Investigator – Priority Investigations and Whistleblowing

Investigator – Priority Investigations and Whistleblowing Join to apply for the Investigator – Priority Investigations and Whistleblowing role at Absa Group Job Summary The 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) (on people) related matters previously covered by ER. PI&W is establishing an Employee Relations (ER) 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: Have the relevant skills, knowledge and expertise to respond to each investigation Have a proven track record in investigating ethics-related matters Have the ability to work independently Have experience working across various regions of the country Have 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 Additional investigation topics may include: 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: Be accountable for scoping investigation plans Be responsible for the quality of the output of investigations Manage stakeholders Be resourceful and creative in conducting/managing investigations Manage confidentiality requirements on each assignment Suggest remedial action to be taken by respective Business Units Write reports of high quality setting out factual findings Present findings including insights and/or recommendations Assist management with preparation of potential disciplinary meetings in case of substantiated allegations and serve as a witness during internal disciplinary processes, including the CCMA Assist with post‑investigation formal proceedings such as testifying at civil recovery and criminal proceedings Understand legal frameworks of investigations Ensure effective record keeping from investigations takes place 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 Have sufficient soft skills to deal with investigations involving sensitive issues Have the ability to exercise sound judgment Be proactive Collaborate with Human Capital, Legal and management teams to resolve employee relations issues Lead from the front by having a strong work ethic and being self‑directed and self‑sufficient 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 the stakeholders Be available to Management across South Africa Develop key relationships with stakeholders, including Head: PI&W, Head: Conduct & Ethics, Investigations, Chief Compliance Officers, ER and Employment Legal Develop key relationships within the investigation’s environment in the bank, including other forensic functions within the bank Develop key relationships with other stakeholders (clients) in the bank Provide meaningful feedback to stakeholders and have regular exchanges with stakeholders Accountability: Professional Competence Stay informed of relevant legal frameworks which have jurisdiction and are applicable in each investigation, internal policies and industry best practices Have a working knowledge of the Absa Way Code of Ethics, Absa Employee Relations Policy and related standards, the Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace and the Labour Relations Act, BCEA, EEA, etc. Be conversant in most ER related topics and recent trends in regulatory / employment legislation Demonstrate the ability to manage difficult conversations, conflict, and emotionally charged situations while being mindful of diversity, equity, inclusion, and navigating cross‑cultural workplace dynamics 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. Education And Experience Required University degree or equivalent; or Financial Services Qualification or post graduate 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) Equal Opportunity Statement 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 not to make an appointment to the post as advertised. Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Other, Information Technology, and Management Industries Banking and Financial Services #J-18808-Ljbffr