecoherentandactionablereportsand recommendations• Someonewhoispragmaticandunderstands implementation and getting the job done• Willingnesstotravelandworkovertimewhenrequired• Exceptionalcommunicationskills

Duties and responsibilities• Playsakeypartintheanalysisofbusinessrequirements and design of effective, stable and profitable business systems and processes• WorkswithSystemAnalysttoensuresoftwarebuildand testing issues are resolved in an accurate and timely manner• Researchesandreviewsbusinessandsystemstrends internally and externally to ensure that best practice is applied to all project developments• Provides,advice,guidance,coachinganddirectionto project teams in order to maximise effectiveness and efficiency• Analysesandinterpretscomplexdatatoevaluateprogress and verify project success• Identifiesandimplementssignificantbusinessand efficiency potentials• WorksincollaborationwithBusinessArchitecttodeliver business solutions

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• Monitorsandmanagesthetesting,training,budgetingand reporting of all projects from inception to implementation• Ensurestheviabilityandsoundnessofcompanystructures and operations

Qualifications• DiplomainBusinessAnalysis• Businessrelatedqualificationorrelevantexperience• NQFratedBusinessAnalysiscertification• BSc/BComm/ITDegree

Study pathway• Besidestherequiredcertificates,diplomasanduniversity degrees that are recommended, much of what the Business Analyst does, is pure business experience • Inmostorganisationsandinthebankingenvironment for example, the Business Analysts would need a deep understanding of business processes, plus a general business grounding that informs this career

Sustainability of the career• Worldwidedemandfortheseskills• Astechnologychangestheworkplace,theBusiness Analyst will become an increasingly important person in the organisation

Where you can find employment • Allsectorsoftheeconomy• BusinessAnalyst’jobsareavailableinawiderangeof industries

Possibilities for self-employment• Consultant• Ownbusiness


Management AccountantCareer descriptionThe Management Accountant’s function is to assist the Financial Manager to implement and maintain an effective management control system. This includes planning, budgeting, controlling, monitoring, analysing, interpreting and reporting on financial data. In addition the Management Accountant also helps to ensure that all financial transactions are processed in accordance with policies, procedures and statutory requirements.

Work environmentThis role often includes managing other employees’ work which can be stressful. Most companies would expect you to work longer than normal hours especially during budgeting periods, financial year end and tax returns submission periods.

Personality profile• Goodknowledgeofbudgetingandforecastingissuesand techniques• Knowledgeoffinancialanalysisandinterpretation• Numeracyskills• Organisingandfacilitationskills• Computerliteracy• Communication(verbalandwritten)skills• Willingtohelpandlearn• Asenseofurgency/result-driven

• Diligence• Calmunderpressure• Goodinterpersonalskills

Duties and responsibilities• AssistingtheFinancialManager• Financialplanning/budgeting• Financialanalysisandevaluation• Ensurethatfundsandcostcentresaresetupand maintained to support operations and specific requirements• Create,implementandmonitorprocessesandprocedures around the creation of monthly forecasts• Implementcorporategovernanceprocedures,risk management and internal controls• Monitorspendingandeffectivenessoffinancialcontrol• Performinvestigationsregardingeffectivenessand/or efficiencies

Qualifications • AnAccountingdegree(BCommorequivalent)• Otherequivalentaccountingormanagementaccounting/ costing qualification

Study pathwayUniversity degree or equivalent qualification

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Sustainability of the careerEvery sector of the economy makes use of Management Accountants, so there is always a need for these skills.

Where you can find employment• Bankingsector• Allsectorsoftheeconomy

Possibilities for self-employment• Accountingpractice• Ownbusiness

Salary rangeR 350 000 p.a.

Project/Programme ManagersCareer descriptionThe role of the Project/Programme Manager is at the forefront of business development today. It is here that the projects and development, the growth of an organisation finds traction. It is the Project Manager who makes things happen. This is usually focused around building a strong development team with matching delivery capacity.

Accomplishes human resource objectives by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, assigning, scheduling, coaching, counselling, and disciplining employees; communicating job expectations; planning, monitoring, appraising, and reviewing job contributions; planning and reviewing compensation actions; enforcing policies and procedures.

The development, testing and possible replication of new innovative approaches. Direct and indirect partnerships with local and international donor (for example the UK’s DFID) and development financing institutions (for example the World Bank and KFW).

Work environmentThis is a stressful and fast-paced work environment that relies on very good organisational and interpersonal skills. Long working hours and a fair amount of travel are involved.

