A leading commercial bank in Kenya are looking for a highly experienced and strategic Head of Merchant Acquiring. The Head of Acquiring will lead the acquiring business division, driving the strategic direction, growth, and profitability of the acquiring services. This role requires a dynamic leader with extensive experience in the payments industry, strong business acumen, and the ability to foster relationships with key stakeholders.

Job Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute the strategic plan for the acquiring business, ensuring alignment with the bank’s overall  objectives.
• Business Development: Identify and capitalize on new business opportunities, partnerships, and markets to expand the acquiring  network.
• Operational Management: Oversee the daily operations of the acquiring business, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and exceptional service  delivery.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, promoting a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Financial Oversight: Manage the financial performance of the acquiring business, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks associated with acquiring operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and  internal policies.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with merchants, partners, and regulatory bodies.
• Attract new merchants for the Bank in line with the Bank’s Strategy and plans.
• Establish key relationships and provide best services to merchant customers.
• Strengthen merchant relationships in order to secure larger business.
• Contribute in increasing Acquiring market share.
• Analyze, MIS reports and monitor daily performance.
• Conduct Market research to identify competitive information on new developments in the market.
• Handle the acquiring business through all channels; POS, e-commerce and mobile.

Other Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field. MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in the payments or banking industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within  Merchant Acquiring or related areas.
• Ability to represent the bank in a professional manner towards merchants.
• Ability to propose, negotiate and close deals in attracting new merchants or expanding existing relationships.
• Ability to manage a team and coordinate with colleagues to achieve team success.
• Keeps abreast of all the recent developments in the Acquiring business across the world.
• Highly developed marketing & organizational skills with a customer-friendly attitude.