Position Summary
This position is tasked with advancing Visa’s regulatory and policy priorities by cultivating meaningful relationships with critical stakeholders, including government leaders, policymakers, public figures, and regulatory authorities across anglophone West Africa—comprising Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Oversee and execute a range of critical duties, including managing project timelines, coordinating team efforts, and ensuring adherence to company standards. Lead and mentor team members to foster collaboration and professional growth while maintaining accountability for performance outcomes. Develop and implement strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and drive measurable results. Serve as a primary point of contact for stakeholders, facilitating clear communication and resolving escalated issues. Monitor progress through regular assessments, providing data-driven insights to inform decision-making and continuous improvement.
Craft and implement a comprehensive West African Government Affairs strategy, establishing distinct objectives, structured timelines, and actionable steps in harmony with Visa’s overarching global policy framework and key regional priorities.
Oversee operational functions encompassing budget management, reporting, and the prompt delivery of meticulously prepared position papers, policy briefs, analyses, and strategic engagement plans.
Align policy initiatives with business goals and provide guidance to support market growth and innovation.
Monitor and shape legislation, regulations, and policy initiatives to safeguard and advance Visa’s strategic interests, championing favorable outcomes through proactive advocacy.
Foster and maintain strong partnerships with government entities, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral institutions. Serve as Visa’s liaison in key strategic forums to influence and develop payment policies.
Improve advocacy strategies, strengthen stakeholder engagement efforts, and ensure diligent regulatory monitoring to maintain compliance. Streamline existing processes to enhance efficiency and maximize overall impact.
Facilitate the dissemination of Government Affairs information internally by delivering comprehensive training sessions, conducting informative briefings, and providing timely updates to ensure organizational awareness and alignment.
Demonstrates a strong grasp of fundamental competencies, including advanced analytical skills, exceptional communication abilities, and proficient project management expertise. Exhibits leadership qualities with a capacity to inspire teams and drive collaborative initiatives forward. Maintains a keen eye for detail while prioritizing efficiency and innovation in all assigned responsibilities.
Possessing a comprehensive grasp of the digital payments sector, including its economic and social implications, is essential.
Demonstrates exceptional skill in evaluating, understanding, and forecasting regulatory and policy changes that influence digital payments and fintech environments.
Demonstrated expertise in designing and executing stakeholder engagement strategies is required.
Possesses comprehensive expertise in the business and political landscapes across Nigeria.
Demonstrates exceptional insight into political dynamics and business strategies, enabling effective decision-making and strategic navigation in complex environments.
Creative thinking and innovative approaches are essential for this role, enabling the development of original solutions and the enhancement of existing processes. Problem-solving skills and the ability to generate fresh ideas are critical for driving progress and maintaining a competitive edge.
Proven ability to convey information clearly and effectively through both spoken and written channels.
Experienced in financial oversight, including budget preparation, allocation, and control, with a strong background in managing financial resources efficiently.
Demonstrates strong resilience and composure in high-pressure environments, maintaining performance and focus during demanding situations.
Highly driven and proactive individual who thrives both in independent roles and collaborative team settings with minimal oversight.
Effective ability to work collaboratively within a team and engage in cross-functional partnerships.
Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing computers and relevant software applications is required.
Job Scope
Duties involve reporting directly to the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs for Western and Central Africa.
Collaborates extensively with colleagues across country offices, CEMEA hub-level teams, and global departments, including Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products.
Works collaboratively with Government Affairs colleagues across international offices to establish and enhance best practices.
Acts as a primary authority on policy matters, regulatory challenges, and government relations, supporting cross-divisional business teams with specialized expertise.
Frequent travel within English-speaking West Africa is a core component of this position.
This role operates on a hybrid model, with the specific schedule of in-office days to be determined in consultation with your Hiring Manager.
Qualifications
Seeking candidates who meet the following essential criteria: at least three years of relevant professional experience, a bachelor’s degree in a related field, and proficiency in key industry tools. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities are required, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Familiarity with regulatory standards and demonstrated experience in [specific industry/task] is highly preferred. The ideal applicant should possess a keen attention to detail and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience is required, along with a Bachelor’s degree; alternatively, candidates with an advanced degree—such as a Master’s, MBA, JD, or MD—should possess at least 7 years of experience. Those holding a PhD need a minimum of 3 years in the field.
Seeking candidates with the following preferred qualifications: 3+ years of experience in a related field, proficiency in industry-specific software, and a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline. Familiarity with data analysis and project management tools is advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently are highly desired. Experience in a leadership role and excellent communication skills are also preferred.
A minimum of 12 years of pertinent professional experience is required, coupled with a Bachelor’s degree, or 9+ years with an advanced degree, or 5+ years with a PhD.
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in Public Policy, International Relations, Law, or a closely related discipline is required.
A minimum of ten to twelve years of professional experience in government relations, regulatory affairs, or public policy is required.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
10 years
