Head of Government Affairs, Central and Western Francophone Africa (CWFA)
Job Overview
Head of Government Affairs, Central West Francophone Africa (CWFA)
Based in Visa’s Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire office, this dynamic position requires a proactive, solution-oriented, articulate, and strategic thinker who can operate and interact at the highest levels of government. The role involves frequent travel within Francophone West and Central Africa.
Position Summary
This role is responsible for managing Visa’s relationships with key government officials, policymakers, public influencers, and regulators in CWFA markets, including Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Cameroon.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement an effective Government Affairs strategy within the region.
Build and maintain stakeholder relationships with governments, businesses, and NGOs at all levels.
Align Government Affairs plans with Visa’s strategic business objectives.
Establish and sustain long-term relationships with governments and external stakeholders.
Monitor the regulatory and policy environment in CWFA countries and intervene as needed to protect Visa’s interests.
Identify opportunities and support business development initiatives.
Manage day-to-day Government Affairs operations and represent Visa at relevant forums.
Optimize achievement of targets and objectives by introducing best practices.
Foster internal relationships and promote understanding of the function within the company.
Key Competencies
Understanding of the digital payments industry and its economic and social impact.
Proven experience in developing and implementing stakeholder relations strategies.
In-depth knowledge of business and political environments in Francophone West and Central Africa.
Strong political and business acumen.
Creative and innovative thinking.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Budgeting and financial management experience.
Ability to work under pressure.
Motivated self-starter, able to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
Strong teamwork and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Computer literacy.
Fluent in French and English
Job Scope
Reports to the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs for Western and Central Africa.
Works closely with country, CEMEA hub-level, and global colleagues, including teams in Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products.
Collaborates with Government Affairs colleagues globally to develop and refine best practices.
Serves as a subject matter expert on policy, regulatory issues, and government relations for cross-divisional business teams.
This is a hybrid position. Expectation of days in office will be confirmed by your Hiring Manager.