Position Summary
This position is tasked with advancing Visa’s regulatory and policy goals by cultivating strategic partnerships with essential government representatives, policymakers, thought leaders, and regulatory authorities across anglophone West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Oversee and execute a range of critical duties, including but not limited to managing project timelines, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring adherence to company policies and industry regulations. Conduct regular assessments of operational efficiency, identify areas for improvement, and implement strategic initiatives to enhance productivity and performance. Serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, fostering strong relationships through clear communication and collaboration. Prepare detailed reports, analyze data to inform decision-making, and present actionable insights to senior leadership. Additionally, mentor junior staff, delegate tasks effectively, and uphold high standards of quality and accountability in all deliverables.
Devising and implementing a comprehensive West African Government Affairs strategy entails establishing distinct goals, structured timelines, and actionable initiatives that align with Visa’s overarching global policy framework and region-specific priorities.
Oversee all operational activities, ensuring budgets are meticulously managed, reports are generated punctually, and high-quality position papers, policy briefs, analyses, and engagement plans are delivered in a timely manner.
Align policy efforts with strategic business objectives, delivering expert direction to facilitate market expansion and foster innovation.
Monitor and shape legislation, regulations, and policies to safeguard and advance Visa’s strategic interests, consistently advocating for outcomes that align with the company’s objectives.
Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with governmental entities, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral institutions. Advocate for Visa’s interests by engaging in high-level policy discussions and representing the company in key forums to influence payment regulations.
Improve advocacy strategies, enhance stakeholder engagement, and ensure rigorous regulatory monitoring while refining existing processes to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
Facilitate internal understanding of Government Affairs initiatives by delivering training sessions, conducting informative briefings, and providing timely updates to ensure alignment and engagement across the organization.
Demonstrated expertise in core capabilities essential for success in this role, including analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Proficiency in interpreting data to inform strategic decisions and drive operational improvements. Strong leadership qualities to inspire and guide teams toward achieving organizational objectives. Exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Capability to foster collaboration and build consensus among stakeholders. Thorough attention to detail to ensure accuracy and compliance in all processes.
A sound knowledge of the digital payments sector, including its economic and social implications, is essential.
Proven expertise in evaluating, interpreting, and forecasting regulatory and policy changes that influence digital payment systems and fintech environments.
Demonstrated success in designing and executing strategies to cultivate and maintain stakeholder relationships.
Possesses comprehensive expertise in the business and political landscapes of Nigeria.
Demonstrates a keen understanding of political dynamics and business operations, coupled with strategic insight and practical judgment.
Exceptional creativity and forward-thinking capabilities are essential for driving innovative solutions and strategic advancements.
You must possess outstanding verbal and written communication abilities.
A proven track record in budgeting and financial management is essential, requiring expertise in overseeing fiscal operations and strategic allocation of resources.
Aptitude for thriving in high-pressure environments is essential.
A proactive and driven individual who excels in both independent and collaborative work environments, demonstrating the ability to operate effectively with minimal oversight.
Exceptional ability to work effectively within a team and collaborate seamlessly across various functions.
Proficient in utilizing a variety of computer applications and software proficiently.
Job Scope
Reports directly to both the Senior Director and the Head of Government Affairs for Western and Central Africa, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and regulatory priorities across the region.
Collaborates extensively with colleagues at the country, CEMEA hub, and global levels, encompassing teams in Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products.
Works alongside global Government Affairs colleagues to establish and enhance best practices collaboratively.
Provides specialized guidance on policy matters, regulatory challenges, and government relations to cross-divisional business teams.
This position requires regular travel across English-speaking countries in West Africa.
This role operates on a hybrid basis, with the specific schedule to be determined in consultation with your designated Hiring Manager.
Seeking a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, along with a minimum of three years of experience in software development or IT support. Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++ is essential, along with strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Familiarity with database management systems and cloud computing platforms is preferred. The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent communication abilities and the capacity to work collaboratively in a team environment. Responsibilities include developing and maintaining software applications, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring system security and performance.
* Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field required; alternatively, equivalent practical experience may be considered.
* Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in software development, with a focus on backend systems or distributed computing.
* Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or Go.
* Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure) and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
* Strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and system design principles.
* Familiarity with databases, including SQL and NoSQL solutions.
* Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
* Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team setting.
* Demonstrated ability to lead technical projects and mentor junior engineers.
A minimum of 10 years of professional experience is required, along with a Bachelor’s degree, or alternatively, 7 years of experience with an advanced degree such as a Master’s, MBA, JD, or MD, or at least 3 years with a PhD.
Preferred candidates will demonstrate expertise in the specified domain, possessing a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience. A bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, while an advanced degree or additional certifications may provide a competitive advantage. Proven abilities in project management, analytical thinking, and problem-solving are essential, along with strong communication skills for collaboration with cross-functional teams. Familiarity with industry-standard tools and methodologies will be highly valued.
A minimum of 12 years of pertinent professional experience is required, accompanied by a Bachelor’s degree. Alternatively, candidates with an advanced degree must possess at least 9 years of relevant experience, while those holding a PhD need a minimum of 5 years of applicable work history.
A bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent, 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 positions is required.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
10 years