Personality profile• DevelopingBudgets,Coaching,Supervision,Staffing, Project Management, Management Proficiency, Process Improvement, Tracking Budget Expenses, Self-Development, Planning, Performance Management• Leadershipandmanagementskills• Highlevelinterpersonalskills• Negotiationskills• Computerliteracy• Goodbusinessplanningskills• Projectmanagementskills• Goodcommunicationskills

Duties and responsibilities• Achievesoperationalobjectivesbycontributinginformation and recommendations to strategic plans and reviews• Preparingandcompletingactionplans• Implementingproduction,productivity,quality,and customer-service standards• Resolvingprojectissues,completingaudits,identifying trends, determining system improvements, implementing change• Meetingfinancialobjectivesbyforecastingrequirements, preparing budgets, scheduling expenditures, analysing variances and initiating corrective actions• Remainingattheforefrontofindustrydevelopmentsand

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innovation, as well as socio-economic trends• Maintainingpersonalnetworks• Participatinginprofessionalorganizations• Enhancingdepartmentalandorganizationalreputationby promoting new ideas that will add value to the enterprise• Evaluatingapplicabilityofcurrentoremergingtechnological solutions to the future needs of the enterprise and motivate to senior management• Managingmulti-disciplinaryandmutli-sectoralprogrammes and projects• Managingandcollateinputsofprojectteammembers• Monitoringallprojects,managingbudgetsandtracking disbursements

Qualifications• Afouryeardegreeinsocialscienceoreconomics/ development studies• BComm• BSCEngineering• Musthaveaprojectmanagementqualificationand/or experience

Study pathwayMinimum of four-eight years relevant working experience

Sustainability of the careerLies in the scarce and critical skills list, nationally.

Where you can find employment All sectors of the economy

Possibilities for self-employmentStart own project management company or work as a Consultant


Risk Officer/ManagerCareer descriptionA Risk Manager is responsible for managing threats posed to the progress of a business or organisation. Specifically, the Risk Manager’s job description calls for protection of company assets, income, employees, reputation and shareholders. The area of expertise required of Risk Managers often varies depending on the industry.

Work environmentHighly motivated and passionate about service excellence.

Personality profile• Strongwrittenandoralcommunicationsskills,presentation skills,teamplayerwithabilitytoinfluencechangewithout direct authority, negotiation skills and computer proficiency• Haveknowledgeofcreditriskmodeldevelopment, development software and credit risk management• Havequantitativecreditriskmodellingexperience• Havegoodinterpersonal,presentationandcommunication skills, team player• Beinvestigative,creative,innovativeandseekingchallenges• Beself-motivated,pro-activeandapplyowninitiative• Havesomeprojectmanagementskills

Duties and responsibilities• Identifyingriskswithintheenterprise/enterprise departments• Ensuringthatadequatecontrolsareimplementedto mitigate the identified risks • Ensuringthatoperationallossesareatanacceptablelevel• Communicatingexposuretomanagementviadetailed, accurate reporting • Monitoring,analysing,interpretingandensuringcompliance within the enterprise• DevelopingandimplementingaRiskStrategyforadoption by EXCO and the Risk and Compliance Committee• Provideadvicewithreferencetoriskrelatedissues,as regards both internal policies and legislation

Qualifications• BCommorDiplomainRiskManagementorequivalent financial qualification• BCommInternalAuditorAccounting• Honours/CIApreferred

Study pathway• Followtertiaryqualifications

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Sustainability of the careerMany opportunities available as the field has many entry points, both junior to senior

Where you can find employment • AllsectorsincludingBanking&FinancialServices• Possibilitiesforself-employment• Startapractice• Consulting


Risk SpecialistCareer descriptionEnsure that all risk management and loss containment activities are performed in a timely manner as required by the risk management division and senior management.

Work environmentHigh-stress and fast-paced

Personality profile• Goodverbalandwrittencommunicationskills• Assertiveness• Problemsolvingskills• Judgementanddecisionmaking• Personmustbeabletofunctionindependently

Duties and responsibilities• Reviewingthereliabilityandintegrityoffinancialand operating information and the means used to identify, measure, classify and report such information• Planningforandimplementingthebestpracticeframework of risk management under the supervision of the Chief Risk Officer/ Manager • AssistingtheDivisionalManagerinthepreparationofthe risk profiles for the enterprise, focusing on the segment related risk (credit risk, interest risk, equity risk, liquidity risk

and strategic funding risk) and related asset and liability risk profiles• Supportingmanagementinidentifying,assessingand quantifying all financial risks and activating the appropriate risk management processes• Supportingmanagementinidentifyingkeyriskindicators across all aspects of the enterprise balance sheet• Collatingandmonitoringlossdataonamonthlybasis• Compiling,analysing,registeringandescalatingrisk reports through the appropriate management and governance committee structures• Assistingintherolloutandimplementationofriskeducation and awareness programmes for management

