- Nkosinathi Manzana, Standard Bank Group Head of Real Estate Services
Standard Bank Group’s Real Estate Services team has been awarded the 2026 Realcomm Digie Award for Best Use of Automation in Corporate Real Estate for its advanced application of artificial intelligence and automation to transform how the bank manages property, compliance and energy data across its operations. Selected as one of only three global finalists, alongside Cisco and Alaska Airlines, and the only African organisation represented, the award position the bank at the forefront of innovation in corporate real estate.
The recognition reflects a deliberate shift within the bank to reposition real estate from a traditional cost centre to a strategic enabler of long-term value. Across Standard Bank, operational functions are increasingly aligned to support sustainable growth, improve efficiency and enhance client and employee experiences. Within this context, the management of physical infrastructure has taken on greater importance, not only in controlling costs, but in supporting productivity, resilience and environmental performance across the organisation.
Nkosinathi Manzana, Standard Bank Group Head of Real Estate Services says: “Our approach to facilities management is an extension of our broader operating model, where engineering, infrastructure and client solutions come together to enable the group to serve clients at scale. By investing in resilient, fit‑for‑purpose environments and integrating them with our technology and operational platforms, we are able to enhance efficiency, support our people, and ultimately reduce the cost to serve. This ensures we remain well positioned to deliver consistent, high‑quality client experiences while supporting sustainable growth across our African footprint.”
Real estate is now embedded in how the bank delivers on its broader strategic priorities, including responsible resource management and climate-related commitments. Improving energy efficiency, optimising the use of physical space and reducing environmental impact are no longer standalone objectives but form part of a wider, integrated approach to managing operations and risk. As a result, the way buildings are designed, managed and utilised has become a key lever in driving both performance and sustainability outcomes.
“Driving this evolution in facilities management action is the growing use of artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and digital platforms across Standard Bank’s operations. These technologies are enabling a shift away from manual and reactive processes towards predictive, data-driven decision-making. In real estate and facilities effectively and means being able to anticipate maintenance needs, optimise space utilisation, track and manage energy consumption more effectively, and respond dynamically to changing business requirements,” says Manzana.
The award recognises two internally developed solutions that demonstrate this capability in practice. The bank’s Document Compliance Agent uses generative AI to automate the extraction, classification and management of compliance documentation, significantly improving accuracy, efficiency and governance. Its Utility Bill Automation capability translates complex utility data into clear, actionable insights, enabling more effective energy management, tighter cost control and improved environmental performance across its property portfolio.
The Realcomm Digie Awards, which have recognised global leaders in technology and innovation since 1999, are widely regarded as a benchmark for excellence in corporate real estate. Being recognised among leading international organisations highlights Standard Bank’s ability to translate enterprise-wide digital transformation into tangible, high-impact operational solutions.
