Title:  Senior Specialist: Specialised Innovation

Requisition Details & Talent Acquisition Contact

Requisition Number:145739

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng

Closing Date: 11 May 2026

Talent Acquisition Specialist: Noli Madikane

Job Family

Project, Process and Product

Career Stream

Product

Leadership Pipeline

Manage Self: Expert (MSE)

Job Purpose

To lead the innovation process focused risk management for Web3 product development. This person will need to embed the Group Risk Framework into the product day to day operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enabling the development of secure, compliant banking solutions. This role provides expert guidance on risk, legal, and compliance requirements, and translating it into executable processes that aligns to emerging technologies. The role also plays a critical part in shaping how new, non-traditional business models are integrated into a regulated banking environment.

People Specification

• Strong understanding of blockchain, smart contracts, cryptocurrencies, and Web3 security principles
• Proven experience in risk identification, assessment, and mitigation within financial, regulatory, or technology environments
• Solid knowledge of cybersecurity, cryptography, and vulnerability management Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex information
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Good understanding of governance, legal, compliance, and regulatory frameworks, including digital assets
• Strong knowledge of the payments ecosystem, rails, and regulatory landscape in South Africa and relevant jurisdictions 

Job Responsibilities

Strategic Responsibilities: 

• Risk Assessment and Identification: Identify, assess, and analyse potential risks within Web3 projects, including security vulnerabilities, market fluctuations, legal and regulatory issues, and operational risks. 
• Risk Mitigation: Develop and implement strategies to mitigate identified risks, such as enhanced security protocols, improved governance, and diversification of investments. 
• Security Audits: Ensure the conduct of regular security audits of smart contracts, decentralized applications (dApps), and other Web3 infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities and ensure security best practices. 
• Risk management procedures: Develop risk management procedures that are fit for purpose for the Web 3 business models and technology, while meeting fundamental requirements of Group wide risk management frameworks. Fast track the rapid product development processes required to remain relevant in the new Web3 environment.
• Reporting and Communication: Regularly report on risk exposures to stakeholders, including the Board of Directors and senior management, and provide strategic decision-making support. 
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Collaborate with other teams, such as development, technology, security, legal, risk, audit, and compliance, to ensure that risk management is integrated into all aspects of the organization's operations. Also align with and other Business Unit risk teams to ensure wholistic adoption and embedment of risk management procedures for the Web3 business products.
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest trends and technologies in the Web3 space, as well as emerging risks and regulatory changes. 

Day to Day Responsibilities:

• Drive process improvements, efficiency, and cost reduction through innovative ideas.
• Develop and implement risk plans aligned to business strategy, securing approval from relevant committees.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and proactively manage risk across the business.
• Align business processes with the Group Risk Framework and participate in risk governance forums.
• Identify, assess, and monitor risks across processes and systems, ensuring regular reporting and tracking.
• Provide risk guidance and advisory support based on regulatory standards, audits, and compliance findings.
• Evaluate audit outcomes and recommend improvements and corrective actions.
• Drive risk mitigation initiatives by working closely with business stakeholders.
• Operationalise risk frameworks through reporting, meetings, and structured processes.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships, influencing decision-making and outcomes.
• Share risk insights, knowledge, and industry trends with stakeholders and teams.
• Support business strategy, governance effectiveness, and transformation initiatives.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and diversity.

Essential Qualifications - NQF Level

Preferred Qualification

• Bachelor of Commerce 
• Bachelor of law

Preferred Certifications

• Member of Institute of Risk Management of South Africa and/or similar preferred certifications

Minimum Experience Level

• 10-15 years’ experience in Risk Management
• Banking experience, inclusive of Legal, Compliance, Risk and Regulatory experience
• Execution abilities and capabilities

Technical / Professional Knowledge

Behavioural Competencies