The Role

ASA Nigeria, operating as ASHA Microfinance Bank Limited, is a subsidiary of ASA International, one of the world’s largest international microfinance institutions. Established under Nigerian law and regulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria, ASHA Microfinance Bank provides small, socially responsible loans to low-income, predominantly female entrepreneurs. The bank’s mission is to enhance the socioeconomic progress of low-income entrepreneurs by increasing financial inclusion. ASHA Microfinance Bank operates with a vision of creating just and financially inclusive societies, focusing on reducing poverty and enabling female empowerment.

ASHA Microfinance Bank serves over 150,000 clients through 269 branches across Nigeria, and services a multi-million dollar loan portfolio. By providing small loans to low-income business owners (primarily women), ASHA Microfinance Bank empowers Nigerians to start or grow their businesses, fostering economic independence and community development. ASHA Microfinance Bank’s sustainable lending practices ensure that clients can access financial services without falling into debt traps.

In order to more effectively service their customer base, ASHA is migrating to the Temenos (T24) core banking system. The leader on this implementation will have a significant impact on the institution, enabling exponential growth, reduced cost-to-serve and additional customer touch-points.

About the role

Working closely with the CEO, you will drive the implementation of Temenos (T24), working with global peers and teams to ensure seamless, on-time and on-budget program delivery.

You will have previous experience implementing a core banking (or related) system, alongside a deep appreciation for the role that leaders play during a systems transformation.

Alongside leading the digital transformation initiatives, you will be driving data-based decision-making, and implementing behavioural science-led lending strategies within the organization.

This role requires a visionary leader with a strong understanding of both microfinance operations and technological innovations.

Key dimensions of the role

Strategic Planning and Programme Management:

Execute the digital transformation strategy aligned with the organization's overall goals and objectives.
Identify opportunities to leverage technology, data analytics, and behavioural science to improve efficiency, scalability, and client experience in microfinance operations.
Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to drive innovation and competitive advantage.
Lead technology-related change initiatives with a high sense of personal leadership.

Digital Infrastructure Management:

Oversee the implementation and maintenance of digital infrastructure, including software, networks, and security systems.
Ensure the reliability, availability, and security of digital systems to support uninterrupted business operations.
Establish and enforce digital policies, procedures, and best practices to safeguard data integrity and privacy.

Management Information Systems (MIS):

Lead the development and enhancement of MIS platforms to facilitate data-driven decision-making across the organization.
Collaborate with stakeholders to define reporting requirements and ensure timely and accurate delivery of management information.
Implement analytics tools and dashboards to monitor key performance indicators and track organizational performance.

Vendor Management:

Manage relationships with digital vendors, service providers, and consultants to ensure quality service delivery and cost-effective solutions.
Evaluate and negotiate contracts, service level agreements, and pricing terms to optimize value for the organization.
Monitor vendor performance and compliance with contractual obligations.

Team Leadership:

Recruit, develop, and mentor a high-performing digital team capable of delivering results in a fast-paced environment.
Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the department.
Provide leadership and guidance to team members to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.

Skills and experience

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.
Master’s degree will be a plus.
Proven 10 years of experience in a leadership role overseeing digital transformation and MIS functions, preferably in the microfinance or financial services sector.
Strong technical expertise in digital infrastructure management, software development, database administration, and cybersecurity.
Experience with MIS platforms, data analytics tools, and business intelligence solutions.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
A passion for leveraging technology and data to drive operational excellence and business growth.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Millar Cameron, we are dedicated to supporting our clients in building and supporting diverse and inclusive workplaces and culture, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Since 2007 Millar Cameron has specialised in sourcing leadership and keyperson talent across a number of industries, including agribusiness, international development, industrial, consumer, financial and professional services, private equity, and technology, media and telecommunications. Our mission and purpose is to positively contribute to the development of Africa, and other emerging markets, through the provision of people.