JOB SUMMARY
The position will be responsible for managing all of the Company’s interactions with key government officials, policymakers, public influencers, and regulators in Iraq. The company is well-positioned to leverage potential partnerships with national government agencies, particularly in the areas of financial inclusion, economic digitization, the delivery of social services, government disbursements and collection, and other potential government programs that may benefit from the application of digital payments. The expansion of the industry in general, is not hindered by intrusive political or regulatory intervention. The company’s profile and reputation are optimized through the delivery of coordinated communications and education targeted at key central bank officials, regulators, government officials, and other policymakers. The company’s outreach and messaging in Iraq are consistent with similar efforts in other key markets around the world.
JOB SCOPE
Reports to the VP of Government Engagement for the GCC & NALP region. Works very closely with country, group-level, and global colleagues including Country Management, Corporate Communications, Legal, Marketing, Strategy, Risk Management, Social Impact, and Products departments. Liaises closely with Government Engagement colleagues in the region& around the world to develop and refine best practices. Works with cross-divisional business teams as subject matter expert on policy and regulatory issues and government relations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and implement an effective Government Engagement strategy in Iraq
- Lead the development and building of stakeholder relationships with Governments, businesses, and non-governmental organizations at all levels
- Ensure that Government Engagement plans are aligned with the company’s strategic business objectives
- Establish and maintain effective long-term relations with Governments and other external stakeholders at the appropriate levels
- Monitor the regulatory and policy management environment in Iraq to make timely interventions to protect the company’s commercial interests
- Identify opportunities and support business development programs and initiatives
- Manage day-to-day Government Engagement operations and represent the company at relevant forums in Iraq and abroad
- Ensure optimization of meeting targets and Government Engagement objectives by introducing best practices
- Build and maintain internal relationships and enhance an understanding of the function within
KEY COMPETENCIES
- General understanding of the digital payments industry and its economic and social impact
- Proven track record and experience in all aspects of developing and implementing stakeholder relations strategies
- In-depth knowledge of the local business and political environments in Iraq
- Political and business acumen
- Ability to think creatively and innovatively
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- A motivated, self-starter who can work independently, within a team, and without daily supervision
- A team player, able to work across various company functions
- Computer literacy
- Fluency in English and Arabic is essential
*Only applicants meeting the strict criteria outlined above will be contacted as part of the shortlisting process.