FirstRand is seeking a seasoned Senior Project Manager to join their team in Johannesburg. This role is a strategic appointment for someone who thrives on complexity and can bridge the gap between technical data and high-level business storytelling. You will be responsible for guiding projects from the initial conceptualisation phase through to full operationalisation, ensuring that every deliverable aligns with the broader goals of the FirstRand Group.

About the role

As a Senior Project Manager, you will serve as a central point of contact for project lifecycles, balancing financial oversight with resource management. Success in this position requires a blend of rigorous methodology and soft-skill proficiency. You won't just be managing spreadsheets; you will be responsible for defining project scope, managing stakeholders, and implementing change management protocols to ensure that new processes are adopted seamlessly across the organisation.

Your day-to-day work will involve:

• Developing and maintaining comprehensive project plans, including timelines, procurement needs, and budget tracking.
• Building cross-functional relationships to drive collaboration, innovation, and efficient service delivery.
• Acting as a technical coach for team members, providing guidance on performance and project execution.
• Ensuring all project documentation is audit-ready and compliant with internal governance frameworks.
• Defining and communicating clear success criteria to all stakeholders to ensure transparency throughout the project lifecycle.

What they're looking for

The ideal candidate for this position brings a solid foundation in both IT and project management theory, backed by specific experience in the financial services sector. Because this role involves high-stakes initiatives within the payments space, industry-specific expertise is essential.

• **Qualifications:** You must hold a diploma (NQF 6) or equivalent in Information Systems, Business Analysis, or IT. Professional certification such as PRINCE2 or CAPM is required. A postgraduate degree is considered a significant advantage.
• **Experience:** A minimum of 5 to 7 years in a project management environment is required, including at least 3 years of focused experience in Payments or Merchant Acquiring.
• **Technical Proficiency:** Hands-on experience with PowerCARD (HPS) configuration, workflows, or integration is a mandatory requirement for this role.
• **Methodology:** Proficiency in both Agile and traditional project management frameworks, along with a firm grasp of basic accounting and financial management principles.
• **Communication:** Exceptional verbal and presentation skills are critical, as you will be responsible for translating complex project insights into narratives that guide strategic decision-making.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work within a major financial institution at the intersection of payment technology and strategic planning. In the South African job market, Senior Project Management roles within the banking sector typically command highly competitive packages, often reflecting the seniority and the specialized technical knowledge (such as PowerCARD expertise) required.

Candidates should note that FirstRand is committed to the principles of Employment Equity. If you have a disability, you are encouraged to disclose this voluntarily to ensure that appropriate support is provided during the recruitment process. Given the technical nature and the scope of responsibility, this position is an excellent stepping stone for those looking to transition into more senior programme management or digital transformation leadership roles within the South African fintech ecosystem.

Requirements:

• Minimum Qualification - Project Management Diploma or Project management accreditation or certification: CAPM, PRINCE 2 Management Systems, IT, STEM or equivalent
• Preferred Qualification - Post Graduate Degree Project management
• 5 to 7 years relevant experience in a project environment
• Education: Diploma (NQF 6 or equivalent) in Information Systems, Business Analysis, IT, or related.
• Experience: 3+ years specifically in Payments/Merchant Acquiring.
• Platforms: Hands-on exposure to PowerCARD (HPS)—configuration, workflows, or integration (must-have).
• Agile and/or traditional project management skills
• Basic accounting and financial management skills
• Knowledge of the full Microsoft Office suite
• Knowledge of project tracking and enablement tools

Important Closing Date Note

Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below.