Standard Bank is seeking dynamic and highly talented individuals to join its Risk Management division as Graduate Trainees through the Personal & Private Banking (PPB) Risk Graduate Programme. This 18-month programme is designed to provide aspiring risk practitioners with hands-on experience and essential skills that will lay a strong foundation for a successful career in risk management.
Key Learning Opportunities
The PPB Risk Graduate Programme is structured to provide a mix of technical knowledge, practical skills, and project involvement, allowing participants to develop into well-rounded professionals. Over the course of the programme, participants will engage in a variety of learning opportunities, including:
- Understanding the Credit Lifecycle – Graduates will gain insight into how the bank manages its credit operations and the various stages of the credit lifecycle. This includes understanding lending products, assessing credit risk, and implementing effective credit management strategies.
- Engagement in Value-Adding Projects – Participants will be involved in key projects that drive risk management efforts within the bank. These projects will require problem-solving skills, data analysis, and collaboration with various teams within the organisation.
- Reporting and Analytics – The programme offers an opportunity to develop reporting skills, with graduates contributing to ad-hoc reporting, generating insights, and using analytics to inform business decisions. This experience will sharpen participants’ ability to communicate complex data effectively to stakeholders.
- Collaboration Across Teams – Graduates will have the chance to work with multiple teams across different risk functions. This collaborative environment will enhance participants’ understanding of the interdependent nature of risk management processes in the banking sector.
- Coding and Automation – As part of the programme, graduates will have the opportunity to improve and expand their coding skills. They will contribute to the modernisation of digital credit solutions and help drive the automation of risk assurance processes.
- Fraud Risk Management – Fraud insights and analytics will be a key area of focus, with participants working on projects to identify trends, mitigate fraud risks, and enhance the bank’s fraud prevention strategies.
- Model Monitoring and Development – Graduates will also gain exposure to scorecards, capital impairments, and machine learning model monitoring. This will provide them with a deep understanding of how the bank applies data science techniques to risk management processes.
Career Development and Growth
This graduate programme is not only an opportunity to gain practical experience but also a pathway for career development. The skills and knowledge gained during the 18 months will help participants excel in their future careers as risk practitioners. Moreover, the programme provides a platform for graduates to network with key industry professionals and establish connections that will prove valuable as they progress in their careers.
Participants will be supported by senior leaders who will guide them through the various stages of the programme. The combination of practical work experience, mentorship, and training will equip graduates with the necessary tools to become skilled risk practitioners in the fast-paced financial sector.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is open to South African citizens who have completed a Masters or Honours qualification in fields such as:
- BSc / BCom / BDatSci
- Statistics
- Data Science
- Pure Mathematics
- Actuarial Science
- Informatics / Information Systems
- Computer Science
- Computational and Applied Mathematics
- Econometrics
- Behavioural Economics
Additionally, applicants must have no more than 18 months of work experience and should have completed their Honours qualification by 31 December 2025. Candidates must submit full academic transcripts for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies when applying for the programme.
How to Apply
The application process for the PPB Risk Graduate Programme is straightforward. Interested candidates can apply online through the Standard Bank careers portal. The closing date for applications is 30 June 2025. It is important for candidates to ensure they meet the programme’s requirements and submit all necessary documentation.
The Personal & Private Banking Risk Graduate Programme is an ideal opportunity for graduates seeking to launch their careers in the financial services sector, particularly in risk management. With a comprehensive learning approach, exposure to key areas of risk management, and strong career development support, this programme is designed to equip graduates with the skills they need to succeed.
If you are passionate about data analysis, problem-solving, and shaping the future of risk management in banking, the PPB Risk Graduate Programme could be the perfect start to your career.
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