Quantum Leap Graduate

Absa is offering a unique opportunity for recent technology graduates to kick-start their careers through its Quantum Leap Academy programme. This initiative, based in Johannesburg, is designed to nurture emerging talent in critical technology areas, providing a structured pathway for professional development over a two-year period. The programme aims to equip graduates with the in-demand skills and practical experience necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape of the financial sector.

About the Quantum Leap Academy

The Quantum Leap Academy is a deliberate effort by Absa to build a strong pipeline of tech professionals. It focuses on three core specialisation streams: Software Engineering, Platform Engineering, and Solution Design/Architecture. This ensures that graduates receive focused training tailored to specific, high-impact areas within the organisation. The programme goes beyond theoretical learning, integrating foundational technical training with hands-on, on-the-job experience. This blended approach allows graduates to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios, working alongside experienced professionals and contributing to actual business unit objectives.

What You'll Experience

Participants in the Quantum Leap Academy will immerse themselves in various workplace experiences, all meticulously aligned with predefined developmental goals. This practical exposure is crucial for understanding the intricacies of the financial technology environment. Graduates will have the chance to collaborate with diverse teams across different business units, gaining a holistic view of Absa's operations and how technology underpins them. A significant part of the learning process involves managing stakeholder expectations and contributing to the delivery of key project outcomes.

Learning and development are at the heart of this programme. Graduates will attend and actively participate in comprehensive training sessions designed to enhance their technical proficiency and professional acumen. Continuous learning is encouraged, with an emphasis on staying abreast of emerging technologies, tools, and best practices relevant to their chosen specialisation and the broader technology landscape at Absa. Beyond formal training, graduates will be expected to provide ad-hoc support to colleagues and clients, ensuring seamless team performance and contributing to project activities. Essential administrative tasks, such as progress tracking and reporting on development activities, are also a key component, fostering good organisational habits. Furthermore, participation in incident management, disaster recovery activities, and ensuring adherence to risk and governance frameworks are integral to the role, promoting a strong understanding of operational resilience and compliance within the financial industry.

What They're Looking For

To be considered for the Quantum Leap Academy, candidates must have successfully completed an Honours degree in a relevant technology-focused field. This includes disciplines such as Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Mathematics, or Statistics. A strong academic foundation in these areas is essential. While the programme is deeply technical, a background or interest in Business, Commerce, and Management Studies, as evidenced by a Bachelor's degree in these fields, is also noted as a requirement, suggesting an appreciation for the business context in which technology operates.

Absa is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. As such, preference may be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups, aligning with the company's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) commitments and Employment Equity objectives. This includes encouraging applications from individuals with disabilities, and Absa is committed to providing reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process.

For graduates in South Africa, roles like this, which offer structured development and exposure to a large corporate environment, are highly sought after. While specific salaries are not disclosed, graduate programmes at major financial institutions typically offer competitive starting stipends or salaries, often in the range of R15,000 to R25,000 per month, depending on the specific programme and employer. Absa, as one of the largest banks in the country, provides a strong foundation for a career in financial technology, with potential for significant growth and advancement within the organisation.

Qualifications:

• Completed Honours degree in relevant tech fields such as Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Mathematics, Statistics or similar disciplines.

Note that location will be as agreed

Education

Bachelors Degree and Professional Qualifications: Business, Commerce and Management Studies (Required)