Business & Commercial Banking (BCB) Risk Graduate Programme - Structured Credit Risk

Standard Bank Group is a leading Africa-focused financial services group, and an innovative player on the global stage, that offers a variety of career-enhancing opportunities – plus the chance to work alongside some of the sector’s most talented, motivated professionals. Our clients range from individuals, to businesses of all sizes, high net worth families and large multinational corporates and institutions. We’re passionate about creating growth in Africa. Bringing true, meaningful value to our clients and the communities we serve and creating a real sense of purpose for you.

Are you a recent law graduate looking to make a significant impact in the financial sector? We are seeking talented individuals to join our Structured Credit Risk division as Graduate Trainees.

Our 18-month graduate program is designed to equip you with the skills and experiences necessary to become a skilled Risk Practitioner within the Business & Commercial Banking segment of Standard Bank. You will receive guidance and support from Senior Executives & Managers who oversee the Risk Management portfolios.

Through a series of rotations, you will learn how risk is managed in the bank and gain extensive experience in various areas of Credit Risk within the Business & Commercial Banking business unit across South Africa. These areas include:

• Legal and Regulatory Compliance
  • Understanding the legal frameworks governing credit risk.
  • Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Drafting and reviewing legal documents related to credit risk.

• Credit Risk Assessment
  • Conducting thorough risk assessments for potential clients.
  • Evaluating the legal implications of credit decisions.
  • Collaborating with the credit evaluation team to support the Commercial Segment’s asset growth targets.

• Risk Mitigation Strategies
  • Developing strategies to mitigate legal risks associated with credit.
  • Advising on the legal aspects of risk management policies.
  • Supporting business partners in understanding and meeting client lending needs.

• Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
  • Analysing data to evaluate current strategies and develop innovative challenger strategies.

Providing legal insights to inform decision-making and customer-centric strategies.

Why join Standard Bank?

• Comprehensive Training – Receive in depth training from industry experts to build a solid foundation in credit risk.
• Professional Development – Access mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources to support your growth.
• Real-World Projects – Work on projects that have a tangible impact, helping you apply your knowledge and skills.
• Career Pathways – Our program opens doors to a rewarding career at Standard Bank.

Take the next step in your career journey with us and be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

During this 18-month programme you can look forward to:

• Legal and Credit Evaluations – Ensure that credit evaluation processes and decisions are executed effectively within the parameters of relevant legal and product policies.
• Credit Risk Lifecycle – Collaborate with the Credit Risk Management team to prepare agreements, manage pre-conditions for loan drawdowns, release limits, and manage post-sanction conditions.
• Operations Processes – Review and ensure compliance with detailed standard operating procedures and service level agreements.
• Project Management – Participate in projects and ad-hoc functions, including training staff and supporting Customer Journeys.
• Stakeholder Management – Network and build strong mutual relationships across the Business and Commercial banking team.
• Client Engagement – Support the business in understanding clients and ensuring lending opportunities fall within risk appetite.

Application closing date: 30 June 2025

Masters or Honours in:

BCom Law / Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Accounting in final year advantageous.

Honours qualification to be completed by 31 December 2025

Minimum requirements:

• South African Citizen
• Should you have work experience, it should not exceed 18 months 
• Full academic transcripts to be submitted with application for undergraduate and postgraduate studies