Job Recruitment at the Mastercard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work.  It is one of the largest, private foundations in the world with a mission to advance learning and promote financial inclusion to create an inclusive and equitable world. The Foundation was created by Mastercard in 2006 as an independent organization with its own Board of Directors and management.

We are recruiting to fill the position of:

Job Title: Partner, Scholars Program Communications

Location: Nigeria

The Work at the Foundation

• We have entered a very exciting time at the Foundation as we scale up our operations across Africa to realize our Young Africa Works strategy. Our role at the Mastercard Foundation is to be a catalyst. Our Young Africa Works strategy focuses on working with others to spur systemic change so young people have the opportunity to find work that is dignified and fulfilling.
• The Foundation has opened offices in Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Uganda, building a broader leadership presence in Africa to develop specific strategies that support youth employment.  Within a country, we work with governments, the private sector, educators and other funders to improve the quality of education and vocational training, prepare young people for the work force, expand access to financial services for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and connect job seekers to dignified and fulfilling work.
• We are ambitious and driven. Our values transcend and rise above everything else as our guide. We encourage you to bring your bold ideas, curiosity, and expertise to your work. We laugh at ourselves and with each other. We are a team. Our journey together makes our impact even more meaningful.

The Opportunity

• As the Partner, Scholars Program Communications you will work as an integral part of Program Communications team working closely with the Scholars Program to ensure that communications efforts are integrated and aligned with program objectives as the seek to expand the Scholars Program, to support transitions to work and to expand the Baobab platform. This position will report to the Lead, Scholars Program Communications.
• The successful candidate will be based in one of our country offices in Africa (Uganda, Rwanda, Nigeria or Ghana).

Ways You Can Contribute

• Work collaboratively with the Program Communications colleagues to ensure consistency of messaging and integration of activities and content.
• Act as a representative and advocate for the Scholars Program, clearly and confidently presenting the Program to the general public, potential scholars, civil society audiences etc.
• Facilitate effective relationships, and dialogues with strategic partners.
• Support the Head, Program Communications in delivery of the unit’s strategic priorities under the direction of the Lead, Scholars Program Communications
• Travel within the region to support/mentor and/or to carry out the implementation of communication and outreach activities with strategic partners as required.
• Liaise with assigned partners ensuring alignment with Program and Foundation branding.
• Development of the alumni network and expansion of the Baobab platform.
• Work with Scholars Program team and Youth Engagement team to plan and execute SMART cross-platform (digital, social, and Baobab platform) content and campaigns.
• Work with the Youth Engagement team and alumni to execute a communications strategy that contributes to and supports the goals of the alumni network expanded Baobab platform.
• Ensure communications channels are used effectively, campaigns are measured, and learning/best practices are identified and shared with communications colleagues.
• Amplify the voices of Mastercard Foundation Alumni, encouraging and enabling first-person story-telling.
• Position Mastercard Foundation Alumni as transformative leaders driving change in their communities and across the content.
• Develop and execute media strategies for programs and activities related to the alumni networks.
• Ensure partner program materials (i.e. social media, brochures, digital properties, and other content) are aligned to brand guidelines and messaging.
• With the Lead, Scholars Program Communications, provide support to the Head of Program Communications on emerging crisis communication needs.
• Work collaboratively with the Program Communications colleagues to ensure consistency of messaging and integration of activities and content.
• Other duties as assigned.

Who You Are

• You have demonstrated experience with traditional and social media.
• You have experience working and convening young people.
• Ability to manage several projects simultaneously and re-prioritize as needed.
• Possess a sense of urgency; self-motivated and detail-oriented.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative relationships.
• Proactive approach in resolving problems and issues.
• 5+ years’ experience as a communications professional.
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or related field.
• Possess, sensitivity with different cultures, and integrity that exemplify the Foundation’s values.
• You have a commitment to Mastercard Foundation’s values and vision.
• French language and/or local language skills are an asset.

Application Closing Date
24th June, 2021.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Title: Head of Policy and Thought Leadership

Location: Nigeria

The Work at the Foundation

• We have entered a very exciting time at the Foundation as we scale up our operations across Africa to realize our Young Africa Works strategy. Our role at the Mastercard Foundation is to be a catalyst. Our Young Africa Works strategy focuses on working with others to spur systemic change so young people have the opportunity to find work that is dignified and fulfilling.
• The Foundation has opened offices in Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Uganda, building a broader leadership presence in Africa to develop specific strategies that support youth employment. Within a country, we work with governments, the private sector, educators and other funders to improve the quality of education and vocational training, prepare young people for the work force, expand access to financial services for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and connect job seekers to dignified and fulfilling work.
• We are ambitious and driven. Our values transcend and rise above everything else as our guide. We encourage you to bring your bold ideas, curiosity, and expertise to your work. We laugh at ourselves and with each other. We are a team. Our journey together makes our impact even more meaningful.

The Opportunity

• Reporting to the Head of Public Affairs and Communications, this role will develop and implement the Policy and Thought Leadership strategy to advance Young Africa Works and EleV in the countries in which the Foundation works.
• This position will also oversee editorial, speaking, and content responsibilities for the executive team and senior subject matter experts.
• This individual will leverage the Foundation’s resources, including research, impact, and programming to highlight staff voices and proprietary research; support the growth of knowledge management; and identify opportunities to promote the Foundation’s messaging as a thought leader through its work and impact in Africa.
• The Head of Policy and Thought Leadership will build productive and collaborative relationships with key stakeholders (i.e. Foundation executives, country leaders, government and private sector).