Qualifications• Degree/NationalDiplomawithRiskManagementasa subject

Study pathway• Followuniversityanddiplomaqualifications

Sustainability of the careerAll sectors utilise this career so it offers excellent opportunities

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Where you can find employment Banking / Finance and Investment sectors

Possibilities for self-employmentConsulting


Talent SpecialistCareer descriptionThe Talent Specialist has become an important organisation expert with specific focus on people and the deployment and utilisation of human resources. In the banking sector and across all sectors of the economy it is becoming increasingly important not only to identify and attract talent, but to optimise that talent in the operational structure. To manage the direction andappreciation of talent, particularly against capability requirements (skills and behaviours), what potentials can be released against them and how a set of success criteria can be developed to enable performance management of talent is a complex and important task.

Work environmentA pivotal management function which has implications for succession planning and career pathing as well as strategic planning, which itself is dependent on acquisition of scarce pivotal and critical skills. This is the realm of the Talent Specialist, a growing career path in banking and all sectors of the economy.

Personality profile• Creativethinking/problemsolvingabilities• Goodwithtalentedpeople/excellentinterpersonalskills/ team player• Ethical,alwaysactsinabsoluteconfidentiality• Conceptualandanalyticalthinker

• Understandshowtalentimpactsorganisationalfunctionality• Anenergeticchangeagentforacceptanceandapplication of talent strategies• Abletodeliverworkofhighstandardsunderpressure• Excellentcommunicatorwithabove-averagemotivational and presentation skills• Naturallyconfidential/discreet• Vision

Duties and responsibilities• Developingthetalentmanagementstrategieswithlineand corporate leadership• Assistinglineandseniormanagementtoidentifyand develop talent within the organisation• Establishingtalentpipelinestosupportbusinessefficiency and development• Identifying‘talentgaps’requiredtosupportbusiness initiatives and alignment with corporate goals• ActingasaliaisonwithotherHRteamstocoordinateand articulate the value of the talent management programmes, systems and processes to ensure consistency in talent application• Proactivelymanagingthedevelopmentoftheidentified talent and how that fits into the overall HR development within the organisation

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• Coordinating,articulating,developingandapplyingtalent through an enterprise-wide view of present and future talent needs

Qualifications• BAorBCommoradegreeinHR• RelevantB(Degree)OrHigherNationalDiploma (NQFLevel6)• Atleastthreeyears’experienceasaHumanCapital Generalist• Experienceindesigningstrategiesandbusinessprocesses• Consultingskills• Experienceinmanagingclientrelationships• Specialistskillsrelatingtoorganisationaldesign,HR management or related field

Study pathway• Universitydegreeandrelatedbusinessexperience• MembershipofTheIPSC(Apso)• KnowledgeofLabourLegislationIncludingEEA,LRAand BCEA• ProficientInMsOffice

Sustainability of the careerThis career fits into every sector of the economy offering excellent career opportunities

Where you can find employment • Bankingsector• Allsectorsoftheeconomy

Possibilities for self-employment• Consulting• Startowncompany


Trade Settlement SpecialistCareer descriptionThe Trade Settlement Specialist is a finance specialist engaged primarily in monitoring, analysing, and processing transactions involving securities and other financial instruments in the market.

Work environmentFast-paced, deadline-driven environment with long working hours

Personality profile• Computerliterate• Excellentattentiontodetail• Organised/goodtimemanagementskills• Abilitytoworkunderpressure• Abilitytoprioritise/takeinitiative• Ateamplayer• Goodwithpeople• Excellentcommunicationsskills

Duties and responsibilities• Facilitatingtheaccurateandtimelysettlementofdomestic transactions within various product areas, including asset backed securities, municipal and corporate bonds • Identifyingtradediscrepanciesandunmatchedtradesas well as mitigating the risks related to the trade life-cycle • Dailyreconciliationofsecuritiesmovements• Settlementofmoneymarkettrades

• Responsibilityforthereceipt,deliveryandcustodyof physical assets• Adheringtomoneymarketcut-offtimesandprocesses• Administeringmoneymarketinstruments• Dailymaturityandinterestcollection

QualificationsBComm in Accounting or Finance

Study pathway• Followtertiaryqualification• FinancialMarketstraininganadvantage

Sustainability of the careerA multi-sectoral career with growing opportunities

Where you can find employment All sectors including Banking / Finance and Investment


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Treasury AnalystCareer descriptionThe Treasury Analystmanages the flow of cash at a bank orfinancial institution, or in an office where cash transactions are commonplace. The Treasury Analyst is responsible for logging cash transactions, overseeing transfers and monitoring the supply and movement of cash. These financial professionals make financial projections, analyse market conditions and provide advice on taking a long term position in the money market. Treasury Analysts also advise on policy and provide important information for companies evaluating investments, mergers, and other financial transactions.

