Position Summary
This position plays a pivotal role in advancing Visa’s regulatory and policy goals by fostering strategic partnerships with critical government stakeholders, policymakers, public opinion leaders, and regulatory bodies across anglophone West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Oversee and execute a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to managing daily operations, coordinating team activities, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Develop and implement strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency, productivity, and overall performance. Serve as a primary point of contact for stakeholders, addressing inquiries and fostering strong collaborative relationships. Monitor key performance indicators to evaluate progress and identify areas for improvement. Prepare and present detailed reports on operational metrics, project statuses, and financial outcomes to senior leadership. Participate in cross-functional meetings to align departmental efforts with broader company objectives. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and quality standards. Support the recruitment, training, and professional development of team members to maintain a skilled and motivated workforce.
Devising and implementing a comprehensive West African Government Affairs strategy entails establishing distinct objectives, structured timelines, and actionable initiatives that align with Visa’s overarching global policy framework and regional priorities.
Oversee all operational functions such as budget management, reporting, and the punctual delivery of meticulously crafted position papers, policy briefs, in-depth analyses, and strategic engagement plans.
Facilitate the alignment of strategic policy initiatives with overarching business objectives, offering expert guidance to advance market expansion and foster innovation.
Monitor and shape legislation, regulations, and policies to advance Visa’s strategic interests, ensuring favorable outcomes through proactive advocacy.
Forge and maintain strong partnerships with government entities, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral institutions. Advocate for Visa’s interests in high-level policy discussions and strategic forums to influence the development of payment regulations and standards.
Advocate for and implement industry-leading practices in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory oversight while continuously refining processes to enhance both efficiency and influence.
Facilitate the dissemination of Government Affairs initiatives by delivering training sessions, conducting briefings, and providing timely updates to internal stakeholders.
Demonstrated proficiency in essential skills and abilities relevant to the role is required, including strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative teamwork capabilities. Candidates should exhibit adaptability to dynamic work environments and a commitment to continuous professional development. Proficiency in industry-specific tools or methodologies, along with a solution-oriented mindset, is highly valued. Additionally, the ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently in a fast-paced setting.
Proficient knowledge of the digital payments sector, including its economic significance and broader social implications.
Demonstrates a robust capacity to evaluate, interpret, and forecast regulatory and policy developments that influence digital payment systems and the broader fintech landscape.
Accomplished track record in designing and executing stakeholder engagement strategies.
Proficiency in navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s business and political landscapes is essential.
Demonstrates a keen understanding of political dynamics and business strategy.
A capacity for original and visionary problem-solving is essential.
Proven ability to convey information clearly and effectively through both spoken and written channels.
Experienced in financial oversight and budgetary administration, with a strong proficiency in budget preparation, monitoring, and strategic allocation of resources.
Demonstrates resilience and composure in high-pressure environments while maintaining productivity and focus.
A proactive and driven professional who excels in both independent work and collaborative team environments, capable of delivering results with minimal oversight.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively within teams and collaborate seamlessly across various functions.
Proficient in utilizing computers and related software applications is essential.
Job Scope
The position reports directly to the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs overseeing Western and Central Africa.
Collaborates extensively with colleagues at the country, CEMEA hub, and global levels, encompassing teams such as Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products.
Works collaboratively with Government Affairs colleagues across different regions to establish and enhance best practices.
Acts as a key advisor to cross-divisional business teams on matters related to policy, regulatory affairs, and government relations.
This position requires extensive travel across English-speaking countries in West Africa.
This role is designed as a hybrid position, with the specific office attendance schedule to be determined in consultation with your Hiring Manager.
Seeking a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, complemented by at least three years of hands-on experience in a comparable role. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in industry-standard software, and the ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams are essential. The ideal applicant will demonstrate exceptional problem-solving capabilities and a commitment to continuous professional development. Responsibilities include overseeing project execution, ensuring compliance with organizational standards, and driving process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
Seeking candidates with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least three years of professional experience in a comparable role. Must possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in industry-standard software tools, and excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Familiarity with project management methodologies and regulatory compliance standards is essential.
We seek candidates with a minimum of ten years of relevant professional experience, supported by a Bachelor’s degree, or at least seven years of experience paired with an advanced degree such as a Master’s, MBA, JD, or MD, or three years of experience for those holding a PhD.
Preferred Qualifications include a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Engineering, or Data Analytics, along with 3+ years of professional experience in industry-specific roles. Proficiency in statistical analysis, machine learning, or data visualization tools is highly desirable, as is familiarity with programming languages like Python or R. Strong analytical abilities, problem-solving skills, and the capacity to interpret complex datasets are essential for success in this position. Additional assets may include certifications in data science or domain-specific expertise, along with experience collaborating in cross-functional teams.
A minimum of 12 years of professional experience combined with a Bachelor’s degree, 9+ years with an advanced degree, or 5+ years with a PhD is required.
A bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent, in Public Policy, International Relations, Law, or a closely related discipline is required.
With a decade to twelve years of hands-on experience in government relations, regulatory affairs, or public policy, you bring a seasoned perspective to this role. Your background demonstrates a deep understanding of navigating complex legislative and policy landscapes, ensuring compliance, and advocating for organizational interests at the highest levels.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
10 years
