Diversity and inclusion

Africa's diversity is one of our greatest sources of strength. We're committed to creating equitable opportunities. We foster a culture of inclusion and unlock the potential of every person who chooses to grow their career with us.

We bring this commitment to life through the following:

Strengthening diversity

We honour Africa’s vast diversity by welcoming every perspective. When we embrace our differences, we unlock collective insight that fuels collaboration, inspires new thinking and drives meaningful progress. Together, we are building a future where Africa’s diversity becomes a catalyst for growth.

Facilitating equitable access

Our people practices are fair and transparent, ensuring equal access to opportunities. Guided by global best practice, we champion human rights and work to remove barriers that hold people back. Equity is how we meet people where they are, so that more of us can grow.

Encouraging conscious inclusion

We are building a culture where curiosity replaces bias, people feel safe to speak, and belonging is created in the everyday moments. Here, every individual is empowered to contribute authentically. Inclusion is the spark that ignites innovation and shapes Africa’s future.

How we define diversity, equity and inclusion

Diversity

Recognising and valuing the unique experiences shaped by our differences.

Inclusion

Consciously creating space for every person to be seen, heard and supported, regardless of identity.

Equity

Creating fair access and opportunities by addressing barriers and disparities, so people reach their full potential.

Belonging

Is a result of all three elements being taken into consideration.

Employee Forums

Our employee forums are spaces where every voice matters. These networks foster learning and collaboration while creating a sense of belonging across the organisation. They offer opportunities to share experiences, exchange ideas and champion diversity. The outputs of these forums influences the shaping of policies, informs strategy and enables meaningful change both within Standard Bank Group and in the communities we serve.

Living our Values

Inclusion is strengthened through the actions we take every day. Our organisational values guide how we show up for one another and for the people we serve:

Read more about our values

Facilitating gender equity

Africa’s growth is accelerated when the voices, leadership and potential of all genders are fully realised. We recognise that women have historically faced barriers to leadership and are intentional about removing these obstacles while expanding access to opportunity. At the same time, we support men in embracing evolving expectations of leadership, fostering allyship and creating a place to work where they too feel valued and empowered. To demonstrate our commitment, we are transparent about our progress including representation of women in leadership, on our boards, in senior management, across promotions and in our recruitment practises.

Driving gender equity

download report

SBG board members

35.7%

women (as at end 2024)

Senior leadership

42%

women (as at end 2024)

2024 promotions

56%

women (as at end 2024)

2024 women hires

49%

women (as at end 2024)

Promoting diversity through our code of ethics

We are committed to protecting dignity, fairness and equality across our organisation.

As signatories to global human rights conventions, we uphold international standards while respecting local laws in every country where we operate.

Download our Code of ethics