Work environmentWorking with money can be very stressful and best suits a responsible and careful person

Personality profile• Goodmathematicalability• Problemsolver• Strongbusinessanalysisskills• Likesworkingwithmoney• Discreet,strictlyconfidential• Accurateanddiligent• Integrityandhonesty

Duties and responsibilities• Managingandanalysingcashflowinanorganisation• Advisingonoptimisationofcashresourcesinrespectof disbursements and investments• Managingandmaintainingloans• Releasingofforeignpayments• SubmittingmonthlyVATreturns• UploadingForexontothesystem• ComplyingwithallSARBregulations• Preparingtreasuryreports• Managingexternalloans• Assistingwithpolicymatters

Qualifications• BScorBCommDegreeorBtechinIT• BComptpluscompletedArticles• Preferablyoneyearexperienceintreasuryfieldor,three years’ experience in general accounting functions, with some treasury experience • Calypso/Murexsystemsexperienceanadvantage• Technicalbackgroundwouldbeanadvantage

Sustainability of career• High-demand,manypositionsavailable

Where you can find employment Banking and financial services, manufacturing industry

Possibilities for self-employmentYou can become a Consultant

Salary rangeR 500 000 p.a.

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Treasury DealerCareer descriptionA Treasury Dealer works directly under the leadership of the Chief Investment Officer or Treasurer. Primary duties are to select the best short-term investment strategies to place (invest) daily cash surpluses on securities exchanges and in private placements. A Treasury Dealer would typically hold a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field.

Work environmentA Treasury Dealer has a busy schedule at the end of the month or quarter when a firm typically issues financial reports and sends regulatory data to the Internal Revenue Service or the Securities and Exchange Commission. A junior Treasury Dealer hasastandard8:30a.m.to5:30p.m.workschedule,whereassenior professionals may work longer hours.

Personality profile• Atalentforidentifying/choosingadvantageousinvestment opportunities• GoodManagementskills• Accuracyandattentiontodetail• Goodinvestmentinstincts• Goodatmakingquick,considereddecisions• Understandingofmoneymarkets• Honestyandintegrity• Teamplayer

Duties and responsibilities• ManagingTreasuryFrontOfficeasthebank’smaindealer• Dealinginforeignexchange,primary,spotfundsetc.• Performingmoneymanagementanddealerfunctions• Managingplacementsandsettlementwithbanks• Managingandmonitoringthebank’sdaytodayliquidity• Liaisingwithotherbanksforforeignexchange,money market limits, etc.• Keepingmanagementinformedofanychangesinthe treasury portfolio or changes in legislation that may affect the bank’s operations• Hands-oncontrol,monitoringandplacementofcash resources• Maximisingreturnsoncashinvestments

Qualifications• AFinancialBDegreeorsuitableequivalenttoanNQF6is essential• CPAlicenceisusuallyrequired

Study pathway• Followuniversitydegree• ObtainCPAcertification• In-serviceexperience

Sustainability of careerLike most financial careers there is a reasonable amount of work available

Where you can find employment • Bankingsector• Financialinstitutions• Largecorporations

Possibilities for self-employmentLimited

Salary range R 360 400 – R 755 900 p.a.

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Wealth ManagerCareer descriptionAWealthManager isafinancialadvisortotheaffluent-thoseindividuals and families with a high net worth. Wealth Managers often perform the same functions of other financial professionals, but the difference is that they are entrusted with more wealth to manage.

Some of the functions include making recommendations on financial decisions, tax planning and preparation, and overseeing investments and assets to ensure growth and avoid loss. The American Academy of Financial Management (AAFM) offers a chartered Wealth Manager program in which financial professionals can learn the skills and acquire the knowledge required to manage the assets of wealthy clients. The AAFM also offers accreditation in the form a Chartered Wealth Manager designation.

