Investigator – Priority Investigations and Whistleblowing

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Job Summary

he Priority Investigations & Whistleblowing (PI&W) unit operates within the Risk function, overseeing the bank’s whistleblowing platforms and investigating issues that present significant risks to the bank. The unit addresses a range of allegations, including employee dishonesty generally covered by Forensics and Employee Relations (ER) (on people) related matters previously covered by ER. PI&W is establishing an Employee Relations (ER) investigative function to enhance its capabilities.
PI&W is therefore looking to recruit investigators who are responsible for investigating workplace issues and employee concerns, such as harassment, discrimination, policy violations and other behavioural or ethical breaches. Ideal candidates will: possess relevant qualifications and:
have the relevant skills, knowledge and expertise to respond to each investigation
have a proven track record in investigating ethics-related matters
have the ability to work independently
have experience working across various regions of the country.
In addition, the investigator must have strong interpersonal skills suited to sensitive matters.
The issues to be investigated will mostly cover the following areas:
Bullying
Victimisation
Harassment
Nepotism
Unethical behaviour
Racism
Sexual harassment.
The issues could also relate to those not covered above, but which require investigation, such as:
Breaches of ethical compliance
Unfair labour practices.
The key accountabilities of the investigator will be to conduct and manage investigations, effectively manage stakeholders, portray a professional competence and be part of a team managing the whistleblowing activities. These are discussed below.

Job Description

Accountability:  Investigations

• Conduct ER investigations in accordance with best practices, guidelines and key ER principles across all areas of the bank in South Africa

• Respond to requests to investigate issues from various sources

• Liaise with the Head: PI&W and other members of PI&W

• Conduct investigations (on an end – to –end basis) efficiently and effectively. In doing so:Be accountable for scoping investigation plansBe responsible for the quality of the output of investigationsManage stakeholdersBe resourceful and creative in conducting/managing investigationsManage confidentiality requirements on each assignmentSuggest remedial action to be taken by respective Business UnitsWrite reports of high quality setting out factual findingsPresent findings including insights and/or recommendationsIn case of substantiated allegations, assisting management with preparation of potential disciplinary meetings and being a witness during internal disciplinary processes including the CCMA.Assist with post investigation on formal proceedings (such as testifying at civil recovery and criminal proceedings)Understand legal frameworks of investigationsEnsure that effective record keeping from investigations takes place.

• Use the PI&W Case Management System

• Provide Management Information and reports to key stakeholders.

Accountability:  Manage investigations independently

• Manage investigations independently

• Be prepared to travel to all areas of South Africa at short notice

• Be prepared to conduct investigations for extended periods away from home

• Have sufficient soft skills to deal with investigations involving sensitive issues

• Have the ability to exercise sound judgment

• Be proactive

• Collaborate with Human Capital, Legal and management teams to resolve employee relations issues.

• To set the right example in conducting and managing investigations by:Leading from the front by having a strong work ethicBeing self-directed and self-sufficient.

Accountability: Relationship/Stakeholder management

• Develop and maintain relationships with business leaders within the bank and promote a positive professional image

• Understand the needs and expectations of the stakeholders

• Be available to Management across South Africa

• Develop key relationships with stakeholders, being, Head: PI&W, Head: Conduct & Ethics, Investigations, Chief Compliance Officers, ER and Employment Legal.

• Develop key relationships within the investigation’s environment in the bank, including other forensic functions within the bank

• Develop key relationships with other stakeholders (clients) in the bank

• Providing meaningful feedback to stakeholders and having regular exchanges with stakeholders

Accountability: Professional Competence

• Stay informed of relevant legal frameworks which have jurisdiction and are applicable in each investigation, internal policies, and industry best practices

• Having a working knowledge of the Absa Way Code of Ethics, Absa Employee Relations Policy and supporting standards, the Code of Good Practice on the Prevention of Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace and the Labour Relations Act, BCEA, EEA, etc.

• Being conversant in most ER related topics and recent trends in regulatory / (employment legislation)

• The ability to manage difficult conversations, conflict, and emotionally charged situations Mindful of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and able to navigate cross-cultural workplace dynamics

• Participate in industry forums and support strategic initiatives.

Accountability: Training & Development

Assist Human Capital in developing and delivering training for employees and managers on topics such as harassment prevention, workplace conduct and conflict resolution. 

Education and Experience Required

• University degree or equivalent; or

• Financial Services Qualification or post graduate diploma

• 5+ years professional experience.

Preferred experience        

• 5+ years in a financial services organisation

• 2+ years in a managerial/senior coordination role in a financial institution

• Experience carrying out ER investigations including grievance and disciplinary management.

 

Education

Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Law, Military Science and Security (Required)

Absa Bank Limited is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the Bank.

Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised