Analyst Liquidity Risk

Absa is seeking a dedicated Analyst to join their Funding and Liquidity Management team, a critical function within the Group Treasury. This role is instrumental in safeguarding the bank's financial stability by ensuring adequate funding and adherence to stringent liquidity risk management objectives. The successful candidate will play a vital part in formulating and executing Absa Group's overall funding strategy, a task that demands a keen understanding of regulatory requirements, the bank's risk appetite, and the preparedness for potential liquidity crises.

About the Role

The core purpose of this position is to mitigate liquidity risk and ensure that Absa Bank and its associated entities are appropriately funded to support strategic growth initiatives. This involves a multi-faceted approach encompassing reporting, financial analysis, and a deep engagement with the business context surrounding liquidity and funding. The Analyst will be at the forefront of providing the insights and data necessary for senior management to make informed decisions, thereby maintaining the financial health and regulatory compliance of the organisation.

The responsibilities of the Analyst are broad and cover several key areas:

• **Liquidity Risk and Funding Reporting:**
• Compile and submit essential daily and monthly liquidity regulatory reports and analytical packages to the relevant authorities.
• Respond accurately and promptly to queries posed by the Regulator.
• Generate a variety of internal reports designed to monitor, manage, and mitigate liquidity risk effectively.
• Develop and maintain funding and liquidity dashboards and reports for presentation at committee meetings, enabling senior management to make strategic decisions.
• Prepare comprehensive funding and liquidity reports for rating agencies, Pillar 3 disclosures, and other external stakeholders.

• **Financial Modelling and Analysis:**
• Lead and execute initiatives aimed at optimising liquidity and funding ratios and associated processes.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of key liquidity metrics and ratios, including trend analysis, competitor benchmarking, and forecasting.
• Collect, scrutinise, and consolidate financial information from Absa's Regional Operations to support monthly Group-level liquidity risk reporting.
• Undertake an annual review of the assumptions underpinning liquidity reporting to ensure their continued relevance and appropriateness.

• **Business Context and Stakeholder Engagement:**
• Cultivate and maintain a robust internal network across various business units within Absa Bank and within the broader Group Treasury.
• Continuously develop and deepen an understanding of the methodologies employed in managing liquidity and funding risk.
• Provide essential support during meetings with auditors, rating agencies, and other external parties.
• Assist in the preparation of presentations on topics related to liquidity risk and funding for diverse audiences.

What They're Looking For

Candidates applying for this Analyst position should possess a strong academic foundation and relevant practical experience. An undergraduate degree in Mathematics, Finance, or Risk Management is a prerequisite. Prior experience within the banking sector, with a preference for a Treasury environment, is highly advantageous. Crucially, the role demands proficiency in data manipulation, coupled with an innovative and problem-solving mindset.

Essential skills and competencies include:

• A broad understanding of the banking industry and its operations.
• The ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• A solid grasp of financial markets and their dynamics.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, particularly Excel.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong numerical and analytical capabilities.
• Clear and concise communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proven ability in building and nurturing professional relationships.
• Adaptability and resilience in responding to change.
• A proactive approach to driving improvements and optimising processes.
• A clear understanding and appreciation of governance and control frameworks.

A postgraduate degree or relevant professional qualification in Financial Sciences would be considered a significant asset.

In South Africa, roles in liquidity risk analysis within large banking institutions typically offer competitive remuneration packages, reflecting the specialised skills and critical nature of the work. Absa, as a major financial services group, is a prominent employer for such positions, offering considerable opportunities for professional development and career progression within treasury and risk management functions. The career path often involves moving into more senior analytical roles, management positions, or specialising further in areas like regulatory capital or treasury operations.

Education and Experience Required

·       Relevant degree in Maths/Finance/Risk Management

·       Prior banking experience (Treasury environment preferable)

·       The role requires the suited candidate to be skilled in data manipulation

Knowledge & Skills:

·       Innovative thinker/problem solver

·       Broad understanding of banking

·       Ability to work well under pressure

·       Understanding of financial markets

·       Proficient in Microsoft Office

Competencies:  

·       Attention to detail

·       Strong numerical capability

·       Clear communication skills

·       Relationship building and networking

·       Adapting and responding to change

·       Driving change and strong desire to improve processes

·       Affinity and understanding of governance and control environment

 

Education

Postgraduate Degrees and Professional Qualifications: Financial Sciences (Required)