Regional Head, Global Transaction Banking (CESA Anglophone) at Ecobank Kenya

JOB CONTEXT

• GTB is a competitive and rapidly evolving space shaped by digital disruption, regulatory changes and growing client demand for real‑time, cross‑border solutions. The Regional Head of GTB operates across multiple countries and currencies, managing a broad suite of products including cash management, trade finance, supply chain finance and merchant acquiring. The role requires deep collaboration with technology, operations, risk and client coverage teams to deliver seamless client experiences. Strong understanding of local and international regulations (e.g., AML, sanctions) and emerging trends in payments and trade are essential. The incumbent must drive innovation, adapt to fintech competition and ensure the bank’s platforms remain secure, compliant and scalable.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Business and Financial performance

• Develop and execute the regional GTB strategy to grow fee income, transaction volumes and product penetration across cash management, trade finance and payments.
• Set financial and non‑financial targets, monitor performance against budgets and implement actions to close gaps.
• Drive pricing strategies, product profitability analysis and cross‑sell initiatives to optimise revenue and return on capital.
• Collaborate with corporate banking teams to originate transaction banking mandates and integrate GTB solutions in client proposals.
• Manage the GTB pipeline and product portfolio, ensuring a balanced mix of traditional and innovative solutions aligned with market needs.

Customer Excellence

• Ensure delivery of superior service quality with high reliability, speed and accuracy across all transaction banking products.
• Lead client engagement activities including product presentations, workshops and solution design sessions.
• Actively solicit client feedback, monitor customer satisfaction and implement service improvements.
• Champion a client‑centric culture within GTB and instil awareness of client needs across operations and technology partners.
• Develop value propositions tailored to industry segments and evolving client expectations (e.g., real‑time payments, supply chain financing).

Leadership and people management

• Build and lead a high‑performing GTB team including product managers, sales specialists and implementation managers.
• Provide coaching, mentorship and development opportunities to enhance technical and leadership skills.
• Foster collaboration between GTB, client coverage, technology and operations to ensure seamless delivery.
• Set clear objectives, measure performance and manage rewards in line with the bank’s policies.
• Promote innovation, diversity and ethical conduct within the team.

Process, control and operational performance

• Ensure robust operational processes, risk management and controls across product origination, client onboarding and transaction execution.
• Monitor regulatory requirements related to trade sanctions, AML/KYC, import/export rules and ensure full compliance.
• Work with operations and technology to streamline processes, reduce turnaround times and minimise error rates.
• Oversee product documentation, policies and procedures, updating them to reflect regulatory or market changes.
• Lead the implementation of new systems and platforms that enhance client experience and internal efficiency.

Strategic initiatives

• Drive digital transformation initiatives including electronic platforms, API banking, virtual accounts and e‑invoicing.
• Identify partnership opportunities with fintechs, payment networks and trade platforms to extend service offerings.
• Develop new products such as supply chain finance, receivables financing and sustainability‑linked trade solutions.
• Engage regulators, industry bodies and professional associations to shape market infrastructure and standards.
• Align GTB strategy with the bank’s ESG agenda and support clients in their sustainability journeys.

KEY SUCCESS FACTORS

• Growth in transaction volumes, fee income and wallet share.
• High client satisfaction scores and successful delivery of complex solutions.
• Operational metrics such as reduced error rates, improved turnaround times and high STP rates.
• Compliance with regulatory requirements and absence of sanctions or penalties.
• Strong GTB team capability and retention.
• Innovation pipeline delivering new products and digital enhancements.

JOB PROFILE
Experience & Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business or related field; MBA or professional qualification in trade finance or treasury management is an advantage.
• 10–15 years’ experience in transaction banking, cash management or trade finance with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• In‑depth understanding of payments, cash management, trade and supply chain finance products.
• Proven ability to drive revenue growth and manage P&L.
• Knowledge of local and international regulatory requirements (AML, sanctions, trade regulations).
• Experience in digital transformation and product innovation.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work across multiple geographies.