Job Description

:A global payments leader focused on helping some of the best companies in the world expand in emerging countries islooking to add an experienced Country Manager in South Africa to its team. As both a payments processor and a merchant of record where they operate, this company makes it simple and risk-free for their client partners to make inroads into the worlds fastest-growing, emerging markets.Position overview:Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced Country Manager to lead their operations and drive business growth in South Africa. As the Country Manager, you will be responsible for formulating and executing the company's strategy in South Africa, building strategic partnerships, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and fostering a high-performance team. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong operational expertise, exceptional relationship management skills, and a deep understanding of the South African market.Your daily adventures include:

• Collaborate with the senior leadership team to develop and implement the country strategy, aligning it with the overall organisational goals

• Create and execute the operational strategy for South Africa, including the establishment of infrastructure required to support business growth

• Continuously improve operational capabilities, optimise pay-in/ pay-out methods, and enhance processes to drive efficiency and enhance conversion rates

• Identify and cultivate strategic relationships with partners, acquirers, payment processors, banks, and other stakeholders to unlock growth opportunities

• Lead negotiations and execute commercial partnerships and agreements, ensuring mutually beneficial terms and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

• Collaborate with internal teams, including expansion, product, technology, legal, compliance and commercial teams, to align on operational, product, and technology roadmaps. Facilitate seamless integration of partnerships and optimise processes for maximum synergies

• Analyse performance metrics, market trends, and customer insights to optimise business operations and conversion rates

• Utilise data-driven strategies to enhance performance, identify areas for improvement, and drive operational excellence

• Work closely with the legal and compliance team to ensure adherence to local laws, legislation, and regulations

• Stay informed about regulatory changes, maintain compliance, and engage with regulators when necessary

• Maintain a strong personal network, actively participate in professional organizations, and attend conferences, and industry events to enhance the company's brand visibility

• Engage with local legal experts, accountants, tax professionals, and regulators to ensure smooth operations and compliance with local regulations. Stay updated on local market dynamics, and regulatory changes, and leverage local knowledge to drive business success and operational excellence.

• Adaptability to thrive in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.

• Self-starting attitude with a willingness to collaborate across global teams and time zones.

• Proven expertise in South African payments or financial systems

• Strong negotiation skills for optimising contracts and agreements.

• Extensive network within the South African market's payment ecosystem

• Ability to take calculated risks based on strategic insights.

• Leadership capabilities to drive projects and foster cross-functional teamwork.

• Strategic vision with a focus on operations and business development

• Deep understanding of South African market dynamics and regulatory landscape

• Track record of cultivating strategic partnerships and driving operational excellence

• Excellent communication and relationship management skills

• Analytical mindset to translate data into actionable strategies.

• Proficiency in team management and motivation

• Comprehensive knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements

• Positive attitude and inquisitive nature

• Technical proficiency as a bonus

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