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VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions

VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions

Position Title: VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions

Reporting To: Principal, Financial Institutions

Department: Investment Management

Location: Remote – any country within Africa

Firm Overview

WaterEquity is an impact investment manager dedicated to mobilizing private sector investments to accelerate universal access to water and sanitation. Since its launch in 2016, WaterEquity has raised five funds with over $460M in committed capital to solving UN Sustainable Development Goal 6. WaterEquity investments are designed to expand access to water and sanitation among low-income and underserved communities in emerging and frontier markets. Through its subsidiary, WaterEquity is a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission-registered investment adviser. Learn more about us at https://waterequity.com/ .

Summary

WaterEquity is seeking to recruit a VP/Senior VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions who will lead all aspects of the financial institution’s water and sanitation investment portfolio in the region, including deal sourcing, screening, negotiations, due diligence, and portfolio management. These investments consist of lending to financial institutions that on-lend to households and enterprises for water and sanitation.

The VP/ Senior VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions, will report to the Principal, Financial Institutions.

The ideal candidate will be able to quickly take over relationships with existing clients, generate pipeline, conclude investments, and assist in portfolio management. The candidate will contribute to the formulation and execution of long-term strategies for the region. The candidate should be comfortable working remotely and with team members in diverse geographic locations.

Job Responsibilities

Lead transactions:

  • Business development and screening of investment candidates
  • Structuring and negotiation
  • Due diligence
  • Financial, ESG, and impact analysis
  • Presentation of opportunities to investment committee
  • Coordination with other departments on investment documentation and disbursement
  • Oversee contributions of short-term contractors for Africa transactions
  • Support transactions in other geographic regions

Portfolio Management:

  • Monitor financial and operational health of investments
  • Lead workouts for problem investments
  • Monitor country and market risks
  • Support other departments with local compliance issues

Strategy, Coordination & Representation:

  • Lead regional coordination with sister organization, Water.org, as they deliver water and sanitation technical assistance to WaterEquity investment candidates
  • Support the Principal, Financial Institutions in refining strategies, processes, and tools
  • Identify opportunities for expansion of markets and products within the region
  • Represent WaterEquity, including at sector events and in discussions with other investors

Skills and Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in relevant field, or equivalent professional experience
  • Minimum ten (10) years of experience in finance/banking/microfinance/impact investing in emerging markets, with at least three (3) years of experience overseeing an investment portfolio, including in the Africa region.
  • Experience with due diligence and analysis of investment opportunities in financial institutions
  • Familiarity with retail or SME loan products in emerging markets, preferably housing or water and sanitation loans
  • Willingness to travel up to 30% to 40% of the tim
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills
  • Outstanding client relationship development and management skills
  • Proficiency in foreign languages is an advantage. Strong preference for professional working proficiency in French.

Physical Requirements

This role involves extended periods of sitting and reaching. This role requires the ability to see, talk, and hear.

Compensation and Benefits

Non-U.S. Based: The individual who fills this position will be employed by an international employer of record and assigned full-time to WaterEquity. This position will offer full-time benefits, including medical, dental/vision (where applicable), life insurance, and periodic review for merit and incentive pay based on organizational and personal achievement. All country-specific statutory requirements (i.e., time off) will apply. Overall compensation will be commensurate with education and experience and structured to reflect a competitive package for a full-time team member.

No relocation benefits, work permit reimbursement, or visa sponsorship will be offered.

How to Apply

Click the “submit application” link below.

WaterEquity is an equal opportunity employer. At WaterEquity, we are on an intentional journey to determine how we can champion diversity, equity, and inclusion not only within our organization but also within our industry. We are committed to creating a diverse work environment that is characterized by engagement, a sense of connection, and respect for the differences and contributions of all our professionals. WaterEquity recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

What You Should Know About VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions, WaterEquity

