The Mastercard Foundation is hiring a Head of Impact Labs for a 1-year consultancy. The role is based in one of their African offices: Rwanda, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Senegal, Ghana, or Nigeria. The selected candidate will lead innovation initiatives within the Foundation’s Impact Labs to accelerate scalable, impact-driven solutions aligned with the Foundation’s goals, particularly Young Africa Works and EleV strategies.
Key Responsibilities
Lead innovation projects from ideation to scaling.
Design and guide co-creation processes with teams and partners.
Oversee incubation and rollout of user-centred solutions.
Contribute to operational models for scalable, sustainable innovation.
Lead thematic work and develop methodologies.
Build strategic relationships internally and externally.
Represent the Labs in forums and promote thought leadership.
Mentor and develop talent within the team.
Contribute to cross-functional and organizational initiatives.
Job Requirements
Education
Advanced degree or equivalent experience in innovation-related fields.
Additional background in International Development, Economics, Research, or Social Sciences is an asset.
Experience
Significant experience in international development or market-based African initiatives.
Proven record leading complex, multi-stakeholder, impact-focused projects.
Expertise in participatory design, youth-led approaches, and knowledge generation.
Familiarity with innovation, tech, and science trends in Africa.
Proficiency in innovation project and product management, facilitation, and leadership.
Budget development and financial oversight experience.
Good to Have
Deep knowledge in impact measurement and learning.
Fluency in French (in addition to required English fluency).
Comfort working in dynamic, co-creative environments.
Ability to build inclusive partnerships and communicate complex ideas clearly.
Professional maturity, cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and strong values alignment.
Contract Duration
1 year
Location
Based in one of the Foundation’s offices in: Rwanda, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Senegal, Ghana, or Nigeria.
Deadline
Not specified; early application is advisable.
Additional Notes
Background checks and business references are required.
Mastercard Foundation is committed to inclusion and accessibility in its hiring and work environments.
