Job Description
Position: FinTech Product Manager
Company: FirstRand Bank Limited
Location: Durban, South Africa
Experience: Minimum 5 years product management experience in financial technology
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Computer Science, Engineering or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Financial Technology
Department: Product Development
Salary: SSP 600,000 – 900,000 per annum
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
FirstRand Bank Limited is one of South Africa’s leading integrated financial services groups, offering a broad range of banking, insurance and investment solutions to both retail and corporate clients. With a strong heritage of innovation, FirstRand has embraced digital transformation to deliver seamless, secure, and customer‑centric experiences across its portfolio. The bank operates across major South African cities, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, and maintains a robust presence in the broader African market. As a forward‑looking institution, FirstRand invests heavily in fintech partnerships, data analytics, and emerging technologies to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. This commitment creates a fertile environment for professionals seeking to shape the future of banking in South Africa.
Job Overview
The FinTech Product Manager will lead the end‑to‑end lifecycle of digital banking products, from ideation and market research to design, development, launch, and continuous improvement. Reporting to the Head of Product Development, the role collaborates closely with cross‑functional teams including engineering, design, compliance, marketing, and sales to ensure products meet regulatory standards, user expectations, and business objectives. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the digital strategy of a major South African bank while contributing to the broader ecosystem of financial technology innovation. For more information about our hiring process, visit our main portal at https://southafricajobsearch.com.
Explore additional career resources at https://www.kenyajobsearch.com/.
Key Responsibilities
- Define product vision, strategy, and roadmap for fintech solutions aligned with FirstRand’s digital transformation goals.
- Conduct market analysis, competitor benchmarking, and customer research to identify unmet needs and growth opportunities.
- Translate business requirements into detailed product specifications, user stories, and acceptance criteria.
- Work closely with agile development squads to prioritize features, manage backlogs, and ensure timely delivery.
- Collaborate with compliance, risk, and legal teams to guarantee products meet South African financial regulations and data protection standards.
- Lead go‑to‑market planning, including pricing, positioning, launch campaigns, and post‑launch performance monitoring.
- Analyze product performance metrics, user feedback, and financial KPIs to drive iterative improvements.
- Serve as the product evangelist internally and externally, presenting roadmaps to senior leadership and stakeholders.
Required Skills
- Strong understanding of fintech ecosystems, digital banking platforms, and emerging payment technologies.
- Proven ability to manage product lifecycles using agile methodologies (Scrum/Kanban).
- Excellent analytical skills with proficiency in data‑driven decision making and KPI tracking.
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Strategic thinking combined with hands‑on execution mindset.
- Familiarity with South African banking regulations, AML, and data privacy laws.
- Experience with product analytics tools (e.g., Mixpanel, Amplitude) and prototyping software (e.g., Figma, Sketch).
Education
A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Finance or a related discipline is required. An MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification is considered an advantage, especially with a focus on digital innovation or financial services.
Experience
Applicants must have at least five years of product management experience within the financial technology sector, preferably in a banking or fintech startup environment. Demonstrated success in launching digital products that achieved measurable adoption and revenue growth is essential.
Salary
The role offers a competitive salary range of SSP 600,000 to 900,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and long‑term incentive plans are also part of the total rewards package.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical aid and life insurance coverage.
- Pension fund contributions matching up to 10% of base salary.
- Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and parental leave.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
- Flexible working arrangements and remote‑work options.
- Professional development budget and tuition reimbursement.
Training
- Onboarding program covering FirstRand’s culture, compliance framework, and product suite.
- Access to industry‑leading fintech certifications (e.g., Certified Scrum Product Owner, FinTech Innovation Lab).
- Mentorship from senior product leaders and cross‑functional experts.
- Regular workshops on emerging technologies such as blockchain, AI, and open banking APIs.
Working Environment
FirstRand provides a collaborative, inclusive, and technology‑driven workplace. The Durban office features modern workspaces, state‑of‑the‑art collaboration tools, and a vibrant community of innovators. Employees enjoy a culture that values diversity, continuous learning, and a balanced approach to work and life.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant fintech product experience through the online portal. Applications will be screened by the Talent Acquisition team, followed by a virtual interview stage, a technical case study, and a final interview with senior leadership. The recruitment timeline typically spans four to six weeks.
Equal Opportunity Statement
FirstRand Bank Limited is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.