Case Study Profile: Brenda Tsvetu

Brenda Tsvetu, Margin Performance Measurement Manager, Firstrand Banking Group

Describe your role

My role at Firstrand Banking Group involves analysing the bank’s performance in terms of its margins and the reporting thereof, both internally and externally. Performance is linked to the bank’s funding and cost of funding, and these are taken into account.

What did you study and why?

I am a Chartered Accountant and I wanted to study further; the Certificate in International Treasury Management (CertITM) was perfect for me since I am employed in the treasury department of one of the largest banks in South Africa. I started the ACT qualification a year after I joined the treasury department in the bank.

I chose to study CertITM because one needs to always aim forward in all they do. I think it is important to always seek to improve yourself in whatever area of your life, including your career. I also needed to get a deeper understanding of the treasury space I had joined in addition to the work that I was already directly involved in.

Practical understanding

CertITM gave me a practical understanding of treasury and its functions; the course also covers international markets which is important as it gives an overview of international treasury management.

The ACT qualification has enabled me to understand treasury functions over and above my own day-to-day work which helps me to think outside of the box and to apply the principles in my own work. I also take with me a better understanding when attending meetings with people that perform other functions.

Tools necessary for the workplace

Professional qualifications are extremely important as they are not only theoretical but they give you the tools necessary for the work place.

I would encourage potential students to take up the qualification if they work in a treasury department. The ACT qualification breaks down the principles in an easy and understandable way.