Work environmentHigh emphasis on customer management and usually long working hours

Personality profile• Organisedanddiligent• Goodpeopleskillsandfinancial/businessskills • Excellentinterpersonalskillsespeciallywithwealthy individuals

• Goodplanningandorganisationalskills• Goodwithmoney/investment• Punctuality

Duties and responsibilities• Providingclientswithaone-stopshopserviceandconsult with lawyers, accountants, and business managers on clients’ behalf in order to provide comprehensive advice• OfferingexpertopinionswheretheWealthManagermaynot personally possess this specialisation (Such as that provided by a tax specialist or attorney)• Holdingregularclientbriefings,updatesandreports• Ensuringthatallinvestmentsandstatutoryrequirementsare tracked / monitored• Maximisingreturnoninvestments

QualificationsBComm or similar degree

Study pathway• Followuniversitydegree• Obtaincertification•Getin-serviceexperience

Sustainability of the careerSought after skill, internationally

Where you can find employment All areas of financial services sector

Possibilities for self-employmentStart own company – Private Wealth management


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Work-readiness Tips Moving up the corporate ladder

WelcomeYou have entered a new and exciting phase in your life - you’re preparing yourself for the future! It’s not just about getting a job it’s about building a career. We’re proud to be part of guiding you along this new life-path in the world of banking and microfinance.

BANKSETA is dedicated to preparing you for a career that will offer you the widest possible opportunities. We take this very seriously as we imagine you do. Your future is our deepest concern, where the possibilities are limitless, and the future beckons for those who are prepared to grasp the opportunities. This document is intended to provide you with the additional life and business skills you will need to start your journey.

Join us in building a bright and prosperous future together.We wish you every success!

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Preparing for the interview and interview techniquesBear in mind that the short time you have in a job interview could impact negatively or positively on your career prospects. So take the time to get it right! The following notes will help you navigate successfully through those stressful job interviews. During any job interview you will be assessed on your strengths and weaknesses, as well as specific personal characteristics such as attitude, aptitude, stability, motivation and maturity.

Some interview DOs and DON’Ts:

Be prepared to answer questions such as: • Whyareyouinterestedinacareerinbanking?• Whywouldyouliketoworkforourbank/financial institution?• Wheredoyouseeyourselffiveyearsfromnow?• Whatjobhaveyouenjoythemostandwhy?• Whatcanyouofferourcompany,andwhyshouldwehire youoveranothercandidate?• Whatareyourstrengthsandweaknesses?• Whatdoesteamworkmeantoyou?

DON’T answer questions with a simple “yes” or “no”. Explain yourself whenever possible. Describe experiences you’ve had as well as your characteristics that will relate and suit the position on offer.

Hints on finding work and CV Writing

DO arrive on time or a few minutes early. Arriving late for a job interview is inexcusable DO shake hands firmly and always maintain eye contact

DON’T lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and as close to the point as possible DON’T ever make derogatory remarks about your present or previous employerDON’T leave your cellphone on during the interviewDON’Twaffle

Remember that the interviewer will be evaluating your negative attributes as well as your positive ones. Here are some of the negative traits that are frequently evaluated in an interview, and most often lead to rejection.

• Poorpersonalappearanceorhygiene• Comingacrossasoverbearing,aggressiveorconceited• Inabilitytoexpressthoughtsclearly-poordictionor grammar• Beingordismissiveaboutyourselforthecareer you are being interviewed for• Lackofconfidence–nervousness• Overemphasisonmoney-don’tshowtoomuchinterestin the remuneration package• Failuretolooktheinterviewerintheeye• Aweakhandshakecomesacrossbadly• Failuretoaskintelligentquestionsaboutthejobandthe company• Lackofinterviewpreparation-failuretoresearchthe company will result in an inability to ask intelligent questions

Closing the interview

• THANKtheinterviewerfortheirtime• DON’Tbediscouragedifnoofferismadeoraspecific salary discussed. The interviewer will probably want to consult with colleagues or interview other candidates before making a decision• Ensureyouhaveexplainedwhyyou’reinterestedinthejob and company

Good luck!

Things to avoid:

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So how do you find out where the job opportunities are? Here are some hints and suggestions. Remember, you will need to work hard at finding employment and it’s easy to get despondent. Here’s a good attitude to adopt.

The best advice from a BANKSETA perspective is to “smile when you dial!”. Remember that the various banks and financial institutions you are calling get hundreds of calls a week from people seeking to work there. So you have to stand out from thecrowd.Thebestwaytodothisisasfollows:

• Beforeyoupickupthephonetocalltheprospective employer, believe that you can do the job and that you are worth interviewing. For others to believe in you, you have to believe in yourself first• Practisewhatyouaregoingtosayoutloudfirst.Weknowit sounds odd, but trust us. What you think you are going to say in your head and the words that come out are not always the same. So rehearse your “sales pitch” first• Alwayssmilebeforeyoumakeyourcall(smileonyourdial!) It’s easy to pick up when someone is smiling on the phone and the person who answered your call is more likely to pay attention to what you have to say. The added advantage is that smiling will immediately make you feel more positive and confident.

