Standard Bank has cemented its leadership in corporate social responsibility and real estate management by becoming the first African-based bank to secure the WELL Health-Safety Rating for a significant portion of its corporate portfolio.
Fifteen of the bank’s corporate buildings, encompassing a vast 353,000 square metres nationwide, received the accreditation through the International WELL Building Institute’s (IWBI) “WELL at scale” pathway. This third-party verified, evidence-based annual rating recognises businesses that rigorously prioritize the health and safety of their employees and visitors.
The achievement is a key indicator of the bank’s commitment to its social and governance strategies. Margaret Nienaber, Standard Bank Group’s COO, highlighted the strategic importance of the recognition. “Achieving the WELL Health-Safety Rating is a significant milestone that demonstrates our commitment to putting our people and clients at the centre of everything we do,” she stated.
The rating verifies that the sites adhere to rigorous health and safety measures, which include cleaner air and water systems, enhanced sanitation, emergency preparedness plans, and the provision of mental health resources and smoke-free environments.
Nkosinathi Manzana, Group Head of Real Estate Services at Standard Bank, emphasized the operational benefits. “The WELL programme enables our organisations to implement and measure health and wellbeing strategies across our real estate portfolios,” he said. The bank has also trained 16 WELL Accredited Professionals to ensure these high standards are embedded across its entire operation.
Rachel Hodgdon, president and CEO of the IWBI, praised the bank’s leadership. “By engaging WELL at scale, Standard Bank is demonstrating how a consistent, scalable approach to workplace wellbeing can drive operational excellence and long-term business resilience. This achievement…sets a powerful example for the financial sector across Africa and beyond.”
Manzana concluded, “As Africa’s largest bank by assets, we have a responsibility to lead by example. Joining WELL at scale reflects our belief that sustainable growth begins with people, ensuring that every person who walks through our doors feels safe, supported, and valued.”