Head, Programmes (Stanbic Foundation) at Standard Bank Group

Job Description

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

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.

Additional Information

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