Standard Bank Group, the parent company of Stanbic Bank Ghana, has once again lifted the African flag high on the global stage after being named among Forbes’ World’s Best Employers for 2025 — emerging as Africa’s number one employer and ranking 28th globally out of 900 top multinational and multi-jurisdictional corporations.
This recognition not only reaffirms the bank’s commitment to its people and its purpose but also highlights its leadership in shaping the future of work across the African continent. Standard Bank stands as a true symbol of African excellence, having consistently demonstrated innovation, inclusivity, and a deep sense of purpose that resonates beyond borders.
Standard Bank’s impressive performance in the Forbes World’s Best Employers list cements its place among the elite organizations shaping global work culture. The bank’s ranking as the highest-rated company from Africa and South Africa, and third globally in the Banking and Financial Services sector out of 119 companies, is a powerful testament to its people-first culture and visionary leadership.
The Forbes list, compiled annually in partnership with Statista, is based on independent and anonymous surveys completed by more than 300,000 employees across over 50 countries. Employees evaluated their employers on various criteria including work-life balance, opportunities for career growth, diversity, inclusion, and overall workplace satisfaction.
Such recognition is not easily earned. It reflects the confidence and pride employees have in their organization — and in Standard Bank’s case, it underscores the bank’s enduring commitment to building a workplace where employees can thrive, grow, and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s transformation.
Commitment to People and Purpose
Sim Tshabalala, Chief Executive of Standard Bank Group, expressed immense pride in the achievement, attributing it to the dedication and purpose-driven culture of the bank’s employees.
“Standard Bankers are deeply committed to our purpose and to the people we serve. This prestigious recognition by Forbes, for the fourth year, is a testament to our 54,000 people, their unwavering commitment, and their impact on sustainable growth throughout Africa.”
Sim Tshabalala
His remarks highlight the cornerstone of Standard Bank’s success — a workforce deeply aligned with its mission to drive sustainable progress across Africa.
Sharon Taylor, Chief People and Culture Officer at Standard Bank Group, further emphasized that the organization’s people are its greatest strength. “Our people are our greatest source of sustainable competitive advantage. We are committed to their growth and in turn, they are the driving force behind the growth of our clients and the continent,” she explained.
“Africa is our home, we drive her growth’ is not just a statement of purpose – it is something all Standard Bankers have the opportunity to truly live. We are deeply honoured that our powerful value proposition has once again been underscored by Forbes.”
Sharon Taylor
These sentiments reflect the deep-rooted belief within the bank that its success is intricately linked to the empowerment and well-being of its employees — a principle that continues to shape its culture and achievements.
A Tradition of Global Recognition
This latest recognition by Forbes adds to a growing list of international accolades for Standard Bank. The bank was recently named among TIME Magazine’s World’s Best Companies and Newsweek’s World’s Most Trustworthy Companies for 2025, highlighting its consistency in delivering excellence across various dimensions — from ethical business practices to sustainable growth and employee satisfaction.
Such global recognition speaks volumes about Standard Bank’s ability to compete on the world stage while maintaining its African identity. It demonstrates that African institutions can not only meet global standards but also set new benchmarks for performance, integrity, and inclusivity.
At the heart of Standard Bank’s success is its clear and unwavering purpose: “Africa is our home, we drive her growth.” This statement is not a mere slogan — it is a lived philosophy embedded in every level of the organization.
From driving financial inclusion and supporting SMEs to empowering communities through sustainable initiatives, Standard Bank continues to play a transformative role across the continent. The same spirit extends internally — by fostering a culture that values diversity, innovation, and personal development.
Its comprehensive people strategy prioritizes career progression, continuous learning, leadership development, and a strong sense of belonging. These elements, combined with its forward-looking policies, have made Standard Bank an employer of choice not only in Africa but globally.
Standard Bank’s recognition by Forbes as one of the World’s Best Employers and Africa’s top employer marks yet another milestone in its journey of purpose-driven leadership. It serves as an inspiration for other African institutions, demonstrating that investing in people is the surest way to build sustainable success and global credibility.
As the bank continues to innovate and expand its impact, it remains grounded in the belief that the growth of its people and the growth of Africa are inseparable.
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