Social Investing Research and Insights Lead

Job Description

To support the strategic direction of the organisation's social investing efforts by leading the integration of research and insights across the three foundations. Operating across three foundations, responsible for gathering, synthesising, and translating insights from the ideation and investing, enablement, and execution teams.

To shape strategy, optimise programme design, and enhance impact delivery. The role serves as a strategic enabler, ensuring that decisions are evidence-based and aligned with the organisation's social investment objectives and broader purpose.

Hello future Social Investing Research and Insights Lead

FirstRand believes that its people are its single most important resource and will not operate in a sector unless it has people who are right for that market and who share FirstRand's business values. We recruit self-starters who have a passion for what they do. We empower them, hold them accountable and reward them appropriately. We value diversity in our people, particularly for the way that this contributes to innovative thinking. If you think you will flourish in our environment, and you believe you have the necessary skills and competencies for the position advertised, then we are looking for you

Are you someone who can:

• Lead the design and implementation of a research and insights framework that supports the social investing strategy.

• Translate qualitative and quantitative data into actionable insights to inform strategic direction across the three foundations.

• Partner with the Ideation & Investing, Enablement, and Execution teams to gather relevant data, feedback, and learnings.

• Facilitate knowledge sharing and alignment across teams to ensure cohesive strategy development and execution.

• Conduct primary and secondary research on social impact trends, community needs, and investment effectiveness.

• Analyse programme performance, stakeholder feedback, and market data to identify opportunities and risks.

• Use insights to influence and refine strategic priorities, programme design, and investment decisions.

• Develop dashboards, reports, and presentations that communicate insights clearly to internal and external stakeholders.

• Engage with internal leadership, external partners, and community stakeholders to validate insights and co-create solutions.

• Represent the organisation in relevant forums, sharing research findings and thought leadership.

• Collaborate with M&E specialists to ensure robust impact measurement and learning mechanisms are in place.

• Support the development of KPIs and metrics that align with strategic goals and social impact objectives.

Qualification:

• Minimum: Bachelor's or master's degree (Social Science/ Development studies/ Economics/ Related Field)
• 8+ years of experience 8+ years

You will be a match if you have:

• Research Methodologies
• Data Analysis & Interpretation

Personal Attributes:

• Strategic Thinking & Vision
• Analytical Acumen
• Data Literacy
• Stakeholder Management
• Insight Driven Decision Making
• Communication & Storytelling

You will have access to:

• Challenging work in a complex and exciting environment
• Opportunities to innovate and create efficiencies.

Are you interested to take the step? We look forward to engaging with you further. Apply now

Job Details

Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below.

27/10/25

All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group's Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.