Position Summary
This position is tasked with advancing Visa’s regulatory and policy goals by cultivating strategic relationships with influential government representatives, policymakers, public figures, and regulatory authorities across anglophone West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Oversee and execute a comprehensive range of duties, including strategic planning, team leadership, and project management to ensure organizational objectives are met. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance efficiency, productivity, and compliance with industry standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for innovation, process improvement, and cost reduction. Monitor performance metrics, analyze data trends, and prepare detailed reports to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement. Serve as a key liaison between senior management and operational staff, facilitating clear communication and alignment of goals. Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, safety protocols, and ethical guidelines while maintaining a high standard of accountability and professionalism. Manage stakeholder relationships, negotiate contracts, and oversee vendor partnerships to optimize resource allocation and operational effectiveness.
Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for West African Government Affairs, establishing clear objectives, structured timelines, and actionable steps that align with Visa’s overarching global policy framework and regional strategic priorities.
Oversee daily operations, with a focus on budget management, reporting, and the prompt delivery of meticulously prepared position papers, policy briefs, analyses, and engagement strategies, ensuring adherence to the highest quality standards.
Develop and synchronize policy strategies in accordance with organizational objectives to foster market expansion and encourage innovative advancements.
Monitor and shape legislation, regulation, and policy to protect and promote Visa’s interests, advocating for advantageous outcomes.
Develop and maintain strong partnerships with governmental organizations, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral entities. Serve as a key representative for Visa in high-level strategic discussions to influence and shape payment policy frameworks.
Improve advocacy initiatives, foster stakeholder relationships, and maintain vigilant oversight of regulatory developments to ensure alignment with current standards. Additionally, streamline existing workflows to maximize effectiveness and measurable outcomes.
Facilitate internal understanding of Government Affairs by delivering training sessions, conducting briefings, and providing timely updates.
Demonstrates proficiency in strategic planning, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving, with a keen ability to drive innovation and operational excellence. Exhibits exceptional communication and collaboration skills, fostering strong relationships across diverse teams and stakeholders. Proven track record in project management, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet deadlines and deliver measurable results. Strong leadership qualities, inspiring and motivating teams to achieve high performance and continuous improvement. Adept at data-driven decision-making, leveraging insights to optimize processes and enhance productivity. Commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and compliance with organizational policies and industry regulations.
Possesses a solid grasp of the digital payments sector along with its broader economic and societal implications.
Proven expertise in analyzing, interpreting, and forecasting regulatory and policy developments that influence digital payments and fintech environments.
Demonstrated success in designing and executing stakeholder engagement initiatives.
Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of Nigeria’s business and political landscapes.
Demonstrates exceptional insight into political dynamics and business strategies.
Proactive and imaginative problem-solving abilities are essential for this role.
Comprehensive proficiency in both verbal and written communication is required.
Accomplished professionals with a strong background in financial oversight and strategic budget planning are sought after for this role. Candidates should possess demonstrated expertise in managing financial resources, developing comprehensive budgets, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. A proven track record in financial analysis, forecasting, and resource allocation is essential to meet the demands of this position.
Thrives in high-pressure environments while maintaining composure and productivity. Demonstrates resilience and adaptability when faced with tight deadlines or demanding circumstances. Successfully balances competing priorities without compromising quality or efficiency.
A proactive and driven individual who thrives in both independent and collaborative settings, capable of delivering results with limited oversight.
Exceptional ability to work effectively within a team and collaborate seamlessly across diverse functional areas.
Computer literacy is essential, with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite—including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint—required. Familiarity with database management systems, email platforms, and internet research tools is also necessary. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to navigate various software applications efficiently and troubleshoot basic technical issues independently.
Job Scope
The position involves reporting directly to the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs for Western and Central Africa.
Collaborates effectively 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 with global Government Affairs colleagues to establish and enhance best practices collaboratively.
As a subject-matter expert, you will provide specialized guidance on policy matters, regulatory frameworks, and government relations to cross-divisional business teams.
Frequent domestic and regional travel throughout English-speaking West Africa is a core component of this position.
This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, with specific in-office days to be determined in consultation with your Hiring Manager.
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is required. Minimum of three years of professional experience in software development, preferably with expertise in [specific technologies or frameworks]. Strong proficiency in [programming languages, e.g., Python, Java, or C++] is essential. Experience with [relevant tools, databases, or methodologies, e.g., SQL, Agile, or cloud platforms] is highly desirable. Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment are critical. Familiarity with [industry-specific standards, e.g., cybersecurity best practices or DevOps practices] is a plus.
Seeking candidates who possess foundational qualifications essential for success in this role. Applicants must meet specific prerequisites as outlined below.
We seek candidates with a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience and a Bachelor’s degree, or alternatively, at least 7 years of experience alongside an advanced degree such as a Master’s, MBA, JD, or MD. Applicants holding a PhD must demonstrate a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience.
Preferred qualifications include a minimum of three years of relevant experience in a similar role, along with a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is required, and familiarity with project management methodologies is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should possess strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in team settings. Prior experience in a leadership or mentoring capacity is a plus.
A minimum of 12 years of pertinent professional experience is required for candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree, while those with an advanced degree need at least 9 years, or 5 years for those possessing a PhD.
A relevant bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in Public Policy, International Relations, Law, or a closely related discipline is required.
A minimum of 10 to 12 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
