Product Controller

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Product Controller to join our Transactional Banking PCG Trade area, where you will play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of our financial reporting and control environment. As a Product Controller at Absa, you will be responsible for P&L production and reconciliation, balance sheet substantiation, and process ownership within our dynamic trading environment. This position offers the opportunity to work with sophisticated financial instruments and collaborate closely with trading desks, risk management teams, and senior stakeholders across the organization.

You will be part of a high-performing team that ensures accurate and timely financial reporting while maintaining robust controls that protect the bank from operational and reputational risks. The role requires someone who can thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and contribute to strategic initiatives that enhance our control framework. You will work closely with traders, operations teams, regulatory reporting specialists, and senior management to ensure all aspects of the business are properly controlled and reported.

This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional looking to advance their career in investment banking product control within one of Africa's leading financial institutions. You will gain exposure to complex financial products, regulatory requirements, and the strategic decision-making processes that drive our business forward.

What You'll Do

• Produce daily P&L reports and provide detailed commentary on trading performance, market movements, and variance analysis to senior management and trading desks
• Perform comprehensive balance sheet substantiation ensuring all trading positions are accurately captured and reconciled across multiple systems and platforms
• Post accurate and timely accounting entries to the General Ledger, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and internal policies
• Ensure regulatory reporting alignment by validating that balance sheet positions match reports submitted to regulatory authorities
• Own and maintain data quality standards, ensuring accurate information flows to downstream infrastructure areas including risk management and finance systems
• Oversee the control environment within the trading business, implementing and monitoring key controls to prevent operational losses
• Collaborate with key stakeholders including traders, operations teams, risk managers, and senior leadership on daily operational matters and strategic initiatives
• Lead process improvement initiatives to enhance operational effectiveness and reduce manual intervention in reporting processes
• Identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks while implementing controls to prevent potential losses and reputational damage
• Support month-end and quarter-end closing processes, ensuring all accruals, provisions, and adjustments are properly documented and approved
• Participate in strategic projects and change initiatives that impact the product control function and broader organization
• Maintain detailed documentation of processes, controls, and procedures to ensure business continuity and regulatory compliance

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Financial Sciences, Accounting, Economics, or related financial discipline
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in product control, investment banking, or related financial services role
• Strong understanding of trading operations, financial instruments, and capital markets
• Experience with P&L attribution, balance sheet reconciliation, and financial reporting processes
• Knowledge of regulatory reporting requirements and compliance frameworks
• Proficiency in financial systems, databases, and advanced Excel skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills and ability to interact effectively with senior stakeholders
• Experience in creating and maintaining effective control environments
• Understanding of accounting principles and financial statement preparation

Nice to Have

• CA(SA) qualification or equivalent professional certification
• Previous experience in investment banking product control function
• Knowledge of specific trade finance products and transactional banking operations
• Experience with automated reporting tools and system implementations
• Understanding of derivatives, foreign exchange, and fixed income products
• Project management experience and change management skills

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Performance-based bonuses and incentive compensation aligned with business results
• Comprehensive medical aid and healthcare benefits for you and your family
• Retirement fund contributions and long-term savings plans
• Professional development opportunities including training, certifications, and career advancement programs
• Flexible working arrangements supporting work-life balance
• Employee wellness programs and mental health support services
• Access to cutting-edge technology and systems in a modern working environment

How to Apply

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your comprehensive CV along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and motivation for joining our team. We are particularly interested in understanding your experience with product control, financial reporting, and your ability to work in fast-paced trading environments. Please ensure your application clearly demonstrates how your skills and experience align with our requirements.

Our recruitment process includes initial CV screening, followed by technical and behavioral interviews with our hiring team and key stakeholders. Successful candidates may be required to complete technical assessments related to financial analysis and product control functions. We aim to provide feedback throughout the process and will keep you informed of your application status.

About the Company

At Absa, our story is built on thousands of individual journeys unfolding across Africa and beyond. With over 100 years of rich history, we are strongly positioned as a local bank with regional and international expertise, offering our colleagues the opportunity to be part of an exciting growth journey that is reshaping Africa's financial services landscape. Our presence spans personal and business banking, corporate and investment banking, wealth and investment management, and insurance across multiple African markets.

We believe that progress is driven by human experience, not hierarchy. When people are enabled to bring their whole selves to work, they don't just build careers – they help shape the future of African finance. From colleagues serving customers in local communities to teams developing innovative financial solutions across borders, Absa is built on people who bring their lived experiences, ambitions, and perspectives into the workplace every day.

As an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where diverse talents can thrive. Whether you're starting your career or are a seasoned professional, your contribution is seen, valued, and connected to something bigger. Join us in empowering Africa's tomorrow, together – one story at a time.