Lead Recruitment Partner - Financial Services

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Recruitment Partner to head our financial services division in Cape Town. You will guide a team of consultants, shape recruitment strategy, and drive business development with key clients in banking, insurance, and fintech.

The role demands substantial seniority, a track record of placing executives, and deep knowledge of South Africa's financial services landscape. Based in our Cape Town office, you’ll lead with impact and deliver exceptional talent solutions.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in recruitment with finance sector focus.
• Proven track record placing senior executives.
• Experience leading and managing a recruitment team.
• In-depth SA financial services knowledge and regulatory awareness.
• Strong business development and client relationship skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance or HR.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of recruitment consultants.
• Develop strategic recruitment plans aligned with client goals.
• Drive new business development to expand clients.
• Oversee end-to-end senior finance placements.
• Build long-term client relationships.
• Ensure best practices in candidate experience and ethics.

Skills

Leadership

Executive recruitment

Strategic planning

Financial services

Business development

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, HR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious recruitment consultancy, is seeking an accomplished Lead Recruitment Partner to spearhead their financial services division in Cape Town, Western Cape . This is a critical leadership position responsible for managing a team of consultants and driving business development within the highly competitive financial sector. You will be expected to cultivate strong client relationships, understand their strategic hiring needs, and deliver exceptional talent solutions. This role requires a deep understanding of the financial services industry in South Africa , coupled with outstanding leadership and strategic recruitment capabilities. Based in our client's modern Cape Town office, this is an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant impact and shape the future of recruitment in this key market. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of strategic vision, operational excellence, and a commitment to achieving ambitious targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of recruitment consultants focused on the financial services sector.
• Develop and execute strategic recruitment plans in alignment with client objectives and market demands.
• Drive business development initiatives to expand the client base within the financial services industry.
• Oversee the end-to-end recruitment process for senior-level and specialist roles in banking, insurance, investment management, and fintech.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key stakeholders at client organizations.
• Conduct market analysis to identify emerging trends, talent pools, and competitive landscapes.
• Ensure the team adheres to best practices in candidate experience, diversity and inclusion, and ethical recruitment standards.
• Achieve and exceed team performance and revenue targets for the financial services division.
• Represent the company at industry events and networking functions in Cape Town .

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in recruitment, with a significant focus on the financial services sector.
• Proven track record of successfully placing senior executive and specialist roles within finance.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing a recruitment team.
• In-depth knowledge of the financial services industry in South Africa , including regulatory environments.
• Exceptional business development and client relationship management skills.
• Strong understanding of talent market dynamics and recruitment technologies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities.
• A Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Human Resources, or a related discipline.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to the Cape Town, Western Cape area.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial base salary, performance-based bonuses, and lucrative commission structures. Our client provides a stimulating work environment, opportunities for executive leadership development, and a chance to work with a high-performing team in the scenic city of Cape Town . You will be part of an established firm with a strong reputation and a clear vision for growth. Further benefits include professional development support and access to cutting-edge recruitment tools. Experience the unique professional culture of the Western Cape .