Lead, Market Systems Development  Lagos

Mastercard Foundation is a global foundation based across four hubs in Kigali, Rwanda, Nairobi, Kenya, Accra, Ghana and Toronto, Canada. Our programs promote financial inclusion and advance education and learning in Africa, primarily for young people, and in Canada for Indigenous youth. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. From inception, the Foundation was designed to be a separate entity and independent from Mastercard. Our policies, operations, and funding decisions are made by our President and Board of Directors.

The Foundation believes that youth employment is key to unlocking prosperity, both for youth and their societies. Enabling young women and men from disadvantaged communities to secure dignified and fulfilling work will ensure inclusive development and economic growth in Africa. We are  recruiting to fill the position below:

 Job Title: Lead, Market Systems Development

Job requisition ID: JR-0000000750

Location: Lagos, Nigeria The Opportunity

Reporting to the Head, Entrepreneurship Development, the Lead, Market Systems Development plays a crucial role in orchestrating and delivering substantial program initiatives, using leadership skills to unite diverse stakeholders towards impactful outcomes. The role leverages strategic influence and collaboration without direct authority, requiring skilled negotiation, persuasion, and innovative problem-solving. It also requires proficiency in programming, program design, and implementation to ensure that projects align with strategic objectives and are delivered efficiently and effectively.

Way You Can Contribute

Lead the conceptualization and design of innovative development programs, applying a deep understanding of market systems and stakeholder needs to create scalable and sustainable solutions. Use rigorous data analysis and sector insights to align program designs with local and international development objectives and enable transformative impact. Strategically design, implement, and evaluate large-scale development programs, aligning governmental bodies, NGOs, and private sector partners around common goals through influence and consensus-building. Use persuasive communication and strategic thinking to foster collaboration and oversee planning, monitoring, and stakeholder coordination, ensuring objectives are achieved on time, within budget, and for maximum impact.

Build and maintain robust relationships with all program stakeholders. Employ expert negotiation skills to resolve conflicts, secure necessary resources, and strengthen program effectiveness. Manage stakeholders and build effective partnerships through influence, persuasion, and collaboration without direct authority.

Strengthen the capabilities of partner organizations through systematic coaching, training, and technical assistance. Facilitate the exchange of knowledge and skills to build the consortium’s overall capability and resilience.

Implement rigorous methods for tracking, evaluating, and reporting on program progress and outcomes. Use data-driven insights to guide strategic adjustments and promote continuous improvement.

Represent the Foundation prominently at public forums, conferences, workshops, and other stakeholder engagements. Communicate program benefits effectively and advocate for supportive policies and further investment.

Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, Business Administration, or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred. Minimum of 12 years of experience leading and managing large-scale development programs, preferably in diverse and dynamic settings. Technical knowledge, or access to relevant expertise, in market systems, resilience concepts, private sector development, and sustainable development in fragile socioeconomic ecosystems. Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholders and build partnerships without direct authority. Strong leadership skills, with the capacity to influence, persuade, and negotiate effectively. Proven expertise in program management, program design and implementation, strategic planning, and organizational dynamics. Strong analytical skills and demonstrated ability to apply systems thinking to complex development challenges. Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels, including senior government and business leaders. Proactive, driven, and able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team. High degree of professionalism and integrity, aligned with the Foundation’s values and commitment to quality. Ability to navigate complex environments, promote innovative practices, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Experience in capacity building, technical assistance, and stakeholder engagement. Fluency in English; proficiency in additional languages is an advantage.

26th October, 2026. How to Apply

Click Apply Now button to apply