Finding employment opportunities“Some people succeed because they are destined to, but most people succeed because they are determined to”. Unknown

YourCVsellsyouwhenyouarenotpresenttosellyourself.PleaseconsiderthefollowingpointswhenwritingupyourCV:1. ACVisyourlifedepictedonpaper.Itshouldexpresswho you are as a person, a description of your work life in a neat, clear and concise format

2. Accuracy and attention to detail are vital 3. Ensure that you describe your work history and duties in detailed point form4. A cover page is not necessary

Curriculum Vitae Template

Personal DetailsName Zanele NxumaloAddress 5 Khumalo Road, Orlando West, SowetoID Number 932622 2222 222ContactDetails Cell:0765555555 E-mail:[email protected]

Education - School Institution Jabulani High SchoolYear 2010Qualification MatricEducation – Tertiary Institution ABC TechnikonYear Completed 2011Qualification BtechinFinance

PC literacyMicrosoft WordAchievements2010:Captainofthenetballteam

Work Experience (start with your most recent job)Company: EdgarsPosition: Student/intern/part-timeassistantDuration: June2011–July2011Duties and responsibilities: Greetcustomers Assist with any queries Assist at till points Reasonforleaving:Itwasapart-timeopportunityReference: MrBMofokeng(FloorManager) Tel:0824444444

(Example of a Curriculum Vitae for “Zanele Nxumalo”) (Please note all supporting information is fictitious)

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Networking is all about meeting and connecting with people to see what opportunities you can offer each other. It is a very important skill to learn as you enter the world of business and banking in particular, in your search for new opportunities. Here are some tips to get you started on the road to successful networking:

Rule no.1 - FOLLOW SUCCESS. Networking is about connectingwithinfluentialorconnectedpeople.

Rule No.2 – LOOK THE PART. If you’re hoping to further your career through the people you meet, you should display confidence, take care of your personal grooming and most importantly, you should believe in yourself.

Rule No.3 – DON”T BE SHY. When you have the opportunity at a party, function or event whether it’s business or social, look out for opportunities. A warm handshake, a smile and suddenly – you’ve made a contact.

Rule No.4 – MAKE LISTS. Start making lists of your contacts; theirtitlesandwhattheydo.NEVERcrossanyoneoffthatlist,because you never know when you’ll need them. Even if they can’t help you immediately, they may know someone who can.

Rule No.5 – KEEP IT REAL. Successful networking is about being genuine, authentic, building trust and forging relationships. Look out for how you can help others – they are sure to return the favour.

The importance of networking

Basic money management adviceAvoid getting into debt. Borrowing money often means making large interest payments.

If it is absolutely necessary to borrow money, be careful who you borrow money from.

Beware of opening accounts at your favorite stores. Think before you leap.

Also think twice before you rush off and get a credit card.

It’s easy to run up debt, and failure to meet your commitments can lead to a bad credit rating.

Get creative on ways you can save money; bring lunch to workinstead of buying lunch every day; look out for free events where you can go to with your friends like free music concerts.

Save, save, save. It’s hard with all the expenses, but even if you save a little every month, you’ll be grateful you did when you need really the money.

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Interviews Meet the top banking professionals

Irma WeeninkDevelopment Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)

What is your current occupation and job title? Managing various funds/facilities on behalf of the DBSA and/or partners – Senior Programme Manager.

Please describe a typical day at work? Starts with meetings with Project Managers regarding progress/constraints encountered across all current projects. Monitoring progress on “macro/overarching” issues like the development of the web site. Preparing the agenda and documentation for forthcoming governing structure meetings, as well as preparing presentations for interested groups such as a delegation of Japanese business people. AADFI; negotiating

new fund/facilities and reporting to management on various progress related issues. Dealing with sensitive queries.

Why did you choose to work at a bank?Originally because of the focus on community development issues and projects. Since then this has evolved concurrently with the DBSA’s elevation to larger programmes and a wider role in development generally.

What qualification do you have from a tertiary institution? BComm (Hons) – Industrial Psychology.

What subjects did you choose at school in order to study further at tertiary level or for this occupation? Maths, Science, Business Economics.

How long did it take you to study for your qualification and which tertiary institutions offer this qualification? Four years at the University of the Free State.

What do you like best about your job? The scope of experience I have gained and exposure to international affairs and major development projects.

What other career opportunities in banking and microfinance could be available to someone like you? A career in project management and developing new funding models and concepts for development projects.

What has been your career highlight to date? Timbuktu Manuscript Archive Project.

