Position Summary
This position is tasked with advancing Visa’s regulatory and policy goals by cultivating strategic partnerships with critical government representatives, policymakers, public opinion leaders, and regulatory authorities across anglophone West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Oversee and execute core duties encompassing strategic planning, operational management, and cross-functional collaboration to drive organizational objectives forward. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and performance metrics to ensure efficiency, compliance, and continuous improvement across all departments. Lead and mentor teams to foster a high-performance culture, aligning individual goals with broader business strategies. Analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and internal data to inform decision-making and identify growth opportunities. Serve as a primary liaison between executive leadership, stakeholders, and external partners to facilitate seamless communication and alignment of priorities. Monitor financial performance, resource allocation, and risk management to maintain fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Champion innovation and process optimization initiatives to enhance productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction. Ensure adherence to legal, regulatory, and ethical standards while promoting a culture of accountability and transparency throughout the organization.
Formulate and implement a comprehensive West African Government Affairs strategy, establishing definitive objectives, schedules, and initiatives in harmony with Visa’s global policy directives and regional priorities.
Oversee operational functions encompassing budget management, reporting, and the punctual provision of high-quality deliverables such as position papers, policy briefs, analyses, and engagement plans.
Formulate policy strategies that advance corporate objectives while offering expert direction to foster market expansion and drive innovation.
Track legislation, regulations, and policies to protect and advance Visa’s strategic interests, actively championing outcomes that align with the company’s objectives.
Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with government entities, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral institutions. Serve as Visa’s representative in key forums to influence and shape payment policy initiatives.
Implement best practices in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory monitoring, refine processes for efficiency and impact.
Facilitate internal understanding of Government Affairs initiatives by delivering comprehensive training sessions, conducting informative briefings, and providing timely updates.
Proven expertise in critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical decision-making is essential for success in this role. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are required to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment is crucial. Proficiency in relevant software, tools, or methodologies pertinent to the position is mandatory. Leadership qualities, including team motivation and conflict resolution, are highly valued. Additionally, a commitment to continuous professional development and adaptability to evolving industry trends is expected.
Profound knowledge of the digital payments sector, including its economic and societal implications, is essential.
Demonstrates exceptional skill in evaluating, deciphering, and forecasting regulatory developments and policy structures that influence digital payment systems and fintech environments.
Demonstrated success in designing and executing stakeholder engagement strategies.
Extensive expertise in navigating the business and political landscapes of Nigeria is essential.
Demonstrates a deep understanding of both political dynamics and commercial strategies, ensuring informed decision-making in complex environments.
Creative and forward-thinking individuals thrive in this role, where innovative problem-solving and fresh perspectives are essential.
You must possess superior verbal and written communication abilities to convey information clearly and engage effectively with others.
Accomplished in budget oversight, financial planning, and strategic resource allocation, with a proven ability to manage fiscal responsibilities efficiently and accurately.
Thrives in high-pressure environments while maintaining composure and productivity.
A proactive and driven individual who thrives in both independent and collaborative settings while requiring minimal oversight.
Exceptional ability to collaborate effectively within a team and across diverse functional areas is essential.
Proficient in utilizing a range of computer applications and systems, with strong typing skills and familiarity with standard software suites. Capable of navigating operating systems, managing files, and performing basic troubleshooting tasks independently. Comfortable learning new digital tools and adapting to evolving technology platforms as needed.
Job Scope
The position is accountable to the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs for Western and Central Africa.
Collaborates extensively with colleagues across country, CEMEA hub-level, and global levels, engaging with teams in Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products.
Works closely with global Government Affairs colleagues to establish and enhance best practices.
As the primary authority on policy, regulatory matters, and government relations, this role provides expert guidance to cross-divisional business teams, ensuring alignment with applicable laws and strategic objectives.
The position requires regular travel throughout English-speaking West African countries.
This role is offered on a hybrid basis, with the specific in-office days to be determined in consultation with your Hiring Manager.
Qualifications
We are seeking candidates who meet the following essential criteria: a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the field, a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, and proficiency with industry-standard software and tools. Applicants must demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, exceptional communication skills, and the capacity to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Additionally, candidates should possess leadership experience and a proven track record of driving successful project outcomes. Fluency in English is required, and familiarity with regulatory compliance standards is highly desirable.
A minimum of ten years of professional experience is required, alongside a Bachelor’s degree, or at least seven years of experience in conjunction with an advanced degree such as a Master’s, MBA, JD, or MD, or three years of experience with a PhD.
Preferred Qualifications
We seek candidates with a minimum of twelve years of pertinent professional experience and a Bachelor’s degree, nine or more years with an advanced degree, or at least five years with a doctoral qualification.
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in Public Policy, International Relations, Law, or a closely related discipline is required.
With a proven track record spanning a decade to twelve years, the ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in government relations, regulatory frameworks, or public policy arenas.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
10 years
