Strategy and Business Development Lead

Position: Strategy and Business Development Lead
Reports to: Managing Director/CEO
Industry: Investment
Location: Lagos State, Nigeria
Job Type: Full-Time (On-site)
Budget: Open to Negotiation

As a Strategy and Business Development Lead, you will be responsible for driving the strategic growth and expansion of the business, with a strong emphasis on international partnerships and alignment with global development frameworks. This position entails developing and implementing strategic initiatives, identifying new business opportunities, fostering partnerships with international donors and development finance institutions, and enhancing the bank's market presence. The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader with a deep understanding of the microfinance sector, a strong business acumen, a passion for financial inclusion, and experience in navigating international funding landscapes.
1. Strategic Planning and Execution:
Develop and implement the bank’s strategic plan, aligning with its mission, vision, and international best practices.
Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify growth opportunities and potential threats, including those related to international funding and partnerships.
Formulate and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the progress of strategic initiatives and alignment with international frameworks.
Provide strategic insights and recommendations to the management team and the Board of Directors, considering global trends and funding opportunities.
Drive the development of new products and services that align with national and international development goals.
2. Business Development and Partnerships (with International Focus):
Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including strategic partnerships with international donors, development finance institutions (DFIs), and funding mechanisms.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including international partners, clients, and regulatory bodies.
Lead the development and execution of business development strategies to expand the bank’s client base and market share, leveraging international funding and resources.
Represent the organization at international industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities.
Explore and develop digital financial services and innovative delivery channels, with a focus on attracting international investment.
Strategic Positioning and Alignment:
Drive alignment with national and international frameworks on gender, sustainability, inclusion, and other relevant platforms (e.g., SDGs, Paris Agreement).
Develop and implement strategies to position the organization as a leader in sustainable and inclusive microfinance.
Identify and leverage funding opportunities related to gender equality, climate action, and social impact.
3. Market Analysis and Product Innovation:
Analyze market trends, customer needs, and competitive landscape, including international best practices, to identify opportunities for product and service innovation.
Lead the development and launch of new microfinance products and services tailored to the needs of low-income individuals and SMEs, with consideration for international funding criteria.
Evaluate the performance of existing products and services and recommend improvements, aligning with international standards.
Conduct feasibility studies and business case development for new ventures, including those involving international partnerships.
4. Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
Monitor and evaluate the performance of business development initiatives and strategic plans, including those related to international partnerships and funding.
Prepare regular reports on key performance indicators and strategic progress for the management team and the Board of Directors, with specific focus on international funding and impact.
Analyze financial data and market trends to identify areas for improvement and growth, including the impact of international investments.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, internal policies, and international funding guidelines.
5. Team Leadership and Collaboration:
Lead and mentor the business development team, fostering a culture of innovation, high performance, and international collaboration.
Collaborate with other departments, including operations, credit, and finance, to ensure seamless execution of strategic initiatives and international partnerships.
Develop and maintain strong internal and external communication channels, including those with international partners.
Participate in the development and implementation of training programs for staff, focusing on international best practices and funding requirements.

Required Qualifications & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, International Development, or a related field. An MBA or relevant master’s degree is highly desirable.
Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in strategy and business development, preferably in the microfinance or financial services sector, with demonstrated experience in securing international funding and partnerships.
Proven track record of developing and implementing successful strategic initiatives, including those involving international stakeholders.
Strong understanding of the Nigerian microfinance landscape and the challenges faced by low-income individuals and SMEs, as well as international development frameworks.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with a global perspective.
Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse international audiences.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, in a multicultural environment.
Strong understanding of digital financial services, and how to apply them to the microfinance sector, including those funded by international donors.
Knowledge of regulatory compliance within the Nigerian financial sector and international funding guidelines.
Passion for financial inclusion and poverty alleviation, with a global vision.
Strong ethical values and integrity, aligned with international standards.
Results-oriented and proactive, with a focus on achieving sustainable impact.
Adaptable and resilient, with the ability to navigate complex international environments.
Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with a global mindset.