Research Analyst

RMB Nigeria Ltd; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 80 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading investment bank is seeking a research analyst in South Africa to provide in-depth macroeconomic and sectoral research to inform investment decisions. The successful candidate will gather data, develop models, and prepare publications to enhance strategic insights. Ideal applicants will possess over 5 years of relevant experience, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in financial modeling tools. This role offers the opportunity to engage with high-level stakeholders while contributing to the firm's thought leadership.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in macroeconomic or sector research.
• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Finance, or related discipline.
• Demonstrable experience producing professional-grade research reports.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel and PowerPoint.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth macroeconomic and financial market research.
• Develop and maintain economic models and forecasts.
• Prepare timely research publications with actionable insights.
• Monitor global trends and identify risks/opportunities.

Skills

Macroeconomic research

Sector analysis

Data visualization

Economic modeling

Business writing

French language

Education

Bachelor's degree in Economics

Master's degree

CFA / FRM certification

Tools

MS Excel

PowerPoint

Analytical tools

Job description

Description

To provide independent and high-impact macroeconomic, sectoral, and market research to inform investment decisions, enhance origination efforts, support clients’ decision-making and strengthen RMBN’s thought leadership position in the Nigerian market.

Responsibilities

Conducting in-depth macroeconomic, financial market, and sectoral research to support RMBN’s credit, investment banking, markets, and treasury businesses.

Developing and maintaining economic models, forecasts, and databases tracking key indicators (GDP, inflation, exchange rates, interest rates, fiscal metrics, commodity prices, etc.).

Preparing timely research publications — including economic updates, market reports, thematic reports, and investment briefs — with clear, actionable insights where applicable.

Undertaking analysis, sector mapping, and policy impact assessments relevant to clients and strategic sectors (e.g., infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, agriculture, manufacturing, and financial services).

Supporting senior management and coverage teams with analytical input for client pitches and investor briefings.

Monitoring global and regional trends, identifying risks and opportunities for RMBN and its clients.

Liaising with regulators, MDAs, and data agencies to ensure data accuracy and regulatory insight.

Ensuring rigorous data integrity and consistency across research outputs.

Implementing best practices in analytical methodology, visualization, and presentation.

Supporting the development of RMBN’s thought leadership through participation in external forums, media engagements, and industry events.

Demonstrating a commitment to continuous personal improvement and encouraging the same in others.

Building and sustaining collaborative working relationships with relevant peers and stakeholders to achieve productivity synergies across the bank.

Experience & Qualifications

At least 5 years of work experience in macroeconomic or sector research, investment banking, asset management, or policy research environment.

A Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Finance, Statistics, or related quantitative discipline.

A Master’s degree, CFA / FRM certification, or progress toward same is advantageous.

Demonstrable experience producing professional-grade research reports, models, and market commentaries.

Advanced proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, and analytical tools.

Strong understanding of Nigeria’s macroeconomic and financial market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and sectoral drivers.

Understanding of macroeconomic and market dynamics in key West African markets, a plus.

Working knowledge of French is an advantage.

General Competencies

Strong quantitative and qualitative research capabilities.

Skilled in economic modeling, data interpretation, and scenario analysis.

Exceptional business writing and data visualization skills; able to distill complex insights into clear narratives.

Confident presenter — comfortable engaging technical, external or senior audiences.

Deep awareness of market trends, and investment implications as well as ability to translate research into actionable commercial insights.

Able to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality outputs under pressure.

Collaborative mindset and strong ethical grounding.

Legal & EEO

All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group’s Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.