Executive Head: Business Banking SME Client Coverage

SME Business Banking refers to the part of a bank that provides financial products, services, and advisory support to small and medium Enterprises (SMEs), businesses that are larger than micro or informal enterprises but smaller than large corporates. At its core, SME Business Banking exists to enable SMEs to start, operate, grow, and scale sustainably, while managing the bank’s risk and capital exposure.

The Executive Head: Business Banking SME Client Coverage is accountable for end‑to‑end leadership of SME client relationship coverage across the Business Bank. The role ensures that small and medium enterprise (SME) clients receive effective, consistent, and scalable relationship management, driving sustainable portfolio growth, strong client relationships, and disciplined risk outcomes.

• Define and own the SME client coverage strategy, aligned to Business Banking growth and risk appetite.
• Develop and own the Pan-Africa SME Coverage Strategy aligned to Group and country business plans.
• Design and continuously evolve a scalable SME coverage model suited to differing market maturities.
• Lead strategic planning cycles including market prioritisation, growth targets, capability investment, channel strategy and capacity planning.
• Design and continuously refine the SME relationship management model.
• Ensure scalable, profitable SME coverage aligned to client complexity and value.
• Act as escalation point for relationship, service, or reputational risk.
• Ensure SME clients experience trusted, responsive, and relationship‑led banking.
• Accountable for SME portfolio performance including revenue growth, client acquisition and retention, portfolio profitability and sustainability.
• Oversee senior engagement with priority SME clients where required.
• Drive consistent execution of relationship‑management standards across regions and teams.

• 12+ years' experience in SME or business banking or financial services, including senior leadership roles in coverage, enablement, sales or strategy.
• Demonstrated track record of leading multi-country or regional banking operations.
• Exposure to cross‑functional and enterprise‑wide coordination.
• Deep understanding of South African Business Banking, credit, risk and regulatory frameworks.
• Master's Degree in Finance or relevant field of study.