Head, Programmes (Stanbic Foundation)

Standard Bank Group is a leading Africa-focused financial services group, and an innovative player on the global stage, that offers a variety of career-enhancing opportunities – plus the chance to work alongside some of the sector’s most talented, motivated professionals. Our clients range from individuals, to businesses of all sizes, high net worth families and large multinational corporates and institutions. We’re passionate about creating growth in Africa. Bringing true, meaningful value to our clients and the communities we serve and creating a real sense of purpose for you.

To provide strategic and operational leadership for the Foundation’s programme portfolio, ensuring the successful design, execution, and scaling of high-impact initiatives that deliver measurable economic and social outcomes.

The role serves as a strategic and thought partner to the Executive Director, supporting the operationalization of the Foundation’s strategy and strengthening the Foundation’s position as a leader in inclusive economic growth and market systems development.

The successful candidate will lead cross-sector partnerships, build scalable delivery models, mobilize resources, strengthen organizational capability, and embed a culture of execution excellence, accountability, and innovation.

The role requires a leader who can move seamlessly between strategy, execution, partnerships, and institutional building.

Qualifications & Experience Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business, Development Studies, Public Policy, Finance, International Development, or a related field.
• Postgraduate qualification (MBA, MPP, MSc, or equivalent) preferred.
• Minimum of 10–12 years’ progressive leadership experience in programmes delivery, market systems development, enterprise development, philanthropy, financial inclusion, or inclusive economic development.
• Proven track record in translating strategy into scalable execution and measurable outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex partnerships, multi-sector programmes, and cross-functional teams.
• Experience in resource mobilization, blended finance, catalytic funding structures, or ecosystem financing approaches is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of governance, risk management, safeguarding, and compliance within complex institutional environments.
• Experience engaging with Boards, senior executives, government stakeholders, and development partners.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Strategic & Systems Leadership
• Programme & Operational Excellence
• Stakeholder & Partnership Management
• Governance & People Leadership
• Collaboration

Technical Competencies:

• Change Management 
• Project Administration Skills
• Project Management 
• Quality Assurance
• Risk Management