What advice would you give to students or someone just starting out? Keep an open mind to the possibilities. Learn from your peers and your more experienced colleagues. Approach even the most menial task in a professional and efficient manner. Get to learn and understand everything you can about the business you’re in. Above all, remember that insight and understanding is the basis for creative thinking and your own personal development.

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Hennie De WaalInvestec

What is your current occupation and job title? Settlements Manager.

Please describe a typical day at work?On a typical day I would have to ensure that staff comply with JSE rules and regulations, orchestrate the settlement of JSE equity/bond/unit trust/corporate action/scrip lending transactions, ensure the payments/receipt of client funds, balancing of client share holdings, and adding/ closing client accounts on all JSE systems. Why did you choose to work at a bank? I was excited at the prospect of getting to where the real action is in business –

and that is where the money is.

What qualification do you have from a tertiary institution? Diplomas – JSE / STRATE Compliance / Settlements Officer / Authorised Trades exams. Studied towards a BComm.

What subjects did you choose at school in order to study further at tertiary level or for this occupation? Maths / Bookkeeping

How long did it take you to study for your qualification and which tertiary institutions offer this qualification? The requirement for Compliance /Traders/Settlement started in 2002. These exams can be completed in a year or maximum two years, depending on experience. Courses run under the auspices of the South African Institute of Financial Markets (SAIFM).

What do you like best about your job?The adrenalin rush that comes with ensuring that large and often very substantial trades are matched and

settled daily, and the fact that every day is a new challenge.

What other career opportunities in banking and microfinance could be available to someone like you? Debtors/creditors, bookkeeper clerk /manager (with BComm) financial manager/sub accountant / accountant. There are many and varied opportunities.

What has been your career highlight to date?To guide, mentor and train staff to their maximum potential and ability – and to see how the company benefits from well trained and skilled people.

What advice would you give to students or someone just starting out? Be prepared to start at the bottom but take the opportunity to learn every aspect of the business.

Annette WeitzDevelopment Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)

What is your current occupation and job title? Divisional Analyst for the Portfolio Management Cluster in the South Africa Operations Division.

Please describe a typical day at work?• Researchingandanalysingfactors in the regulating environment which may impact on DBSAs book, as well as the socio-economic environment within which the DBSA operates• Writingofreports• PreparingofPowerPoint presentations for management• Facilitatingbusinessdevelopment meetings with external stakeholders

Why did you choose to work at a bank? It is a very challenging environment and there are better career opportunities for personal growth.

What qualification do you have from a tertiary institution?• Bachelor’sdegree:Psychology, Criminology (UP) and Archaeology• PostgraduatequalificationsinProject Management (UNISA) • Financialmanagementfornon- financial managers (UP)

What subjects did you choose at school in order to study further at tertiary level or for this occupation? Accounting and business economics.

How long did it take you to study for your qualification and which tertiary institutions offer this qualification? • Bachelor’sdegree:Universityof Pretoria (3 years)• Postgraduatequalifications:Project management- one year• Archaeology-oneyear

What do you like best about your job? Everyday has new challenges, challenges that improve my expertise and skill levels.

What other career opportunities in banking and microfinance could be available to someone like you? Portfolio Officer and/or Group Risk Officer.

What has been your career highlight to date? My appointment as the Divisional Analyst in the Portfolio Management cluster.

What advice would you give to students or someone just starting out?My advice would be to study a BComm degree or BComm degree in accounting. Each of these degrees will assist you in the banking environment and give you a head start in your career.

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Martha MduliThuthukani

What is your current occupation and job title? I am a Clerk.

Please describe a typical day at work? Capturing client’s data, filing, cleaning and marketing.

Why did you choose to work at a bank? To communicate with people and to get experience.

What qualification do you have from a tertiary institution? Passed Grade 9.

What subjects did you choose at school in order to study further at tertiary level or for this occupation? Maths, History, Geography, Biology, Zulu and English.

How long did it take you to study for your qualification and which tertiary institutions offer this qualification? No tertiary qualification.

What do you like best about your job? I communicate with people.

What other career opportunities in banking and microfinance could be available to someone like you? A Consultant.

What has been your career highlight to date? Understanding the Elfin program.

What advice would you give to students or someone just starting out? Do experiential training in microlending.

David Terbrugge Investec

What is your current occupation and job title? Wealth Manager.

Please describe a typical day at work? I manage the financial affairs of Ultra High-Net Worth individuals. This includes managing their investment portfolios (both offshore and onshore), staying up to date with new products, tax legislation, exchange control legislation and related issues. I see clients typically four times a year to give feedback on their portfolios. I have to be constantly aware of market events and adjust accordingly. An important part of my role is also gathering new assets to manage.

