FinTech Innovation Strategist Job Vacancy in Mafikeng Banking and Financial Services

Position:

Fin Tech Innovation Strategist

Company:

Absa Group Limited

Location:

Mafikeng, South Africa

Experience:

5+ years in fintech product development

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Computer Science or related field

Employment Type:

Full-time

Industry:Banking and Financial Services

Department:

Innovation & Digital Banking

Salary:

R600,000 – R900,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Absa Group Limited is a leading African financial services provider with a strong presence across South Africa and the continent. With a heritage of over a century, Absa delivers innovative banking solutions, digital platforms, and customer‑centric services that empower individuals, businesses, and communities. The bank’s commitment to technology‑driven transformation makes it a premier destination for professionals seeking to shape the future of finance.

As part of its strategic focus on digital disruption, Absa continuously invests in fintech partnerships, data analytics, and agile product development to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. This role offers a unique opportunity to join a forward‑thinking team that drives the creation of cutting‑edge financial products, enhances customer experiences, and contributes to the broader economic growth of South Africa.

For more information about Absa’s vision and career pathways, visit the main website.

The Fin Tech Innovation Strategist will lead the conception, design, and launch of next‑generation digital payment solutions that align with Absa’s strategic objectives. Reporting to the Head of Innovation, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams—including product, engineering, risk, compliance, and marketing—to identify market gaps, develop business cases, and drive product roadmaps. This role is pivotal in translating emerging fintech trends into actionable strategies that deliver measurable value for customers and the bank.

You will also act as a liaison with external fintech partners, regulators, and industry bodies to ensure seamless integration and compliance.

• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to uncover opportunities in digital payments, blockchain, and open banking.
• Develop comprehensive business cases, financial models, and go‑to‑market strategies for new fintech products.
• Lead agile product development cycles, from ideation through prototype, testing, and launch.
• Collaborate with technology teams to define product specifications, user journeys, and integration requirements.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and risk mitigation throughout the product lifecycle.
• Manage relationships with fintech startups, technology vendors, and industry consortia.
• Monitor product performance, gather user feedback, and iterate to enhance functionality and adoption.
• Present strategic recommendations and progress updates to senior leadership and board committees.

• Strong understanding of fintech ecosystems, digital payments, and emerging technologies such as blockchain and AI.
• Proven experience in product strategy, roadmap development, and agile methodologies.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to build robust financial models.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Knowledge of South African banking regulations, AML, and data protection standards.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline is required. Advanced qualifications such as an MBA, MSc in Financial Technology, or relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Scrum Product Owner) are highly desirable.

Minimum of five years of experience in fintech product development, digital banking, or…