Noma Dzinotyiwei | Transformational Leader in Financial Services | Expert in Programme & Product Management | Champion of Inclusive & Strategic Leadership
Meet Noma Dzinotyiwei from Gauteng, South Africa.
A dynamic and forward-thinking leader, Noma Dzinotyiwei brings over a decade of expertise in financial services, specializing in programme and product management. With a passion for innovation and inclusive leadership, she has successfully led high-impact initiatives that drive strategic growth and operational excellence. Committed to transforming workplace culture, Noma empowers teams to thrive in an evolving corporate landscape.
Early Foundations: A Passion for Strategy and Leadership
Noma Dzinotyiwei’s journey into the world of financial services and leadership was built on a strong academic foundation. She earned her Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Politics and Administration from the University of Zimbabwe, where she honed her analytical thinking and understanding of organizational structures. Her passion for business and leadership led her to pursue an MBA from Africa University, equipping her with the strategic mindset that would later define her career.
Even in her academic years, Noma displayed an innate ability to navigate complex systems and lead with a purpose-driven approach. As a member of the Sports Council and a player on the university’s hockey team, she demonstrated teamwork, resilience, and the ability to make quick, strategic decisions—skills that would later shape her leadership style in the corporate world.
Breaking Into the Financial Sector: A Rising Leader
Noma’s career trajectory reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous learning. She joined Absa Group, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, where she quickly established herself as a versatile and results-driven professional. Over the past ten years, she has risen through the ranks, taking on roles that span international trade, product management, and programme leadership. Reflecting on her decade-long journey at Absa, Noma once shared:
“It’s been challenging, occasionally frustrating, but a great learning experience in every role. I have been stretched in ways I never thought possible.”
Her early roles saw her managing international trade products, where she developed an acute understanding of global markets, financial regulations, and risk management. With each challenge, she refined her expertise in product development, financial analysis, and business strategy, preparing herself for larger leadership responsibilities.
Driving Change in Payments and Product Management
As her career progressed, Noma took on key leadership positions, including Head of International Payments and Financial Institutions’ Products and Head of Product Management, Credit Card Issuing. In these roles, she played a critical part in optimizing payment systems, spearheading product innovation, and ensuring that financial solutions met the evolving needs of businesses and consumers.
Her ability to navigate the complexities of financial services, coupled with her strategic mindset, made her an asset in the ever-evolving payments landscape. Yet, beyond the technical aspects of the industry, Noma recognized a deeper challenge—workplace culture and leadership dynamics. She has openly shared her insights on corporate politics and leadership, stating:
“I naively thought that everyone comes to work to do a good job—there are lazy people who will steal credit from others to get ahead.”
These experiences fueled her commitment to authentic leadership, where transparency, integrity, and inclusion form the foundation of high-performing teams.
Championing Inclusion, Leadership, and Workplace Transformation
In her current role as Head of Programme Management at Absa Group, Noma leads with a vision that extends beyond financial growth. She is a champion of inclusive leadership, advocating for workplace environments that empower talent and foster genuine collaboration. She has been vocal about the outdated corporate structures that stifle innovation, emphasizing:
“We need a mutually supportive ecosystem, not a ‘dog eat dog’ food chain in the corporate environment.”
Her leadership philosophy is built on mentorship, emotional intelligence, and strategic execution. She understands that the success of an organization is not just about profits but also about cultivating a workplace culture that encourages growth, innovation, and well-being.
“Anxiety in a leader can manifest as micro-management… Managing emotions is an essential skill.”
Her insights highlight the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in leadership, reinforcing the idea that great leaders do not just manage projects—they inspire people.
A Legacy of Impact and Innovation
With a track record of excellence, an unwavering commitment to inclusive leadership, and a forward-thinking approach to financial services, Noma Dzinotyiwei continues to be a driving force in the industry. Whether she is leading complex programmes, mentoring future leaders, or challenging the status quo, her impact is undeniable.
At the heart of her journey is a simple yet profound belief: leadership is not about holding power—it is about empowering others. As she continues to shape the future of financial services, her story serves as an inspiration for those who aspire to lead with authenticity, resilience, and purpose.
The Nectar of Wisdom from Noma Dzinotyiwei’s Journey
- Leadership Requires Emotional Intelligence – “Anxiety in a leader can manifest as micro-management… Managing emotions is an essential skill.”
- Corporate Politics Cannot Be Ignored – “I naively thought that everyone comes to work to do a good job—there are lazy people who will steal credit from others to get ahead.”
- True Leadership is About Empowerment – “We need a mutually supportive ecosystem, not a ‘dog eat dog’ food chain in the corporate environment.”
- Growth Comes from Challenges – “I have been stretched in ways I never thought possible.”
- Kindness is a Business Asset – “Kindness creates energy. Kindness costs nothing.”
Editorial Note
Noma Dzinotyiwei’s journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and inclusive leadership, inspiring professionals across industries. Her insights challenge outdated norms, paving the way for a more empowered corporate culture. With a deep commitment to empowering teams and driving meaningful change, she continues to shape the industry with vision and integrity. Executives Diary salutes Noma’s dedication to excellence and leadership. Truly, her legacy is one of impact and inspiration.
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