Why did you choose to work at a bank? I have always being interested in markets.

What qualification do you have from a tertiary institution? BComm. from UJ and PDM from Wits Business School.

What subjects did you choose at school in order to study further at tertiary level or for this occupation? Maths and Science.

How long did it take you to study for your qualification and which tertiary institutions offer this qualification? Four years. University of Johannesburg and Wits Business School.

What do you like best about your job? Being a Wealth Manager is a combination of technical expertise and relationship building skills which I both enjoy.

What other career opportunities in banking and microfinance could be available to someone like you? Stockbroking, Asset Management, Investment Banking.

What has been your career highlight to date? Buildingasizablebookofassetstomanage which generates fees for the bank.

What advice would you give to students or someone just starting out? To try and gain as broad a skills set as possible.

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Stefan BollingDevelopment Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)

What is your current occupation and job title? Accountant;HeadofFinance:International Division – DBSA.

Please describe a typical day at work? Responsible for the Finance function of the International Division, including reporting of financial results and providing performance enhancement recommendations. This includes budgeting and forecasting, as well as implementing financial process improvements and authorising payments. Ensuring that creditors are paid as well as fulfilling my fiduciary duties as a member of the divisional credit

committee and various other special projects.

Why did you choose to work at a bank? Through their lending activities, banks are significant facilitators of growth in all economies and as a result, they are generally at the forefront of any economic innovations. This makes for a very inspiring and challenging environment to work in.

What qualification do you have from a tertiary institution? BComm; BAcc; CA (SA); CFA.

What subjects did you choose at school in order to study further at tertiary level or for this occupation? Maths; Additional Maths; Science; English. How long did it take you to study for your qualification and which tertiary institutions offer this qualification? Four years. Whilst these degrees are offered at most universities, specialised

qualification as a CA (SA) is only possible through the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants.

What do you like best about your job? As an accountant one gets exposure to all aspects of an organisation, as everything the organisation does has to eventually be recorded in the financial recordsofthatorganization.Thismakesfor a diverse and interesting career.

What other career opportunities in banking and microfinance could be available to someone like you? As accounting is closely linked to finance in general, the opportunities are vast, from various back-office functions to becoming a member of the front-line staff and from junior roles all the way to CFO and even CEO.

What has been your career highlight to date?I have had the opportunity to work for a number of different institutions, which has provided me with broad insights into many aspects of the finance

environment. It is these many different experiences, as opposed to a single event, that highlight my career and give me the confidence that I would be able to tackle most assignments that come my way.

What advice would you give to students or someone just starting out? Be a nerd and study hard because if you are not the nerd, then you will be reporting to one someday.

Renntse GaoraelweDevelopment Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)

What is your current occupation and job title? Investment Officer at a Development Finance Institution.

Please describe a typical day at work? A typical day (when there is a current project going through committees) includes a lot of reading and research (of the project), report writing, comment on agreements/reports/financial models, financial model analysis, meetings with team members, and teleconferences with co-funders. A typical day with no active project involvement would include follow up on new and current projects, calls and

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meetings with potential project sponsors, advisors and other funders, as well as a lot of reading and research regarding what is going on in the region.

Why did you choose to work at a bank? I am passionate about project and infrastructure finance as well as doing work in Africa. The DFI I currently work for allows me to live out my passion.

What qualification do you have from a tertiary institution? BComm (Economics and Finance) and BComm(Hons)(Financial Analysis and Portfolio Management) and currently studying towards a CFA charter (Level 2).

What subjects did you choose at school in order to study further at tertiary level or for this occupation? I did a BComm degree, with speciality in economics and finance - I have always been interested in finance (Investment Banking), hence the subject choice.

How long did it take you to study for your qualification and which tertiary institutions offer this qualification? Five years (as a result of changing degrees from Business Science Marketing to BComm).

What do you like best about your job?The positive impact that our transactions have on the continent.

What other career opportunities in banking and microfinance could be available to someone like you?I can do anything in banking that is finance related (structured finance, leveraged finance, private equity, project and infrastructure finance etc). I have no interest in microfinance. Someone like me however, could transverse all aspects banking.

What has been your career highlight to date?Listing of a major bank in Zambia—where I was responsible for the transaction (on the advisory side) from start to finish.

What advice would you give to students or someone just starting out?Be clear about what you want to do and do everything in your power to work towardsthat.Vacationemployment(eithersummerorwinter)isVERYimportant. Career counselling should be taken seriously (i.e. company presentations on campus).

Don’t be left out in the coldJo in our community!

Visit us at www.bankseta.org.za

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