Position Summary
This position plays a pivotal role in advancing Visa’s regulatory and policy goals by cultivating strategic relationships with critical stakeholders, including government leaders, policymakers, key opinion influencers, and regulatory authorities across anglophone West Africa—namely Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Oversee and execute core duties encompassing critical operational, strategic, and administrative functions to ensure organizational efficiency and goal attainment. Lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project milestones, foster innovation, and uphold high performance standards. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to optimize workflows, mitigate risks, and enhance productivity. Monitor key performance indicators and generate comprehensive reports to evaluate progress, identify trends, and recommend data-driven improvements. Serve as a liaison between leadership, staff, and external stakeholders to facilitate transparent communication and alignment with business objectives.
Craft and implement a targeted West African Government Affairs strategy, establishing precise objectives, clear timelines, and actionable steps in harmony with Visa’s overarching global policy framework and key regional priorities.
Oversee operational activities encompassing budget management, reporting, and the prompt delivery of superior position papers, policy briefs, analyses, and engagement strategies.
Craft policy initiatives that align with organizational objectives and offer strategic guidance to foster market expansion and innovation.
The role involves tracking and shaping legislation, regulation, and policy developments to safeguard and advance Visa’s strategic interests, consistently advocating for favorable outcomes.
Develop and maintain strong partnerships with governmental entities, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral institutions. Serve as Visa’s representative in high-level discussions and policy forums to influence the evolution of payment regulations.
Improve advocacy strategies, enhance stakeholder engagement, and strengthen regulatory oversight by incorporating industry-leading practices. Streamline existing processes to maximize operational efficiency and amplify overall impact.
Develop and execute initiatives to enhance internal understanding of Government Affairs via comprehensive training sessions, informative briefings, and timely updates.
Demonstrates expertise in strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making, with a proven ability to drive organizational growth and innovation. Exhibits strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills to effectively engage stakeholders and facilitate team success. Proficient in analyzing complex data to identify trends, mitigate risks, and optimize performance. Committed to fostering a culture of accountability, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
Proficient knowledge of the digital payments sector, including its economic significance and broader societal influence.
Skilled at evaluating, interpreting, and proactively forecasting regulatory and policy changes that shape digital payments and fintech environments.
Developed and executed stakeholder relations strategies with measurable success.
Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of Nigeria’s business and political landscapes, including regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, and governance structures.
Possesses a keen understanding of political dynamics and business principles.
Proven ability to generate original ideas and solutions, demonstrating both creativity and innovation in problem-solving approaches.
Proven ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Proven expertise in budget preparation, financial oversight, and strategic resource allocation is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in financial planning, expense tracking, and performance analysis to ensure fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency.
Demonstrates resilience and composure in high-pressure environments, maintaining productivity and focus amidst tight deadlines and demanding circumstances.
A proactive and driven professional, capable of working autonomously and collaboratively within a team, even under minimal oversight.
Exceptional ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment and across various departments is essential.
Proficient in utilizing computer systems and software applications is required, encompassing a strong command of standard office tools, data management, and digital communication platforms to support operational efficiency.
Job Scope
Duties include providing support and coordination to the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs for Western and Central Africa.
Collaborates effectively with colleagues across country, CEMEA hub-level, and global teams, encompassing Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products.
Works in concert with Government Affairs colleagues worldwide to establish and enhance industry-leading practices.
Acts as a key resource for cross-divisional business teams, providing specialized expertise in policy, regulatory matters, and government relations.
The position requires regular travel across English-speaking countries in West Africa.
This role is designed as a hybrid position, with the specific in-office attendance requirements to be determined in consultation with your Hiring Manager.
Qualifications
Senior professional roles require candidates to meet essential criteria such as a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience, typically totaling five or more years. Proficiency in industry-standard software, tools, or methodologies is mandatory, along with strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Candidates should demonstrate prior leadership in project management or cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Additional prerequisites may include certifications, security clearances, or specialized training pertinent to the position. Exceptional organizational skills and the capacity to thrive in fast-paced environments are equally critical.
A minimum of ten years of professional experience in a related field is required, along with a Bachelor’s degree, or at least seven years of experience with an advanced degree such as a Master’s, MBA, JD, or MD, or three years with a PhD.
Preferred qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, along with at least three years of professional experience in a similar role. Familiarity with industry-specific software and tools is required, as is the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, along with a proven track record of meeting deadlines. Experience in a leadership or mentoring capacity is a plus.
Requires a minimum of twelve years of pertinent professional experience coupled with a Bachelor’s degree, nine or more years of experience with an advanced degree, or at least five years of experience if holding a PhD.
A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in fields such as Public Policy, International Relations, Law, or related disciplines is required.
With a minimum of 10 to 12 years of professional experience in government relations, regulatory affairs, or public policy, you will bring a wealth of strategic insight and expertise to this critical role.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
10 years
