Hamilton Ndlovu

Hamilton Ndlovu: Head - Microfinance Institutions and Money Service Businesses (Absa CIB)

“I would like to be remembered as a great father, friend, husband and someone who is not only passionate about giving back but stands up for what they believe in.”

Q1: When did you join The Grind? How did you get to know about the Foundation?

A1: I joined the Grind foundation about 6/7 years ago. I was having a casual chat with Thebe and he thought the foundation would be something I can both add value to and obtain value from.

Q2: Tell us about your career journey and where you are today.

A2: I have had an interesting career journey that started in the branch (Absa) as a Sales Consultant. It was part of a graduate program that I was picked for. It’s been uphill since then and I have worked in various positions. I became a Home Loans Team Leader after my little stint as a sales consultant, but that part of the business didn’t fulfill my goals and ambitions.

I then jumped ship and went to work for Nedbank Private Bank as a Relationship Manager, albeit one of my worst decisions as I didn’t like the culture.

I then moved back to Absa as a Transactional Banker which was a stepping stone to Corporate Banking, where I am currently (7 years YTD).

Q3: What personal sacrifices have you had to make in your career?

A3: I left Nedbank without another job as I couldn’t stand the culture. It was a major decision but ultimately the right one. I also decided to study 11 years after completing my BCom at Rhodes. I decided to do an MBA (at Wits Business School). It was a huge sacrifice as I was getting married in my 1st year and expecting our daughter in the 2nd year.

I think I was a zombie for 2 years but it was well worth it.

Q4: Looking back on the past 2 years, what has been the impact of Covid-19 on you and your family, as well as the way you work? 

A4:  The last 2 years have been very challenging and yet very fulfilling. I was accustomed to going into the office, have my morning cup of coffee, chat to a couple of colleagues before work starts. All that was taken away and I had to contend with 2 little kids who wanted their father’s attention 24/7. The adjustment was difficult but had to be done. The inverse of that is that I have watched our kids grow and that has been special.

I have learnt to accommodate them, re-strategise and find new ways of working. I actually don’t envy going back into the office anymore.

Q5: How do you see the industry in which you work change post-Covid?

A5: The industry I work in has flourished just due to the nature of it. My clients need to remit money and require additional balance sheet to grow their respective businesses. Covid has led to a lot of businesses shutting down, travel being suspended and people losing their jobs.

There is a saying – in chaos there is always opportunity.

The effects of the pandemic have led to MFI’s requiring more balance sheets exposure from bank to lend to their clients who have either lost their jobs, and require funds just to survive.

In the money service business world – remittances have shot through the roof as people are sending their loved ones money to help through these tough times.

This has led to an uptick of business and in some cases has more than doubled.

Q6: What would you like to be remembered for - what type of legacy would you like to leave?

A6: I would like to be remembered as a great father, friend, husband and someone who is not only passionate about giving back but stands up for what they believe in.

Q7: As we wrap up the year and reflect on where we are, are you happy with what you achieved this year?

A7: This has been an exceptionally extraordinary year which has exceeded all my expectations. I am only looking forward to grow from here and help others grow in whatever capacity I can.

Any difference I can make in someone else’s life goes a long way, and hope that it reciprocates.

Q8: Which fictional character do you resonate with, and why?

A8: My favourite fictional character is Superman, but I resonate with Thanos - not because he is seen as a villain, but because he is resolute in his beliefs (right or wrong) and gives his everything to achieve his ambitions. I also love his quotes as some of them are motivational.

Grind Feed: Hamilton Ndlovu