Ernesto Jacobs

Motivated and accredited Candidate Engineer with a comprehensive background spanning more than a year in engineering methodologies, data analysis, and foundational financial analysis. Aiming to contribute my expertise to a cohesive team of driven professionals who share a collective commitment to advancing the landscape of South Africa through impactful initiatives.

2019: Vacation Work Student | GIBB Engineering

• Expanded my understanding of both current and historical civil engineering projects through thorough research and comprehensive project reviews.
• Enhanced project draft reports by providing valuable editing and improvement suggestions.
• Actively participated in discussions surrounding ongoing projects and operational workflows.
• Received comprehensive training in dam systems, calculations, and construction processes, laying the foundation for expertise in this area.

2021- 2022: Research Aid | University of the Witwatersrand

• Conducted comprehensive research focused on the sizing and life cycle analysis of rainwater harvesting systems, specifically for the City of Johannesburg.
• Analyzed various potential locations within the city that would derive substantial benefits from the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems.
• Developed an Excel VBA code to automate the life cycle costing analysis of rainwater harvesting systems, streamlining the evaluation process.
• Played an integral role in engaging with representatives from the City of Johannesburg through active participation in meetings. Provided valuable feedback on research findings and collaborated to incorporate changes in alignment with their project-specific recommendations and requirements.

2022 – 2023: Trainee | National Empowerment Fund

• Assigned to diverse roles to offer support, troubleshoot issues, and enhance precision, ultimately ensuring punctual meeting of deadlines.
• Undertook a range of data capturing and validation tasks to maintain data integrity.
• Delivered exceptional customer engagement when needed, fostering positive interactions.
• Collaborated as a member of the finance team in conducting internal financial audits.
• Developed customized spreadsheets that efficiently organized and compared data collected by the finance team, resulting in a 50% reduction in turnaround times and minimizing human errors.

2023 – Present: Investment Analyst | National Empowerment Fund

• Performed financial data analysis to assist in the decision-making processes, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling.
• Gathered and organized financial data from various sources to prepare reports and presentations.
• Diligently maintained accurate documentation of financial transactions and reports in strict adherence to company policies and regulatory guidelines.
• Facilitated and participated in various due diligence site visits to assess the operational, financial, and strategic aspects of target companies.
• Effectively communicated financial insights and recommendations to both team members and senior management, fostering clear and informed decision-making.
• Presented comprehensive investment proposals to committees for evaluation and approval, highlighting key financial metrics, market analysis, and risk assessments.

BSc Civil Engineering (Hons) | University of the Witwatersrand

• Graduated in April 2022.
• Worked on structural, hydrological, and geotechnical projects actively taking a leadership role.
• Achieved an average greater than 60%.

Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate | Online

• Currently in progress.
• Averaging 80% and above in all graded material.

Introduction to Corporate Finance (Mergers & Acquisitions) | Online

• Completed in December 2023.
• Free online course aimed at personal knowledge development.