Ways You Can Contribute

• Develop and collaborate with key departments and functional teams to implement Foundation thought leadership strategy.
• Strengthen Foundation’s position as thought leader in the youth employment sector in Africa by developing policy objectives and products (briefs, papers, key messages, etc.) based on learning and insight from Young Africa Works.
• Provide strategic counsel to the President & CEO and senior leadership within the organization.
• Collaborate across functions and departments to ensure campaigns and communications are appropriately aligned and positioned.
• Write senior executive speeches, op-ed pieces, letters to the editor, etc., and develop content (policy papers, research briefs, etc.) in support of Foundation’s policy work, research, and other organizational priorities.
• Equip Foundation executives and country teams, as well as third-party spokespersons to advance strategy.
• Collaborate with functional teams to support content curation for the Young Africa Works Summit and signature events. This includes development of themes and identification of speakers.
• Support content development for Foundation event programming (e.g. Mastercard Foundation Baobab Summit, local workshops, etc.)
• Identify and map internal and external stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with key opinion leaders and strategic partners.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Build, coach, mentor, a Policy and Thought Leadership team.
• Other duties as required by business needs.

Who You Are
Pivotal Experience & Expertise:

• Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in Journalism or Communications, Law or Policy.
• At least 15 – 20 years writing/editing and project management; experience with public policy; and experience in working closely with executives.
• Experience developing and implementing communications strategies.
• Experience in managing, leading, and coaching staff.
• Experience in rhetorical research, fact-checking, analysis, and content development.

Leadership Capabilities:

• Innovative and entrepreneurial – can formulate and develop new or creative approaches to problems and inspires others on the team to do so as well. Able to work independently and proactively with a desire to seize opportunities.
• Flexible and open – must be comfortable with ambiguity, be receptive to new ideas, and is also willing to change when presented with best options.
• Relationship Builder – ability to build relationships throughout all levels of the Foundation, strong interpersonal and team skills. Comfortable working with individuals with diverse communications styles.
• Collaborative – commitment to team, stakeholder orientation; comfort working with all staff levels and receptive to feedback. Strong interpersonal and team skills.
• Results driven – motivated by a high sense of performance excellence and urgency. Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with a “hands-on” approach. Has an appreciation for the importance of results and measurement.
• Organizational skills – outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced, fluid environment.
• Intellectually curious – ability to think creatively to generate original content and strategies. Strong listening skills and is open and responsive to feedback.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills – ability to articulate information to a variety of constituents across cultures.
• Integrity – Exhibits integrity and the highest ethical standards through consistent behaviour.
• Professional maturity, sensitivity with different cultures, and impeccable integrity that exemplify the Foundation’s values.
• French language skills would be an asset.
• May require international travel up to 10% of the time.

Application Closing Date
18th June, 2021.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Title: Accounts Payable Accountant

Location: Nigeria

The Work at the Foundation

• We have entered a very exciting time at the Foundation as we scale up our operations across Africa to realize our Young Africa Works strategy. Our role at the Mastercard Foundation is to be a catalyst. Our Young Africa Works strategy focuses on working with others to spur systemic change so young people have the opportunity to find work that is dignified and fulfilling.
• The Foundation has opened offices in Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Uganda, building a broader leadership presence in Africa to develop specific strategies that support youth employment.
• Within a country, we work with governments, the private sector, educators and other funders to improve the quality of education and vocational training, prepare young people for the work force, expand access to financial services for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and connect job seekers to dignified and fulfilling work.
• We are ambitious and driven. Our values transcend and rise above everything else as our guide. We encourage you to bring your bold ideas, curiosity, and expertise to your work. We laugh at ourselves and with each other. We are a team. Our journey together makes our impact even more meaningful.
• If you are an experienced Accounts Payable professional ready to increase your impact, read on!

The Opportunity

• Reporting to the Accounts Payable Lead and a valued member of the Shared Services Team, the Accounts Payable Accountant (2) reviews and processes multi-currency payments including electronic fund transfers (EFT), automated clearing house (ACH) and wire transfers in a timely manner ensuring accuracy of information and compliance with internal controls, policies and procedures.
• Ideal candidate can meet deadlines while providing a high level of customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

Ways You Can Contribute

• Review and process payments globally, including EFT, ACH and wire transfers for payment of invoices, program disbursements, expense reports and payroll funding ensuring accuracy of amounts, bank account information, and vendor details.
• Process transfers to replenish global bank accounts ensuring cash requirements are met.
• Lead the review and follow-up of problematic items, coordinate actions taken to eliminate issues, or escalate as needed.
• Support internal and external stakeholders with inquiries related to processing of bank transfers and payments.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of processes and procedures.

Who You Are

• A Diploma and / or Degree in Accounting, Business or in a related field is required. Relevant accounting certification/designation or in progress is highly desirable.
• You have a minimum of 3 – 5 years of accounts payable and payments experience working in a Canadian charity or foundation and/or global multi-currency environment.
• You have solid understanding of internal controls, accounting, and auditing principles.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• You are an active participant in an environment of fast-paced growth, continuous improvement, and teamwork.
• Keen attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, specifically Outlook, Word, Excel (intermediate/advanced), SharePoint.
• Knowledge of Great Plains and SAP Concur considered an asset.
• Proficiency in English is required. Ability to speak French and/or any local language(s) is an asset.
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to execute a range of job duties and changing priorities.
• Possess excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills with the ability to articulate information to a variety of constituents across all teams.
• Possess professional maturity, sensitivity with different cultures, and impeccable integrity.
• You have a commitment to Mastercard Foundation’s values and vision.

Application Closing Date
23rd June, 2021.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online