MD, Micro-Finance Bank

Our client is a leading conglomerate operating in the Fintech, Oil and Gas, Technology, and Media, renowned for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth. As part of its strategic diversification and expansion into financial services, the company established a new Microfinance Bank to support financial inclusion, empower SMEs, and provide accessible financial solutions to underserved communities. To spearhead this bold new venture, the company seeks a visionary and strategic Managing Director to lead the bank from inception to sustainable growth.

Job Summary:

The Managing Director (MD) will provide strategic leadership, vision, and direction to the Microfinance Bank. This role entails overseeing all operations, ensuring financial sustainability, regulatory compliance, innovation in service delivery, and alignment with the Bank’s mission of fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment. The ideal candidate is a transformational leader with strong financial acumen, deep industry knowledge, and a track record of successfully leading and scaling financial institutions.

Strategic Leadership

1. Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve the bank’s mission and growth targets.
2. Drive innovation in financial inclusion and community-focused banking models.
3. Represent the bank in regulatory, investor, and stakeholder engagements.

Operational Oversight

1. Oversee daily operations to ensure efficiency, profitability, and alignment with strategic objectives
2. Ensure alignment of all business units with strategic goals and KPIs.
3. Monitor performance metrics, budgets, and resource allocation.

Financial Management

1. Ensure profitability, liquidity, and solvency of the bank.
2. Develop and manage budgets, financial reports, and cost-control measures.
3. Supervise treasury, credit, and investment activities.
4. Lead fundraising and capital acquisition efforts to support the bank’s expansion and sustainability.
5. Ensure financial stability and growth by optimizing revenue streams and managing costs.
6. Present regular financial reports and performance metrics to the Board of Directors.

Risk & Compliance

1. Establish and maintain a strong internal control and compliance environment.
2. Implement risk management frameworks to safeguard the bank’s assets and reputation
3. Ensure full adherence to Central Bank regulations and other legal frameworks.
4. Implement effective internal controls and audit mechanisms to mitigate risks
5. Champion a culture of ethical banking and transparency.
6. Maintain compliance with all local, national, and international banking regulations.
7. Establish and uphold corporate governance standards across the organization.

Team & Culture

1. Lead, inspire, mentor, and manage a high-performing senior team and staff.
2. Promote a performance-driven, inclusive, and customer-centric culture.
3. Oversee talent development and succession planning.
4. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and commitment to the bank's social mission.

Innovation Management

1. Drive innovation in product and service offerings to meet the evolving needs of target customers.
2. Drive adoption of technology solutions to streamline operations and enhance customer experience.

Business Development

1. Identify and develop opportunities for market expansion and product innovation.
2. Cultivate partnerships with fintechs, government programs, and NGOs for financial inclusion.
3. Drive customer acquisition and retention strategies.

Stakeholders Management

1. Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including clients, regulatory authorities, shareholders, and development partners.
2. Lead and leverage stakeholders' partnership opportunities that aligns with business goals and aspirations.

Key Requirements

1. Bachelor’s degree in finance, Banking, Economics, Business Administration, or related field.
2. Master’s degree (e.g., MBA) and/or professional certification (e.g., ACIB, ACCA, CFA) is a strong advantage.
3. Minimum of 15 years’ experience in the financial services sector, with at least 8 years in executive leadership roles within a microfinance bank, commercial bank, or development finance institution.
4. Demonstrated success in strategic planning, operations management, and financial performance.
5. Proven track record of leading innovation and driving financial inclusion initiatives.
6. Strong stakeholder engagement, regulatory liaison, and fundraising experience
7. Proven track record in senior management within banking, microfinance, or financial services.
8. Strong knowledge of microfinance principles, lending methodologies, and financial inclusion strategies.
9. Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and risk management in the financial sector.
10. Experience with digital financial services or fintech solutions is a plus
11. Female is required for diversity balancing.

Core Competencies

1. Strategic Thinking & Visionary Leadership
2. Financial Acumen & Portfolio Management
3. Digital & Inclusive Finance Expertise
4. Strong Regulatory & Risk Management Understanding
5. Change Management & Innovation
6. Excellent Communication, Negotiation & Influencing Skills
7. Ethical Leadership & Governance