Are you ready to make a significant impact in the financial sector across Africa? WaterEquity is on the lookout for a VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions to lead our initiative in enhancing access to water and sanitation through strategic investments. In this dynamic role, you'll be at the forefront of developing and managing our financial institution’s portfolio across the continent, working hand-in-hand with a diverse team as you navigate deal sourcing, negotiations, and due diligence. Your expertise will help us identify key investment opportunities, ensuring we support households and enterprises through corresponding financial institutions. We’re looking for someone with at least ten years of experience in finance, particularly within emerging markets, and a solid track record in investment portfolio oversight. You'll collaborate closely with our sister organization, Water.org, and elevate WaterEquity’s ventures in the region. With strong interpersonal skills and a proactive approach to client relationship management, you’ll contribute to our mission of mobilizing private sector investments that address the UN Sustainable Development Goals. If you're passionate about making a real difference and inspiring positive change while working remotely, we would love to hear from you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions Role at WaterEquity
What are the responsibilities of the VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions at WaterEquity?

The VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions at WaterEquity is responsible for leading the financial institution’s investment portfolio in the region. Duties include deal sourcing, conducting due diligence, managing negotiations, and overseeing portfolio health. This role also involves coordination with Water.org to support technical assistance and ensuring compliance with local regulations.

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What qualifications do I need for the VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions role at WaterEquity?

Candidates for the VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions position should possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience. A minimum of ten years in finance or impact investing, particularly in emerging markets, including at least three years of experience with investment portfolio oversight, is essential.

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How can the VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions contribute to WaterEquity's mission?

The VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions will play a crucial role in advancing WaterEquity's mission by structuring and managing investments that expand access to water and sanitation in underserved communities. This role ensures alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and promotes sustainable financing solutions across the region.

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What type of experience is required for the VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions position?

Candidates should have extensive experience in finance or microfinance, specifically in emerging markets like Africa. Experience with due diligence, investment analysis, and familiarity with water and sanitation loan products are key requirements for this role at WaterEquity.

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Will the VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions role require travel?

Yes, the VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions may need to travel up to 30% to 40% of the time to engage with stakeholders and monitor investment progress across the region.

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Common Interview Questions for VP, Head of Africa for Financial Institutions
Can you describe your experience with deal sourcing in emerging markets?

In my previous role, I successfully identified and sourced several high-impact investment opportunities by conducting thorough market research and leveraging my network within the financial sector.

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How do you approach due diligence for prospective investments?

I approach due diligence by meticulously analyzing financial statements, assessing the operational stability of potential partners, and evaluating their ESG and impact metrics to align with our investment criteria.

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What strategies do you use to manage client relationships effectively?

Building strong relationships relies on consistent communication, understanding client needs, and providing tailored solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations. I prioritize frequent follow-ups to maintain engagement.

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How would you handle a problem investment?

In the event of a problem investment, I would first assess the root causes by reviewing financial and operational metrics, then engage with stakeholders to develop a turnaround strategy, ensuring we take corrective actions promptly.

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What do you see as the biggest challenges for financial institutions in Africa?

The primary challenges include limited access to capital, regulatory uncertainties, and the operational capacity of local institutions. Addressing these requires innovative financial solutions and strategic partnerships.

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How do you analyze the impact of an investment?

I analyze the impact by setting measurable goals and KPIs at the investment’s outset, then monitoring performance against these objectives throughout the investment lifecycle, ensuring alignment with broader social and environmental outcomes.

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What tools do you use for investment analysis?

I utilize a combination of financial modeling software, industry-specific databases, and impact assessment frameworks to evaluate investment opportunities comprehensively.

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Describe a successful investment you led and why it was impactful.

One successful investment I led involved a microfinance institution that provided loans for water infrastructure, leading to a 30% increase in access to clean water in rural communities, significantly improving health outcomes.

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What approaches do you take to develop strategies for expansion in new markets?

I conduct thorough market analyses, build relationships with local stakeholders, and assess regulatory landscapes to devise comprehensive strategies that capitalize on identified opportunities.

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How do you keep up with trends in impact investing?

I stay updated with trends in impact investing through continuous education, attending sector conferences, and engaging with thought leaders and peers in the industry to share insights and experiences.

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Full-time, remote
DATE POSTED
April 5, 2025

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