Finance Specialist: Group Planning

Group Planning is part of Group Financial Decision Support (Group FDS) and the Finance Specialist in this team supports the delivery of accurate, responsive and decision-useful forward-looking financial analysis at a Group level. The role contributes analytical input into in-year forecasts, peer benchmarking, medium-term plans, scenario analysis and executive reporting that inform senior leadership decision-making.

The operating environment is fast-moving and often ambiguous, requiring the Finance Specialist to demonstrate personal resilience, adaptability and strong learning mindset. The role demands the ability to manage shifting priorities, respond constructively to changing requirements and maintain delivery standards during peak planning cycles.

Working under guidance from senior team members, the Finance Specialist applies sound analytical judgement, attention to detail and collaboration skills to support planning outputs. Success in the role is reflected in the ability to remain effective under pressure, adapt quickly to change, support stakeholders and continuously build capacity (this includes understanding of the bank, the banking industry, stakeholder needs and planning processes and tools).

• Support the preparation and execution of Group planning deliverables, including revised annual forecasts (RAF), medium-term plan (MTP), group projections, scenario planning, peer benchmarking, briefing notes, stress testing and strategic execution plans.
• Perform financial analysis, data consolidation and scenario planning support under guidance, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Adapt analytical outputs in response to evolving assumptions, revised guidance or changing stakeholder requirements.
• Apply structured thinking and attention to detail when working with financial information, even under time pressure.
• Manage own deliverables effectively across multiple workstreams, meeting deadlines during peak planning periods.
• Remain focused and composed when priorities shift, demonstrating flexibility and a solutions-orientated mindset.
• Learn from feedback and experience, adjusting approach and improving outputs over time.
• Take ownership of assigned tasks, escalating issues early and constructively when support is required.
• Assist in the preparation of materials for Exco, senior management and committee engagements, including presentations and briefing notes.
• Attend meetings and forums to support senior colleagues, contributing analysis or insights where appropriate.
• Provide timely and accurate information to stakeholders such as Treasury, Risk, Financial Resource Management, Office of the CEO and the Productivity Programme, adapting formats to suit different needs.
• Work collaboratively within the Group Planning team and Group FDS, contributing positively to team effectiveness.
• Build productive working relationships with Business Unit Central FDS teams and other stakeholders through reliability and responsiveness.
• Demonstrate openness to different perspectives and willingness to adjust approach when required.
• Demonstrate curiosity and learning agility by building financial, analytical and business understanding.
• Embrace changes to planning processes, methodologies and tools, including new ways of working.
• Identify small-scale improvements to analysis, templates or processes and raise suggestions constructively.
• Perform all other duties as reasonably assigned.

• B-degree in accounting/ financial management (NQF level no.6)
• Three years technical experience (strategy and client coverage type roles are considered too far removed from the technical elements required for this role)
• CA (SA)
• One to two years’ experience as an audit manager or assistant audit manager at a Big 4 firm
• Financial accounting and analytical capability
• Strong attention to detail and data integrity
• Ability to manage deadlines and multiple deliverables concurrently
• Self-driven and good interpersonal skills
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills
• Knowledge of financial markets and economics
• Working knowledge of Power Query, Power Automate, Power BI or similar tools is advantageous