The South African banking system is highly competitive, with the best banks offering attractive job opportunities for those seeking stability and a comfortable lifestyle. With increasing pressure from technology-based banks entering the sector, the industry is highly concentrated. Five of the country’s largest banks hold over 90% of total assets in March 2021, valued at approximately R5.8 trillion.

The sector can provide job security and a comfortable lifestyle, making it an attractive option for job seekers. With total assets from all registered banks amounting to R6.5 trillion and mutual banks carrying an estimated value of R3.6 billion, you can land yourself a stable job and reap fruitful benefits at the best banks in South Africa.

If you are considering a career in one of the best banks in South Africa, here is some useful information that can guide you when deciding which of the banks to target. According to the Prudential Authority, the top five best banks to work for include:

1. Standard Bank

Standard Bank, one of the oldest and best banks in South Africa, boasts a 155-year history and operations within 20 countries across the African continent. The bank operates across three segments: Personal & Business Banking, Corporate & Investment Banking, and Private Clients. It focuses on applying its expertise in natural resources globally to connect selected emerging markets to Africa.

Standard Bank has a market share of 24% with approximately R1,550 billion in total assets. It is an equal opportunity employer and believes in hiring people with an adventurous spirit, who are confident, knowledgeable, and have relentless energy. If this is you, you better add Standard Bank to the list of companies that can turn your dreams into reality!

2. First National Bank (FNB)

First National Bank, one of the best banks in South Africa, is listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) and the Namibian Stock Exchange (NSX). It is the largest financial institution by market capitalization in Africa. The bank operates in South Africa, certain markets in Sub-Saharan Africa, the UK, and India. It provides customers with competitive and differentiated value propositions using its unique and highly flexible model.

FNB has a market share of 21.7% and an estimated asset value of R1,400 billion. If you want to receive more than just a salary and benefits, FNB is the bank for you. The bank believes in taking good care of its employees and providing a great work experience that is rewarding at every level. FNB provides a platform for its employees to build rewarding relationships with multi-disciplinary teams, contribute innovative ideas to projects, and access ongoing development opportunities.

3. Absa

Absa, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Absa Group and one of the best banks to work for, provides a wide range of services within retail, business, wealth management, corporate, and investment solutions to customers and clients across South Africa. The bank is part of Africa’s largest financial services group with a presence in 12 countries across the continent.

Absa’s market share is 19.5%, with total assets estimated to be at approximately R1,260 billion. The bank deems that its strength lies in its employees and is invested in providing them with growth opportunities that will help them achieve their full potential. It has an all-inclusive growth strategy in place, ensuring that all employees are empowered and providing a stable platform for anyone to grow their career.

4. Nedbank

Nedbank, one of the best banks in South Africa, provides wholesale and retail banking, as well as insurance, asset management, and wealth management. The bank ensures a working environment that encourages employees to bring the organization’s values to life and has plans in place to grow both the people and the business to achieve the desired impact.

Nedbank has a market share of 17.2% and roughly R1,110 billion in assets. It is invested in supporting its employees throughout their learning, growth, and adaptation to change. Nedbank helps grow employees by enabling career mobility, awarding internal bursaries for future qualifications, and providing support to talent through learnerships and internships. If you become a Nedbank employee, you will also have access to a wide range of digital learning courses and guidance with regard to career and development assessments.

5. Investec

Investec, founded in 1974 in Johannesburg, South Africa, is an international bank and wealth manager. The bank’s main focus is developing enduring wealth for its stakeholders. Investec publicly trades in Johannesburg and London and employs approximately 8,200 people across its core geographies of the UK and South Africa, as well as other locations worldwide.

The bank’s market share is sitting at 7.6%, with total assets estimated to be at R490 billion. When applying for a position at Investec, one of the best banks to work for, the recruitment team goes beyond looking at your CV and qualifications. They look at the qualities that define you as an individual and try to see your full potential. The bank was recognized as the #1 Employer of Choice by the South African Graduate Employer Association during the 2021 awards and provides opportunities across various segments, including client support, HR, IT, marketing, banking, property, and fraud.

The South African banking industry is said to be a “marketplace without boundaries.” So, take your career to the next level and play a part in the implementation of digital solutions, low-cost operating models, and supply-chain integration. Regardless of the sector you choose, be it customer support, IT, HR, or PR, if you feel that you are the right fit, use this guide to help you select which of the best banks in South Africa you would like to help in responding to the growing threats in the retail banking industry.

You may also enjoy: Top Companies to work for