(1756) Lead Economist x 2 - ERD

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following key performance areas:

Partner with senior managers to shape and deliver the SARB’s economic research programme.

Lead or contribute to flagship publications, including the * Monetary Policy Review * and * Quarterly Bulletin * .

Prepare reviews, analyses and reports on short-term economic developments and broader economic activity.

Prepare and deliver economic research presentations to senior management, the Monetary Policy Committee and external forums, as required.

Coordinate economic research activities across SARB departments.

Conduct performance appraisals and contribute to team members’ overall performance evaluations, where applicable.

Improve workflows, manage resources effectively and support the implementation of the operational plan.

Lead and participate in stakeholder engagements.

Mentor and support the development of other economists.

Additional requirements include:

advanced knowledge of economic and financial market analysis, including relevant theories, methodologies, statistics and reporting tools;

strong strategic and conceptual thinking, with the ability to manage complexity, ambiguity and change;

sound judgement and decision-making, supported by quality assurance and continuous improvement practices;

effective planning, organising and delivery skills, with a strong drive for results;

the ability to influence stakeholders and build productive working relationships across the SARB and externally;

leadership capability, including developing others, supporting professional growth and building team resilience; and

strong industry, business and organisational awareness relevant to central banking and economic policy.

The closing date for applications is August 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

In line with the SARB’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups. People with disabilities are welcome to apply.

The SARB offers remuneration and benefits commensurate with the level of the position and in line with the market. The level at which the successful applicant will be appointed will depend on his/her competence and experience.

Qualifications

Career path: Specialist (SP)

Level: SP 5

About Company

Economic Research Department (ERD)

Company

About SARB

Primary mandate of the SARB

Section 224 of the Constitution of South Africa states the mandate of the SARB as follows:

The primary object of the South African Reserve Bank is to protect the value of the currency in the interest of balanced and sustainable economic growth in the Republic.

The South African Reserve Bank, in support of its primary objective, must perform its functions independently and without fear, favour or prejudice.

WHAT WE DO

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Monetary Policy

The Constitution gives the SARB the mandate to protect the value of the rand. We use interest rates to keep inflation low and steady.

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Financial Stability

The SARB has a mandate to protect and enhance financial stability. We identify and mitigate systemic risks that might disrupt the financial system.

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Prudential Regulation

The Prudential Authority regulates financial institutions and market infrastructures to promote and enhance their safety and soundness, and support financial stability.

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Financial Markets

Open market operations are the main tool we use to implement monetary policy. We manage South Africa’s gold and foreign exchange reserves.

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Financial Surveillance

The SARB is responsible for regulating cross-border transactions, preventing the abuse of the financial system and supporting the regulation of financial institutions.

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Payments and Settlements

The SARB is responsible for ensuring the safety and soundness of the national payment system, which is the backbone of South Africa’s modern financial system.

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Statistics

The SARB provides important economic and financial statistics that present an overview of the economic situation in South Africa.

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Research

Research conducted by the SARB focuses on economics, financial stability, banking and emerging trends in finance. Our research supports policy decision-making.

Banknotes and Coin

The SARB has the sole right to make, issue and destroy banknotes and coin in South Africa.