Position Summary
This position plays a pivotal role in advancing Visa’s regulatory and policy priorities by fostering strategic partnerships with high-level government representatives, policymakers, influential stakeholders, and regulatory bodies across English-speaking West Africa, encompassing Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Oversee a comprehensive range of duties encompassing strategic planning, operational execution, and team leadership to drive organizational success. Develop, implement, and monitor policies, procedures, and performance metrics to ensure alignment with company objectives and industry standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline workflows, enhance productivity, and foster innovation. Manage resources, budgets, and timelines effectively to deliver high-quality results within specified constraints. Provide mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities to cultivate a high-performing workforce. Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical requirements while maintaining a strong focus on risk management and continuous improvement.
Devising and implementing a West African Government Affairs strategy demands meticulous planning, setting precise objectives, establishing feasible timelines, and outlining concrete actions that align with Visa’s overarching global policy directives and the specific regional priorities across West Africa.
Oversee operational functions encompassing budget management, reporting, and the efficient delivery of top-tier position papers, policy briefs, analyses, and engagement plans.
Develop and implement strategic policies that align with organizational objectives, offering expert direction to facilitate market expansion and foster innovation.
Monitor and shape legislation, regulation, and policy developments to safeguard and advance Visa’s strategic objectives, advocating for outcomes that align with the company’s interests.
Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with governmental organizations, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral institutions. Serve as Visa’s representative in key forums to influence and shape payment policy frameworks.
Improve advocacy strategies and enhance stakeholder engagement while ensuring rigorous regulatory monitoring, with a focus on refining processes to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
Facilitate internal training sessions, briefings, and periodic updates to enhance organizational understanding of Government Affairs initiatives.
Proven expertise in critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, coupled with strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities efficiently, is essential. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are required to collaborate seamlessly within cross-functional teams and interact with stakeholders at all levels. Demonstrated leadership capabilities, including the ability to inspire and motivate others, are necessary to drive project success. A commitment to continuous learning and adaptability in a dynamic environment ensures alignment with evolving organizational goals. Proficiency in relevant tools and technologies, along with a customer-centric mindset, further enhances performance in this role.
A solid grasp of the digital payments landscape and its broader economic and societal implications is required.
Proven expertise in evaluating, understanding, and forecasting regulatory and policy developments that influence digital payment systems and the broader fintech landscape.
Demonstrates a track record of successfully crafting and executing strategies to cultivate and manage stakeholder relationships.
Profound expertise in the business and political landscapes of Nigeria is essential.
Exceptional political insight coupled with a deep understanding of business dynamics.
Creative and innovative problem-solving skills are essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a capacity for original thought and inventive solutions to challenges.
Proven ability to convey information clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Proven expertise in budgeting and financial management is required.
Demonstrates resilience and composure in high-pressure situations, ensuring productivity and efficiency remain consistent regardless of workload or deadlines.
Accomplished and proactive professional capable of thriving in both independent and collaborative settings, delivering results with minimal oversight and seamless integration into team dynamics.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team and collaborate seamlessly across various departments.
Proficient in utilizing computer systems, software applications, and digital tools to execute tasks efficiently. Demonstrated ability to navigate operating systems, manage files, and utilize productivity suites such as Microsoft Office or Google Workspace. Familiarity with internet browsers, email platforms, and basic troubleshooting techniques is required. Strong attention to detail and adaptability to evolving technology are essential.
Job Scope
Revised:
This position is accountable 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 across Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products.
Works collaboratively with Government Affairs teams across international offices to establish, enhance, and standardize effective practices and processes.
Acts as a go-to authority on policy matters, regulatory frameworks, and government interactions for integrated business unit teams.
The position requires extensive travel throughout English-speaking West Africa.
This role offers a flexible work arrangement, combining remote and on-site work. The specific schedule, including office days, will be determined in consultation with your Hiring Manager.
Seeking a candidate with a minimum of three years of experience in a related field, possessing a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline. Strong communication skills and proficiency in project management software are essential. The ideal applicant must demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Familiarity with industry standards and compliance regulations is required. The role involves coordinating multiple tasks, meeting strict deadlines, and maintaining meticulous attention to detail.
We are seeking candidates with a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent for this entry-level position. A minimum of one year of relevant work experience is preferred but not mandatory. Applicants should possess strong communication and organizational skills, along with the ability to work independently. Proficiency in basic computer applications, such as Microsoft Office Suite, is required. Additional assets include customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and a demonstrated willingness to learn.
A minimum of ten years of pertinent professional experience is required, coupled with a Bachelor’s degree. Alternatively, the candidate may possess an advanced degree—such as a Master’s, MBA, JD, or MD—along with at least seven years of relevant work experience. Those holding a PhD need a minimum of three years of applicable background.
Preferred Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, though equivalent experience may be considered. Proficiency in specific software or tools, as well as a minimum of three years of relevant work experience, are highly desirable. Familiarity with industry standards and best practices, along with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently, is preferred. Additionally, excellent communication and teamwork abilities are essential for success in this role.
Seeking candidates with a minimum of 12 years of pertinent professional experience, complemented by a Bachelor’s degree, or alternatively, 9+ years of experience paired with an advanced degree, or 5+ years of experience along with a PhD.
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in Public Policy, International Relations, Law, or a closely related discipline is required.
With a decade to twelve years of professional experience in government relations, regulatory affairs, or public policy roles.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
10 years
