This episode explores how strategy is executed inside a fast-growing challenger bank and what it takes to translate strategic intent into measurable impact at scale.

I speak with Cheslyn Jacobs, CEO of GoTyme Bank, one of South Africa’s fastest-growing digital banks. As a founding team member, Cheslyn has been central to shaping the bank’s model and scaling it to millions of customers. We discuss the strategic choices, organisational capabilities, and leadership decisions that help strategy stick in a fast-moving financial services market.

About the guest: Cheslyn Jacobs is Chief Executive Officer of GoTyme Bank, one of South Africa’s leading digital challenger banks. A founding team member, he has played a central role in building the business and shaping its customer-centric, technology-driven banking model. Cheslyn was appointed CEO effective January 2026, following leadership roles including Chief Commercial Officer, where he was responsible for revenue growth, sales and customer engagement as the bank scaled its operations. Since launching in 2019, GoTyme Bank has grown to serve millions of customers through its accessible and transparent digital banking model. Prior to joining GoTyme, Jacobs held roles at Standard Bank and Deloitte. He holds a BCom in Industrial Psychology from the University of the Western Cape and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management from the Gordon Institute of Business Science.

About GoTyme Bank: GoTyme Bank, formerly TymeBank, is a leading digital bank in South Africa and part of the global Tyme Group – a digital banking group operating across multiple markets (Philippines, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Vietnam and Singapore) and serving 20 million customers. Since launching in February 2019, the South African bank has grown rapidly to serve over 12 million customers, with a clear focus on simplicity, transparency, and empowerment. Designed to make everyday banking more accessible, GoTyme Bank offers zero monthly banking fees, digital onboarding that takes less than 5 minutes, free instant payments, and market-leading savings rates. GoTyme Bank has been recognised globally, including being named on the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list in 2025, reflecting its impact on digital banking innovation. Customers can access services through a combination of the GoTyme app, service kiosks, and a network of retail partners that support cash-in and cash-out transactions. In addition to retail banking, GoTyme Bank plays an important role in supporting small businesses through its merchant cash advance offering, helping to expand access to funding for millions of SMEs across the country.

If you’d like to explore the leadership books Cheslyn mentioned, you can find it here:

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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational and discussion purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. Listeners should consult a qualified advisor before making any business or investment decisions.