Sub-Sector Head: Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)

About the role

Absa is seeking an experienced Corporate & Investment Banking professional to join as a principal-level Sub-Sector Head for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG). This senior, client-facing role works with the Global Consumer Sector Head and product partners to lead the strategy and commercial development of the sub-sector, drawing on senior client relationships to build a strong transaction pipeline and deliver integrated client solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Shape and execute sub-sector strategy, identifying market trends, risks and opportunities and turning them into commercial priorities.
• Build and deepen senior client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor and understanding clients' strategic and financing needs.
• Drive origination and revenue growth across lending, advisory, capital markets, treasury, trade finance and transaction banking.
• Lead complex transactions, partnering with M&A, DCM, ECM and other specialists to deliver integrated solutions.
• Build and manage a high-quality opportunity pipeline focused on conversion and risk-adjusted returns.
• Manage portfolio and sector risk, supporting credit assessment and alignment with risk appetite and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate across CIB with sector, product, risk, finance and regional/global teams.
• Develop talent by coaching and mentoring Relationship Managers, Associates and Analysts.

Required profile

• Honours or postgraduate qualification in Finance, Economics, Business or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8-12+ years in Corporate & Investment Banking, in a Senior Client Coverage role, as an M&A Investment Banker or in sell-side equity research with deep CPG specialisation.
• Demonstrable experience in client coverage, deal origination and/or sector-focused banking.
• Broad knowledge of CIB products and a track record of developing senior client relationships.

Required skills

• Deep expertise in the CPG sector and its value chain.
• Financial analysis, structuring and credit assessment.
• Strong commercial acumen, strategic thinking and revenue orientation.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across a complex, matrixed organisation.