Head, Technical and Vocational Skills Development (TVSD) Initiatives at Mastercard Foundation

WAYS YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

• Collaborate with the heads of Secondary Education units (Girls' Education, Access, and Success) as part of the Secondary Education Leadership team to shape and evolve program strategy.
• Oversee the design and implementation of Technical and Vocational Skills Development (TVSD) programs across the continent, ensuring high-quality delivery and progress tracking.
• Set portfolio goals and work with the Impact Team to monitor and achieve program objectives.
• Coordinate with Mastercard Foundation Country Program teams on local Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and skills development initiatives.
• Oversee learning organizations providing technical support on Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) at the continental level.
• Develop and manage consultancies.
• Share learning and collaborate with counterparts across the Education and Transitions team.
• Provide guidance and technical assistance to the Secondary Education team on TVSD.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration in program partnerships with a focus on impact.
• Promote thought leadership on secondary-level TVSD in partnership with Program Communications and Policy teams.
• Ensure data and learning are captured, reported, and integrated into program design and implementation.
• Build relationships with ecosystem actors and education stakeholders, representing the Foundation at workshops, conferences, and education forums.
• Track team operations expenses and support budget forecasting with Program Finance teams.
• Facilitate exchange and learning across the TVSD partner network, including organizing convenings and virtual meetings.
• Recruit talent, lead colleagues effectively, and ensure alignment with Foundation values while fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

WHO YOU ARE

• A master’s degree in education, economic development, or a related social sciences field is required, along with relevant professional qualifications in program management (an added advantage).
• Membership in relevant professional bodies and networks is advantageous.
• Minimum of twelve (12) years of experience, including at least five (5) years in a supervisory role, with a proven track record of building and managing high-performing teams in fast-paced, multi-cultural environments.
• Strong experience in education, particularly in technical and vocational skills development, secondary and/or higher education, and managing portfolios across multiple countries.
• Extensive experience engaging with senior leadership in development partners, education organizations, high-level government representatives, and the private sector.
• Excellent leadership and supervisory skills, especially in managing multi-location and virtual teams.
• Experience working across cultures and geographies, with a requirement of living and working in Africa.
• Strong communication and analytical skills, with the ability to articulate information across diverse cultures and think strategically to contribute to the Foundation’s development.
• Proficiency in English is required; French is a significant asset.
• Deep knowledge of key issues, trends, and challenges in skills development in Africa.
• Willingness and ability to travel.
• Demonstrate commitment to the Mastercard Foundation values.