Team Lead Trade Operations

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

With over 100 years of rich history and strongly positioned as a local bank with regional and international expertise, a career with our family offers the opportunity to be part of this exciting growth journey, to reset our future and shape our destiny as a proudly African group.

Job Summary

We are looking for a results-driven Team Lead: Trade Operations to oversee the delivery of Trade & Working Capital services. This role is critical in driving operational excellence, leading high performing teams, and delivering exceptional client service in a fast-paced, high volume environment.

Operations Management

• Manage end-to-end Trade Operations processes, ensuring timely and accurate delivery
• Monitor workflows, allocate work, and optimise resources to meet demanding SLAs
• Ensure all transactions are processed in line with quality standards, policies, and procedures
• Track volumes, productivity, and turnaround times, taking corrective action where needed
• Maintain effective process documentation and operational standards

Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing operations team
• Drive performance, productivity, and continuous skills development
• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement
• Manage performance through clear goals, feedback, and development interventions

Client Service Excellence

• Ensure delivery of exceptional service to internal and external clients
• Resolve complex queries, disputes, and escalations (e.g. documentary discrepancies, interbank claims)
• Identify opportunities to improve client experience and transaction processes

Risk & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to regulatory and compliance requirements (FICA, Exchange Control, BOP, sanctions)
• Monitor controls to mitigate operational risk and prevent losses
• Support audits, risk reviews, and investigations
• Embed strong governance and compliance practices in daily operations

Continuous Improvement

• Drive initiatives to improve efficiency, scalability, and service delivery
• Identify process gaps and implement enhancements
• Partner with product and onboarding teams to improve client outcomes

Experience & Qualifications

• Diploma / NQF Level 5 (or equivalent)
• 5+ years’ experience in Trade & Working Capital
• 2+ years in a supervisory or team lead role
• Strong understanding of Trade Operations and product lifecycle

Skills

• Proven people leadership and coaching capability
• Strong operational and risk management expertise
• Ability to manage high volumes in a high pressure environment
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills
• Strong communication and problem solving abilities
• High attention to detail and commercial awareness

Education

Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: 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