Senior Project Manager - Financial Services Transformation

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Performance-based bonus

Retirement fund contributions

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Senior Project Manager to lead critical transformation initiatives in a major financial institution based in Randburg, Gauteng. You will direct full project lifecycles, from planning and stakeholder engagement to execution and delivery, with emphasis on digital enhancements and regulatory compliance.

The role requires 8+ years in project management within financial services, strong leadership, and deep regulatory knowledge (FAIS, FICA, POPIA).

Qualifications

• 8+ years progressive experience in project management with emphasis on financial services.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale transformation programs across digital, operational, or regulatory domains.
• Strong regulatory understanding (e.g., FAIS, FICA, POPIA) and financial services knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of major transformation projects within financial services.
• Define scope, objectives, deliverables, and success metrics aligned to business goals.
• Develop detailed project plans with timelines, budgets, resources and risk mitigation.
• Manage cross-functional teams and ensure clear communication channels.
• Engage senior stakeholders and external partners to drive project success.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and adherence to industry standards.
• Oversee technology implementations and process improvements for efficiency.
• Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare status reports and analyses for executive leadership.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Regulatory knowledge

Budget management

Risk management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Information Technology, or related field

MBA or PMP/FRM certification

Tools

MS Project

Jira

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial institution, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Project Manager to lead critical transformation initiatives within their business. This role, based in the bustling hub of Randburg, Gauteng , will be instrumental in driving projects that enhance digital offerings, optimize operational processes, and ensure regulatory compliance. You will manage the full project lifecycle, from strategic planning and stakeholder engagement to execution and successful delivery. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the financial services industry, a proven track record of managing complex change programs, and exceptional leadership qualities. This is a pivotal role in shaping the future of the organization's service delivery and competitive edge.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful completion of major transformation projects within the financial services sector.
• Define project scope, objectives, deliverables, and success metrics, aligning with strategic business goals.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, resources, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Manage cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring clear communication channels.
• Engage and manage relationships with key stakeholders, including senior management, business units, and external partners.
• Ensure adherence to stringent regulatory requirements and compliance standards specific to the financial industry.
• Oversee the implementation of new technologies and process improvements, driving operational efficiency.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks or issues, and implement corrective actions promptly.
• Prepare and present comprehensive project status reports and performance analyses to executive leadership.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in project management, with a substantial focus on the financial services industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale transformation projects, including digital, operational, or regulatory initiatives.
• Strong understanding of financial products, services, and the regulatory landscape (e.g., FAIS, FICA, POPIA).
• Proven experience with project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall, Hybrid).
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Jira) and financial modeling tools.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Experience managing significant project budgets and complex resource plans.
• A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Information Technology, or a related field is required.
• An MBA or relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, FRM) are highly valued.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a performance-based bonus structure, and retirement fund contributions.
• This role provides a significant opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of a leading financial institution in Randburg.
• We are committed to employee growth, offering extensive training and development programs.
• Join a dynamic team and play a key role in driving innovation and excellence within the financial services sector.