Relationship Executive - Small Business (FAIS)

Empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together…one story at a time.

Job Summary

Optimise the profit and economic value of a portfolio of Small Business key account clients — with a particular focus on clients within the Agricultural sector — who require low to medium complexity commercial banking solutions. The role focuses on:
a) origination efforts to acquire new clients;
b) cross-selling and deepening relationships within the existing client base; and
c) providing dedicated relationship coverage and tailored financial solutions in line with the Small Business segment’s Customer Value Proposition (CVP).
While the primary focus will be on clients in the Agri market, the portfolio may include clients from other sectors as required.

Job Description

1. Relationship Management

• Act as the primary relationship owner for clients, serving as their central point of contact for all commercial and investment banking needs.
• Build strong, long-term relationships with clients in the Agricultural sector, understanding their unique business cycles, financing needs, and market dynamics.
• Engage regularly with clients to identify opportunities to support business growth and sustainability through the bank’s products and services.

 

 

2. Client Solutioning

• Take overall accountability for service delivery by coordinating across the cross-functional team — including Transactional Banking, Credit, Client Control, Client Service, and Product/Sector specialists.
• Develop bespoke financial solutions suited to the agricultural value chain (e.g., working capital, asset finance, seasonal facilities, and risk management products).
• Ensure all solutions align with both client requirements and the bank’s risk appetite and profitability goals.

 

3. Portfolio & Risk Management

• Manage the risk profile of the client portfolio through regular assessments, monitoring, and proactive engagement.
• Maintain a sound understanding of the bank’s regulatory and compliance frameworks as well as industry-specific legislation affecting the agricultural sector.
• Ensure timely credit reviews, compliance checks, and risk mitigation strategies are implemented.

 

4. Business Development & Growth

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the agricultural value chain (e.g., primary producers, processors, agri-input suppliers, and agri-related SMEs).
• Leverage internal and external networks to grow the portfolio and enhance the bank’s footprint in the Agri market.
• Drive client acquisition and retention by delivering on the segment’s CVP and maintaining high client satisfaction levels.

 

5. Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal partners and external stakeholders to strengthen the bank’s position in the market.
• Provide insights on market trends, sector performance, and policy changes impacting the agricultural sector.

 

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance, Agriculture, or related field (preferred).
• 3–5 years’ experience in relationship management or business banking, with exposure to agricultural or commercial client portfolios.
• Strong understanding of credit principles, financial analysis, and risk management.
• Proven track record in client acquisition, cross-selling, and portfolio growth.

 

Competencies

• Deep understanding of the agricultural sector, including value chains and seasonal business cycles.
• Strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
• Sound commercial acumen with the ability to identify growth opportunities.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with attention to detail.

 

Values and Culture

• Champion the bank’s commitment to supporting inclusive economic growth, especially within the agricultural and small business sectors.
• Uphold ethical standards and act as a trusted advisor to clients and colleagues.
• Promote teamwork, collaboration, and innovation in delivering client solutions.

 

Education

Bachelors Degree and Professional Qualifications: Business, Commerce and Management Studies (Required)

Absa Bank Limited is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the Bank.

Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised