Head : Agribusiness Sector

Absa Bank Limited; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 900 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A local bank in South Africa is seeking an experienced leader to head their Agriculture segment within Business Banking. This role focuses on developing the Agriculture Banking strategy, expanding client relationships, and managing risks in the agriculture sector. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of agri-finance, strong leadership skills, and significant experience in stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in agriculture finance or commercial agri-business.
• Proven leadership in managing large portfolios or sector-based teams.
• Demonstrated impact in stakeholder engagement and growth delivery.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute ABSA's Agriculture Banking strategy.
• Lead the expansion of ABSA's agricultural client base.
• Manage the identification and assessment of risks within the agricultural sector.

Skills

Strategic thinker

Strong leadership

Deep understanding of agri-finance

Excellent client engagement

Stakeholder management

Familiar with sector policy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture Economics

Master's degree in relevant field

Job description

Empowering Africa's tomorrow, together...one story at a time.With over 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 SummarySUMMARYABSA is looking for a seasoned leader to head our Agriculture segment within Business Banking.

If you're passionate about shaping the future of South Africa's food economy and partnering with one of the country's most critical sectors — this is your opportunity to lead with impact.Job DescriptionKEY RESPONSIBILITIESShape Sector StrategyDevelop and execute ABSA's Agriculture Banking strategy aligned to business objectives, market trends, and national development priorities.

Drive sustainability strategy for the sector, develop execution plans and drive execution of the sustainability strategy.Drive Growth and ValueLead the expansion of ABSA's agricultural client base, deepen relationships, and drive sustainable financial returns across the value chain — from emerging farmers to large agribusinesses.

Specific growth focus on Financial Inclusion (Transformation) and Secondary Agriculture.Lead Agri-InnovationCollaborate with product, digital, and credit teams to deliver fit-for-purpose, sector-relevant banking solutions, including climate-smart finance and ESG-aligned offerings.

Scan external environment for "fit for purpose" innovation (including digital) that could be used in agricultural lending environment (Remote Sensing etc)Engage and InfluenceRepresent ABSA at strategic industry platforms, government forums, and client engagements.

Build relationships with sector leaders, regulators, and development finance institutions.

Engagement with all internal and external stakeholders is important.Manage Risk ResponsiblyDrive the identification, assessment, and management of risks within the agricultural sector.

Ensure that risk frameworks are adhered to and that all sector activities comply with the relevant regulations and standards.Proactive communication is critical to manage all stakeholders around risk in the sector (emerging and current).

Develop Talent and LeadershipLead a team of sector specialists and relationship bankers.

Build future-fit capability in agricultural finance through coaching and strategic direction.SKILLSStrategic thinker with a commercial mindsetStrong leadership and sector influenceDeep understanding of agri-finance and South Africa's food value chainExcellent client engagement and stakeholder managementFamiliar with sector policy, climate resilience, and transformation imperativesMINIMUM REQUIREMENTSBachelor's degree in Agriculture Economics (Master's preferred)10+ years of experience in agriculture finance or commercial agri-businessProven leadership in managing large portfolios or sector-based teamsDemonstrated impact in stakeholder engagement and growth deliveryEducationBachelors Degree and Professional Qualifications : 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

• , 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