Investigator – Priority Investigations and Whistleblowing

Empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together…one story at a time. With over 100 years of rich history and strongly positioned as a local bank with regional and international expertise, a career with our family offers the opportunity to be part of this exciting growth journey, to reset our future and shape our destiny as a proudly African group. Job Summary Priority Investigations & Whistleblowing (PI&W) unit operates within the Risk function, overseeing the bank’s whistleblowing platforms and investigating issues that present significant risks to the bank. The unit addresses a range of allegations, including employee dishonesty generally covered by Forensics and Employee Relations (ER) related matters previously covered by ER. PI&W is establishing an Employee Relations investigative function to enhance its capabilities. PI&W is therefore looking to recruit investigators who are responsible for investigating workplace issues and employee concerns, such as harassment, discrimination, policy violations and other behavioural or ethical breaches. Ideal candidates will:- possess relevant qualifications and relevant skills, knowledge and expertise to respond to each- have a proven track record in investigating ethics-related matters- be able to work independently- have experience working across various regions of the country- possess strong interpersonal skills suited to sensitive matters The issues to be investigated will mostly cover the following areas:- Bullying- Victimisation- Harassment- Nepotism- Unethical behaviour- Racism- Sexual harassment- Breaches of ethical compliance- Unfair labour practices Accountability: Investigations Conduct ER investigations in accordance with best practices, guidelines and key ER principles across all areas of the bank in South Africa Respond to requests to investigate issues from various sources Liaise with the Head: PI&W and other members of PI&W Conduct investigations on an end‑to‑end basis efficiently and effectively, including: Scoping investigation plans Quality of investigation output Stakeholder management Creativity and resourcefulness Confidentiality handling Remedial actions to Business Units High‑quality reports Findings presentation with insights and recommendations Assisting management with disciplinary meetings and witnessing internal disciplinary processes Post‑investigation involvement in formal proceedings (testifying at civil recovery and criminal proceedings) Understanding legal frameworks Effective record‑keeping Use the PI&W Case Management System Provide Management Information and reports to key stakeholders Accountability: Manage investigations independently Manage investigations independently Be prepared to travel to all areas of South Africa at short notice Be prepared to conduct investigations for extended periods away from home Possess sufficient soft skills to deal with sensitive investigations Exercise sound Be proactive Collaborate with Human Capital, Legal and management teams to resolve employee relations issues Lead by example with strong work ethic, self‑direction and self‑sufficiency Accountability: Relationship/Stakeholder management Develop and maintain relationships with business leaders within the bank and promote a positive professional image Understand the needs and expectations of stakeholders Be available to Management across South Africa Develop relationships with stakeholders, including Head: PI&W, Head: Conduct & Ethics, Investigations, Chief Compliance Officers, ER and Employment Legal Develop relationships within the investigation environment, including other forensic functions within the bank Provide meaningful feedback to stakeholders and exchanges Accountability: Professional Competence Stay informed of relevant legal frameworks, internal policies and industry best practices Have a working knowledge of the Absa Way Code of Ethics, Absa Employee Relations Policy, the Code of Good Practice on the Prevention of Harassment in the Workplace, the Labour Relations Act, BCEA, EEA, etc. Be conversant in most ER related topics and recent regulatory trends Manage difficult conversations, conflict and emotionally charged situations mindfully and with diversity, equity, and inclusion in mind Participate in industry forums and support strategic initiatives Accountability: Training & Development Assist Human Capital in developing and delivering training for employees and managers on topics such as harassment prevention, workplace conduct and conflict resolution. University degree or equivalent, or Financial Services Qualification or postgraduate diploma 5+ years professional experience Preferred Experience 5+ years in a financial services organisation 2+ years in a managerial/senior coordination role in a financial institution Experience carrying out ER investigations including grievance and disciplinary management Education Bachelor’s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Law, Military Science and Security (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 to not make an appointment to the post as advertised. #J-18808-Ljbffr