Head of Cards & Business Development (Kenyan Diaspora)

SUMMARY:
The Head of Card Banking & Business Development is responsible for overseeing and driving the growth, strategy, and operational success of the card banking division in Kenya. The role encompasses leadership of the card banking unit, while also focusing on business development initiatives that drive customer acquisition, revenue growth, and innovation. The individual will be expected to develop and implement strategies to enhance the bank’s card product portfolio, manage relationships with key stakeholders, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership & Management:
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for the card banking division to drive market share, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
  • Oversee the development of credit, debit, and prepaid card offerings, ensuring alignment with market trends and customer needs.
  • Lead the expansion of the bank's card product portfolio through innovation and digital transformation.
  • Manage the day-to-day operations of the card banking department, ensuring operational efficiency and service excellence.
• Business Development:
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities to expand the card portfolio, including partnerships with merchants, fintech, and payment processors.
  • Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to design and execute targeted campaigns to acquire new card customers.
  • Drive customer loyalty and engagement initiatives to increase card usage, reduce churn, and improve overall customer satisfaction.
• Financial Performance & Budget Management:
  • Monitor and manage the P&L of the card banking division, ensuring revenue targets are met or exceeded.
  • Develop pricing strategies and revenue models to maximize the profitability of card products.
  • Prepare and manage the budget for the card banking unit, ensuring resources are optimally allocated.
• Risk Management & Compliance:
  • Ensure the card banking division adheres to all local regulations, including Central Bank of Kenya guidelines and international card schemes.
  • Work closely with risk management and compliance teams to monitor fraud, credit, and operational risks associated with card transactions.
  • Implement effective controls to mitigate risks and ensure security in card operations.
• Stakeholder Management:
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including card networks (e.g., Visa, Mastercard), payment processors, regulators, and merchant partners.
  • Act as the main point of contact for strategic partners, vendors, and regulators in the card business ecosystem.
  • Represent the bank in industry forums, conferences, and public engagements related to card banking and payments.
• Team Leadership & Development:
  • Lead and mentor a high-performing team within the card banking division.
  • Set performance targets, conduct regular reviews, and develop talent through training and development programs.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and customer-centricity within the team.

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or related field. An MBA or relevant professional qualification is preferred.

• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in card banking, payments, or financial services, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in business development, product management, and driving revenue growth in card banking.
• In-depth knowledge of the Kenyan banking and payments landscape, including regulatory requirements.

• Strong leadership and management capabilities.
• Excellent understanding of card products (credit, debit, prepaid) and their operational mechanics.
• Ability to build and manage relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in managing P&L and budgets.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.