Job Description

To provide strategic leadership, governance and oversight of the cost base across all FirstRand brands operating in Broader Africa. The role ensures transparent, consistent and value-driven cost management through effective transfer pricing, service level agreements, headcount and centre cost management, budgeting, forecasting and advanced cost allocation models.

Key Accountabilities

• Own and lead the cost management strategy for Broader Africa, aligned to Group Finance frameworks and governance standards.
• Provide executive oversight of centre cost bases, headcount, establishment control and productivity metrics across African operations.
• Design, implement and manage intercompany transfer pricing models in line with Group policy and regulatory requirements.
• Own and govern Service Level Agreements (SLAs) between countries, shared services and platforms, ensuring transparent cost recovery.
• Develop, run and continuously enhance HPCM costing models across all African entities to enable accurate cost allocation and profitability insight.
• Lead annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting and long-range planning processes for cost across Broader Africa.
• Deliver high-quality cost reporting, variance analysis and insights to senior management, forums and governance committees.
• Act as a strategic finance business partner to regional CFOs, Finance Heads and Executive Committees.
• Identify and drive cost optimisation and efficiency initiatives while supporting sustainable growth strategies.

People Management

• Lead and develop a high-performing cost management team across Broader Africa.
• The role is accountable for talent development, performance management, succession planning and embedding a strong culture of accountability, continuous improvement and collaboration in line with FirstRand values.

Governance, Risk and Compliance

• Ensure strong financial governance, controls and risk management over cost management processes.
• Maintain compliance with Group Finance policies, regulatory requirements and audit standards across all African entities.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of 8–10 years senior finance experience with at least 3–5 years in a leadership or Head-of role.
• Extensive experience in cost management, transfer pricing, cost allocation and shared services environments.
• Proven experience working in a multi-country or pan-African operating model.
• Sound understanding of financial services or banking environments.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and commercial acumen
• Strong leadership and people management capability
• Advanced analytical and financial modelling skills
• Executive stakeholder engagement and influence
• Strong governance and control mindset

Employment Equity

• All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand’s Employment Equity plan.
• FirstRand actively supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities and encourages disclosure to enable reasonable accommodation where required.

 

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.

06/05/26