Global Markets - Operational Analyst - Johannesburg

OUR IMPACT

Operations is a dynamic, multi-faceted division that partners with all parts of the firm to deliver banking, sales and trading and asset management capabilities to clients around the world. In addition, Operations provides essential risk management and control to preserve and enhance the firm’s assets and its reputation. For every trade agreed, every new product launched, or market entered, every transaction completed, it is Operations that develops the processes and controls that makes business flow.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Global Markets Operations Analyst supports the end‑to‑end lifecycle of Global Markets transactions with a strong focus on accuracy, risk awareness, and control execution. The role is execution‑focused, operating within a SOX‑controlled environment, and provides exposure to complex financial products, regulatory requirements, and a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.

The Operations function operates within a front‑to‑back integrated environment, partnering closely with Trading, Sales, Controllers, Risk, Technology, and external market infrastructures to support the full trade lifecycle. Analysts are expected to develop an understanding of both upstream trading activity and downstream settlement, control, and reporting processes to ensure seamless processing, effective risk management, and timely issue resolution across the value chain.

As the operating model continues to evolve, the team increasingly leverages automation, data analytics, and AI‑enabled tools to streamline workflows, enhance control effectiveness, and reduce manual processing. The role therefore requires engagement with process optimisation initiatives and the use of firm‑approved digital and AI implementation tools to improve efficiency, data quality, and operational resilience. Experience or exposure to automation, AI, or digital workflow solutions is advantageous, as Analysts are encouraged to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives alongside core BAU responsibilities.

This position is well suited to a detail‑oriented individual who thrives in a fast‑paced, highly regulated environment and is comfortable balancing daily operational delivery with control, risk, and change‑the‑business activities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

TRADE LIFECYCLE SUPPORT

• Perform and support end-to-end operational processes across Global Markets products, including FX, Derivatives, and Bonds.
• Execute/Oversee daily settlement activities with a focus on JSE Bonds settlement, exchange controls, and cross-border transactions.
• Investigate and resolve settlement issues and breaks in a timely manner to minimise operational risk.

STAKEHOLDER & CLIENT SUPPORT

• Liaise with internal stakeholders such as Trading, Sales, Controllers, Risk, and Technology to ensure smooth operational flows.
• Support client interactions by responding to operational queries and providing documentation where required.
• Assist with regulatory-related requests and submissions under the guidance of senior team members.

CONTROLS, RISK & GOVERNANCE

• Execute operational controls in line with SOX and internal governance standards.
• Support control evidence gathering, documentation, and maintenance within firm control tools.
• Identify, monitor, and escalate operational risks, breaks, and control issues in a timely manner.
• Assist with internal reviews, audits, and regulatory examinations as required.

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE & CHANGE

• Identify opportunities for process improvement and operational efficiencies.
• Participate in initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing controls, reducing manual processes, and improving data quality.
• Support implementation of procedural updates resulting from regulatory, risk, or business changes.

DOCUMENTATION & REPORTING

• Maintain clear and accurate procedures, process documentation, and operational records.
• Produce regular and ad-hoc management, risk, and regulatory reporting.
• Ensure documentation and evidence is audit-ready and aligned to firm standards.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in commerce (BCom) or a related field.
• Strong understanding of financial markets, products, and the Global Markets trade lifecycle.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines in a high-pressure environment.
• 1–2 years’ experience in an Operations, Trade Support, Middle Office, or control-focused role. 
• Familiarity with settlement processes, reconciliations, and issue resolution within financial markets. 
• Exposure to control execution, audits, or regulatory processes is advantageous.
• JSE Bonds Settlement certification is preferred or will be required within an agreed timeframe.
• Strong ownership mindset with a proactive approach to risk identification and escalation.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow within a highly regulated and evolving operating environment.

EXPERIENCE:

• 1–2 years’ experience in an Operations, Trade Support, Middle Office, or control-focused role. 
• Familiarity with settlement processes, reconciliations, and issue resolution within financial markets. 
• Exposure to control execution, audits, or regulatory processes is advantageous.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• JSE Bonds Settlement certification is preferred or will be required within an agreed timeframe.
• Strong ownership mindset with a proactive approach to risk identification and escalation.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow within a highly regulated and evolving operating environment.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT 

The role provides strong foundational exposure to Global Markets products, operational risk management, and firmwide control frameworks. High-performing Analysts will have opportunities for professional development and progression to Associate-level roles.

ABOUT GOLDMAN SACHS

At Goldman Sachs, we commit our people, capital and ideas to help our clients, shareholders and the communities we serve to grow. Founded in 1869, we are a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm. Headquartered in New York, we maintain offices around the world.

We believe who you are makes you better at what you do. We're committed to fostering and advancing diversity and inclusion in our own workplace and beyond by ensuring every individual within our firm has a number of opportunities to grow professionally and personally, from our training and development opportunities and firmwide networks to benefits, wellness and personal finance offerings and mindfulness programs. Learn more about our culture, benefits, and people at GS.com/careers.

We’re committed to finding reasonable accommodations for candidates with special needs or disabilities during our recruiting process. Learn more: https://www.goldmansachs.com/careers/footer/disability-statement.html

© The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., 2026. All rights reserved. Goldman Sachs is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, veterans status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.