Executive Assistant (Research)

About the role

FNB is looking for an Executive Assistant with a strong research focus to join its Johannesburg team. It is not a traditional administrative role but a high-level strategic position for an ambitious professional in a fast-paced banking environment. The person acts as a key partner to executive leadership, helping shape business strategy through rigorous research, project management and cross-functional collaboration.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the roll-out of business plans and coordinate end-to-end execution of strategic projects, aligning internal and external resources.
• Conduct in-depth local and international banking research, including competitor benchmarking and sector analysis, to provide evidence-based insights.
• Develop and maintain dashboard metrics, review financial results and prepare detailed documentation for Executive Committee (Exco) meetings.
• Facilitate working relationships across functions and liaise with internal and external advisors.
• Monitor action items from leadership meetings, track project progress and resolve operational or technical issues as they arise.
• Produce high-quality documentation such as executive reports, speeches and briefing notes, and monitor internal financial performance against forecasts.

Required profile

• Economics-related degree (minimum); a relevant post-graduate qualification is preferred.
• At least two years of experience as an Economic Analyst.
• CA (SA) or CFA designation is mandatory for specific focus areas within the role.
• Ability to cut to the core of large volumes of data and prioritise what matters for the business's strategic agenda.
• Strong interpersonal skills, commitment to teamwork and inclusivity, and ability to influence outcomes across levels of the organisation.

What we offer

• A clear trajectory toward becoming a full-fledged economist or strategic lead in the banking sector.
• Competitive market-related packages, including performance bonuses and structured corporate benefits.
• Potential for long-term career growth within the FirstRand Group and across financial services portfolios.