Operations & Tech Graduate Analyst (Prescient Securities)

1. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Settlement Operations & Trade Support

• Assist with the settlement of Equities, Bonds and Derivatives transactions in accordance with JSE Rules, Directives, and internal procedures.
• Monitor settlement activity and assist in investigating and resolving settlement exceptions, breaks, and failed trades.
• Perform daily cash and securities reconciliations and escalate discrepancies promptly.
• Liaise with custodians, banks, counterparties, and internal stakeholders to support seamless transaction processing.
• Maintain accurate settlement records and supporting documentation.
• Develop an understanding of the end-to-end trade lifecycle, including trade execution, allocation, confirmation, settlement, and reconciliation.

Data Analytics, Automation & AI Innovation

• Use data analytics to identify trends, exceptions, and opportunities for operational improvements.
• Assist in building dashboards, reports, and management information using Power BI, Excel, Power Query, or similar tools.
• Use emerging technologies responsibly to improve productivity and reduce manual processing across Operations.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and digital transformation projects.

Systems & Technology Support

• Assist with monitoring operational and trading systems.
• Support troubleshooting of system-related issues and escalate problems where required.
• Conduct daily system checks and assist in ensuring operational readiness.
• Maintain process documentation, user guides, and knowledge-sharing materials.
• Collaborate with technology and operations teams to test new functionality and enhancements.

Compliance, Controls & Risk Management

• Complete all required compliance, AML/CFT, and regulatory training.
• Support the maintenance of strong operational controls and risk management practices.
• Assist with audit requests by gathering and preparing supporting documentation.
• Ensure records are accurate, complete, and maintained according to regulatory requirements.
• Support client onboarding and operational due diligence activities where required.

Projects & Change Initiatives

• Participate in business improvement projects, system implementations, and process enhancements.
• Support user acceptance testing (UAT), data validation, and operational readiness activities.
• Contribute ideas to improve operational processes, reporting, and client experience.
• Assist in documenting workflows and recommending more efficient ways of working

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A completed bachelor’s degree, Diploma in Finance, Investment Management, Financial Markets, Accounting, Economics, Data Analytics, Information Systems, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field.
• 0-2 years' experience within financial services, investment operations, data analytics, fintech, or a related environment.
• Demonstrated interest in financial markets and the investment industry, supported by a strong academic track record.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills with the ability to analyse and manipulate data effectively.