Job Description

Brief description

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) invites passionate, innovative and talented applicants to apply for its 2027 Chartered Accountant (CA) Training Programme intake.

Detailed description

The primary objective of the programme is to help address the shortage of CAs within the SARB and throughout South Africa. In accordance with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) framework, trainees will have the opportunity to develop and demonstrate the competencies outlined by SAICA, while reinforcing their academic foundations and preparing for the demands of the CA profession.

Format of the programme

Trainees follow a structured rotation through relevant SARB departments to gain practical exposure and a comprehensive understanding of the operations and strategic role of a central bank.

Duration of the programme: Three years (starting in February 2027).

To be considered for the programme, candidates must:

• have completed or be in the process of completing a SAICA-accredited:
  • Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA); or
    • Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) or an equivalent qualification; and
    • after passing the CTA or PGDA, must be eligible to write the Initial Assessment of Competence (IAC) Board examination;
  • have an academic performance record average of at least 60%; and
  • be a South African citizen.

Additional requirements include:

• strong analytical skills;
  • attention to detail;
  • good communication and interpersonal skills; and
  • be curious, self-motivated and resilient.

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

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.

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.

Prudential Regulation

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

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.

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.

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.

Statistics

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

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.