Associate, Strategy and Planning in England

FirstBank UK is a globally recognised, top-tier bank that provides world-class services to various institutions and individuals. Offering a comprehensive range of retail and corporate financial services/products, this thriving business has over 10 million active customers in over 700 business locations and is the oldest African bank in the UK. Due to business requirements, we are now looking to acquire the services of an experienced Associate, Strategy and Planning.

This is a hybrid role with 3 days in the office and 2 days from home. The Associate, Strategy and Planning will support the Head, Strategy and Planning and the wider team in delivering FirstBank UK’s business strategy. The role is designed for a high-potential individual eager to develop expertise in strategy, planning, market intelligence, and innovation within the banking sector. The Associate will contribute to strategic projects, research, analysis, and cross-functional collaboration, helping to drive the Bank’s long-term goals.

• Assist in the formulation, review, and refinement of the Bank’s strategic plans.
• Support enterprise-level strategy discussions and cross-functional collaboration.
• Support the identification and evaluation of growth opportunities (e.g., M&A, partnerships).
• Assist with due diligence and integration planning for partnerships, acquisition targets, etc.
• Help coordinate periodic performance review sessions and track progress against strategic goals.
• Monitor market, regulatory, technological, and economic trends to inform strategic direction.
• Conduct research and analysis on macroeconomic and industry trends, including banking innovation and fintech disruption.
• Support the execution of strategic and innovation initiatives, including challenges and hackathons.
• Assist in managing or lead special projects and high-impact initiatives as assigned.
• Work closely with key internal stakeholders (Business Heads, Finance, Risk, Compliance, Technology, Operations, HR, etc.) to foster strategic alignment.
• Support collaboration with external consultants and the Group’s strategy office.
• Take ownership of personal development and participate in team learning and development plans.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing within the team.

• Experience or strong interest in strategy development, business transformation, management consulting, innovation, or corporate planning.
• Understanding of the UK banking industry, regulatory environment, and digital transformation trends.
• Exposure to financial services or consulting.
• Analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Ability to conduct market and industry research.
• Financial acumen: basic understanding of financial statements and analysis.
• Effective communicator and collaborator.
• Strong networking and stakeholder management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in finance, Economics, Business Administration, Strategy, or related discipline.

• Up to 10% employer pension contribution.
• Life Assurance Cover.
• Income protection.
• Private Medical Insurance plan (upon successful completion of probation period).
• Contribution to glasses/contacts and eye testing.
• Gym subsidy (up to £50 per month).
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Interest Free season ticket loan for travel.
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 28 after 3 years and 30 after 8 years’ service.
• Give As You Earn (GAYE).

First Bank is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.