Junior Investment Banker: Resource and Project Finance

Absa is seeking a driven and experienced individual to join its Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) division as a Junior Investment Banker within the Resource and Project Finance (RPF) team. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to financing vital infrastructure and resource projects across the African continent, playing a crucial role in the bank's mission to empower Africa's future.

The RPF team at Absa is at the forefront of identifying, structuring, and executing complex financing opportunities. This role offers a chance to be involved in the entire lifecycle of project finance transactions, from initial client engagement through to financial close. As a junior member of this specialist team, you will be instrumental in supporting senior bankers, gaining exposure to diverse projects, and developing your expertise in a dynamic and impactful sector.

About the Role

As a Junior Investment Banker in Resource and Project Finance, your primary function will be to support the team in the origination and meticulous execution of transactions. This involves developing and nurturing relationships with both existing and prospective clients, guiding them from initial discussions through to the successful financial close of their projects.

A key aspect of the role includes contributing to the strategic execution of the business plan for the RPF area. This may involve assisting in the development of strategies, client segmentation approaches, marketing plans, and defining execution criteria to ensure the RPF team and the broader CIB division meet their performance objectives.

The responsibilities for this position are varied and demanding, requiring a proactive and analytical approach. You will be actively involved in:

• **Transaction Support:** Providing comprehensive support throughout the origination and execution phases of resource and project finance transactions.
• **Client Engagement:** Building and maintaining relationships with clients, acting as a key point of contact during the transaction process.
• **Due Diligence:** Conducting in-depth due diligence on transactions, which includes the critical review and analysis of financial, legal, commercial, and technical reports.
• **Transaction Management:** Facilitating smooth client, bank, and advisor interactions, ensuring the efficient progression of deals.
• **Execution Support:** Assisting in all facets of deal execution, from initial approach to financial close, strictly adhering to the Bank's risk appetite and compliance frameworks.
• **Documentation and Negotiation:** Supporting the preparation of term sheets and engaging in the negotiation of loan documentation.
• **Credit Analysis:** Preparing credit analyses and compiling relevant documentation for review and approval by credit committees.
• **Marketing and Pitching:** Developing and presenting marketing materials and pitches to target clients.
• **Cross-Selling:** Identifying opportunities to introduce and cross-sell other Absa banking products and services to clients.
• **Portfolio Management:** Assisting in the ongoing management of existing transactions, including credit reviews, waivers, and amendments.
• **Strategic Contribution:** Contributing to the delivery of the team's strategy and enhancing the Bank's profile within the market.
• **Mentorship:** Assisting in the management, mentoring, and development of more junior team members.

What They're Looking For

To be successful in this role, candidates will need a robust academic background combined with substantial practical experience. Essential qualifications and attributes include:

• A University Degree or equivalent qualification, ideally within Business, Commerce, or Management Studies. Professional qualifications would be advantageous.
• A minimum of 3-7 years of relevant experience in power or infrastructure finance. A proven track record of successfully structuring and executing financings for both corporate and project finance deals is crucial.
• A deep understanding of typical structures employed in project finance and corporate facilities.
• In-depth knowledge of the power or infrastructure sectors is non-negotiable.
• Strong credit and financial analysis skills, complemented by excellent financial modelling capabilities.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team, while also demonstrating the capacity to work independently when required.
• Excellent oral, written, and presentation communication skills.
• A demonstrable track record of successfully delivering initiatives and solutions in high-pressure environments.

This role is ideal for a candidate passionate about finance and infrastructure development in Africa, with a strong analytical mindset and a commitment to excellence. Experience within the South African financial landscape, particularly in Sandton, will be beneficial. While specific salary details are not provided, roles of this nature in South Africa typically offer competitive remuneration packages, reflecting the specialised skills and responsibilities involved. Career progression within Absa's CIB division can be substantial, offering opportunities to grow into more senior financing and advisory roles.

 

Qualifications:

 

•    University Degree or equivalent with professional qualifications

•    3-7+ years of experience in power or infrastructure finance with proven track record of financings across both corporate and project financings.

•    Demonstrable understanding of typical structures used in project finance, and corporate facilities.

•    In-depth knowledge of the power or infrastructure sector

•    Strong credit and financial analysis / financial modelling skills.

•    Good team player with an ability to work independently when required.

•    Strong communication skills - oral, written and presentation.

•    Strong track record in delivering initiatives and solutions in a high-pressure environment.

 

 

Education

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