Overview Hello future Credit Research Head. Ashburton Investments is a new generation investment manager, which offers investors access to diverse sources of return and ways to manage risk in both the South African institutional space and globally. We pride ourselves on offering solutions to address clients’ holistic needs and support business strategies in reallocation of investment capital in the face of increasing regulatory pressures. We see institutions as but not limited to pension funds, long and short‑term insurers, re‑insurers, as well as medical aid schemes. The Credit Research function oversees the credit exposures within the Ashburton Investments portfolios/mandates. This includes but is not limited to credit funds as well as full discretionary mandates for both local and offshore in both the listed and unlisted space. This role reports to the Ashburton Investments Chief Executive Officer and will also be a member of the investment committee chaired by the Ashburton Chief Investment Officer. The Head of Credit Research will implement the investment process by driving research efforts by analysts so that credit applications are submitted timeously to the Credit Committee, working closely with the Risk function to report breaches in time and with the Senior Portfolio Management team to prioritize credit names considered for inclusion. Critical to the role is managing credit default rates and displaying strong analytical insight with in‑depth credit knowledge to assess risk inherent in counterparties. Responsibilities Manage all existing functions performed by the Head of Credit Research and take full responsibility for the Credit Research function. Propose and oversee the credit research strategy and framework for Ashburton Investments. Ensure that the research process is congruent with the Ashburton Investments Credit Charter. Manage a team of credit analysts and oversee their submissions to the relevant investment committees; report to governance committees on Credit risk. Manage all credit exposures owned by Ashburton Investments portfolios and assess new transactions where Credit risk is undertaken. Interact with the Legal Advisor to ensure that legal agreements align with Credit Committee approval. Manage and schedule investment submissions to the Ashburton Investments Credit Committee and Credit Governance Committee to ensure smooth running of the committees. Manage distressed counterparties. Chair the Ashburton Investments Delegated Credit Committee. Manage exposure limits, ratings and systems for credit exposures. Work closely with the Risk department and report any breaches in concentration and risk limits. Attend, input and interact at relevant forums, committees and discussions related to Credit Risk. Prepare, assess and report all credit names in terms of the Ashburton Investments ESG framework. Handle ad hoc requests related to the Credit Research function. Provide key stakeholders with proactive research insights into trends, market risk appetite, issues, threats and opportunities in all credit portfolios. Keep stakeholders updated on credit names on surveillance and watchlists and facilitate understanding of suitable instruments. Propose strategies for managing identified risks in existing and potential new credit names. Create appropriate credit risk models used for performance monitoring and oversight. Proactively manage credit risk metrics identified via risk dashboards and reporting. Qualifications Have completed an Mcom / MSc Hons degree in finance, investment management and/or mathematics (other qualifications may be considered). CA(SA) or CFA an advantage. Minimum 8 years relevant experience in an asset management or investment banking environment with exposure to credit portfolio risk. Experience in credit risk modelling. Knowledge of factors affecting national and global companies and their impact on investors. Thorough understanding of the investment process in asset management and the management of investment risks. Experience managing and leading teams of investment professionals. Prior experience in managing a team of credit analysts and maintaining a high‑performing and motivated team. Strong people skills needed to build trust and confidence within Ashburton Investments. Excellent attention to detail and accuracy within expected timelines. Curious & courageous – driven by a desire to know more, learn more and a deep commitment to doing the right thing. Obsessed with mastery – constantly pushing yourself to become better. Good communication and presentation skills. Advanced Excel skills. Judgement and decision‑making skills. Ability to influence and impact. Strong business insight and risk awareness. Ability to build strategic relationships. Benefits Opportunities to network and collaborate. Opportunities to gain experience, skills and capabilities in an asset management environment. Opportunities to innovate. EEO Statement All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group’s Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. Candidates may disclose disability information on a voluntary basis; this information will be kept confidential unless required by law. Applications are accepted until 12/06/26. We look forward to engaging with you further. #J-18808-Ljbffr