Relationship Executive - Small Business (Agri)

Absa Group; Beaufort West; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services group in South Africa is seeking a Relationship Manager to optimize the profit and economic value of a portfolio of Small Business clients, primarily in the Agricultural sector. The ideal candidate will have strong relationship management skills, experience in business banking, and the ability to develop tailored financial solutions. This role offers an opportunity to make a significant impact in the Agricultural market and drive business growth.

Benefits

Equal opportunity workplace

Professional development programs

Qualifications

• 3-5 years' experience in relationship management or business banking, preferably with agricultural clients.
• Ability to develop bespoke financial solutions for the agricultural sector.
• Strong understanding of credit principles and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Manage relationships with Small Business key account clients in the Agricultural sector.
• Develop financial solutions suited to the agricultural value chain.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Skills

Client relationship management

Negotiation skills

Financial analysis

Risk management

Commercial acumen

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance, Agriculture or related field

Job description

Job Summary

Optimise the profit and economic value of a portfolio of Small Business key account clients — with a particular focus on clients within the Agricultural sector — who require low to medium complexity commercial banking solutions. The role focuses on:

• a) origination efforts to acquire new clients;
• b) cross-selling and deepening relationships within the existing client base; and
• c) providing dedicated relationship coverage and tailored financial solutions in line with the Small Business segment’s Customer Value Proposition (CVP).

While the primary focus will be on clients in the Agri market, the portfolio may include clients from other sectors as required.

Job Description

1. Relationship Management

• Act as the primary relationship owner for clients, serving as their central point of contact for all commercial and investment banking needs.
• Build strong, long-term relationships with clients in the Agricultural sector, understanding their unique business cycles, financing needs, and market dynamics.
• Engage regularly with clients to identify opportunities to support business growth and sustainability through the bank’s products and service.

2. Client Solutioning

• Take overall accountability for service delivery by coordinating across the cross-functional team — including Transactional Banking, Credit, Client Control, Client Service, and Product/Sector specialists.
• Develop bespoke financial solutions suited to the agricultural value chain (e.g., working capital, asset finance, seasonal facilities, and risk management products).
• Ensure all solutions align with both client requirements and the bank’s risk appetite and profitability goals.

3. Portfolio & Risk Management

• Manage the risk profile of the client portfolio through regular assessments, monitoring, and proactive engagement.
• Maintain a sound understanding of the bank’s regulatory and compliance frameworks as well as industry-specific legislation affecting the agricultural sector.
• Ensure timely credit reviews, compliance checks, and risk mitigation strategies are implemented.

4. Business Development & Growth

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the agricultural value chain (e.g., primary producers, processors, agri-input suppliers, and agri-related SMEs).
• Leverage internal and external networks to grow the portfolio and enhance the bank’s footprint in the Agri market.
• Drive client acquisition and retention by delivering on the segment’s CVP and maintaining high client satisfaction levels.

5. Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal partners and external stakeholders to strengthen the bank’s position in the market.
• Provide insights on market trends, sector performance, and policy changes impacting the agricultural sector.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance, Agriculture, or related field (preferred).
• 3–5 years’ experience in relationship management or business banking, with exposure to agricultural or commercial client portfolios.
• Strong understanding of credit principles, financial analysis, and risk management.
• Proven track record in client acquisition, cross-selling, and portfolio growth.

Competencies

• Deep understanding of the agricultural sector, including value chains and seasonal business cycles.
• Strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
• Sound commercial acumen with the ability to identify growth opportunities.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with attention to detail.

Education

Bachelors 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 1998, 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 posi…