Executive Head of Design

Absa Personal and Private Banking

Sivan Lapidus is the Head of Design for Absa Personal and Private Bank, where she leads a multidisciplinary team of over 130 professionals shaping customer-centric digital experiences for more than 10 million customers.



As a member of the Absa Digital Executive Committee, she has spearheaded the design of award-winning innovations including ChatWallet, AbsaID, and Credit Coach, redefining how Africans bank in the digital age.


With over two decades of experience in financial services design, Sivan is a recognized thought leader in human-centered UX. She has spoken at global conferences and was recently appointed to the Board of Directors for the Design Institute of South Africa, where she champions authentic design leadership and

inclusive transformation at a national scale. 

Fireside chat

How Can Fraud Prevention and Great Experiences Coexist?

In a world where digital fraud is becoming increasingly sophisticated, organisations face a constant balancing act between protecting customers and delivering seamless experiences. This conversation will explore how businesses can design security measures that not only safeguard users but also strengthen confidence and trust.

Panellists will discuss the concept of "good friction", the role of customer education, and how thoughtful approaches to authentication, verification, and risk management can support rather than hinder customer experiences. Through practical insights and debate, the session will challenge the notion that security and usability are competing priorities, exploring how organisations can use both to build stronger, more trusted relationships with their customers.

Talk topic

Talk topic