Director, Business Development, Account Executive

Visa is a world leader in payments technology, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories, dedicated to uplifting everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid.

At Visa, you'll have the opportunity to create impact at scale — tackling meaningful challenges, growing your skills and seeing your contributions impact lives around the world. Join Visa and do work that matters — to you, to your community, and to the world.

Progress starts with you.

Team Summary

The South Africa team is a dynamic group of innovators and problem-solvers committed to accelerating the digitization of payments and driving financial inclusion. We partner with banks, fintech's, merchants, and government entities to shape the future of commerce in one of Africa’s most vibrant markets.

If you are passionate about payments, have deep industry expertise, and thrive in building strategic partnerships that deliver growth, this role is for you.

What a Director, Business Development does at Visa:

• Lead Strategic Growth: Own and grow Visa’s business with key clients in South Africa, driving revenue and market share through strong relationship management and consultative selling.
• Shape Market Strategy: Develop and execute short- and long-term plans aligned with Visa’s South Africa strategy to accelerate digital payments adoption.
• Drive Innovation: Champion Visa’s new payment technologies and solutions, articulating their commercial value to clients and enabling them to win in an evolving ecosystem.
• Identify Opportunities: Analyze client portfolios and market trends to uncover new business opportunities, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver tailored solutions.
• Influence Industry Direction: Stay ahead of local and global payment trends, advising clients on best practices and positioning Visa as a trusted partner.
• Mentor and Inspire: Foster a high-performance culture within the team, coaching and developing talent to achieve ambitious goals.

Why this role matters

South Africa is a critical market for Visa in Sub-Saharan Africa, with immense potential for digital transformation. This role is pivotal in strengthening Visa’s position as the leading payments partner, driving financial inclusion, and shaping the future of commerce in the region.

This is a hybrid position. Expectation of days in the office will be confirmed by your Hiring Manager. 

Basic Qualifications:

10 or more years of work experience with a Bachelor’s Degree or at least 8 years of work experience with an Advanced Degree (e.g. Masters/ MBA/JD/MD) or at least 3 years of work experience with a PhD

Preferred Qualifications:

12 or more years of work experience with a Bachelor’s Degree or 8-10 years of experience with an Advanced Degree (e.g. Masters, MBA, JD, MD) or 6+ years of work experience with a PhD

15 or more years of experience with a Bachelor’s Degree or 12 years of experience with an Advanced Degree (e.g. Masters, MBA, JD, or MD), PhD with 9+ years of experience

What you will need:

12+ years of proven experience in business development, sales, or relationship management within payments, financial services, or banking.

Strong track record of delivering revenue growth and managing strategic client relationships.

Exceptional leadership skills with experience managing teams in a matrixed organization.

Ability to navigate complex environments, influence senior stakeholders, and lead change.

Deep understanding of South Africa’s payments landscape, regulatory environment, and emerging trends.

Strong commercial acumen and ability to execute

What will also help:

Digital curiosity and a passion for innovation.

Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

Ability to thrive in ambiguous, fast-paced environments.

Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and collaboration.

Visa is an EEO Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Visa will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with EEOC guidelines and applicable local law.