Head of Strategy at VFD Group

Job Description

The Head of Strategy will be a key member of the executive team, responsible for shaping and driving the strategic direction of VFD Group. This role requires a visionary leader with a strong track record in corporate strategy, investment management, and business transformation, particularly within the Nigerian context. The Head of Strategy will work closely with the Executive Committee, the Board, and the Transaction, Investment Management & Strategy (TIMS) team to formulate and execute strategies that enhance portfolio performance, drive growth, and create sustainable shareholder value. A critical aspect of this role is to provide strategic leadership and hands-on support to underperforming portfolio companies, guiding them through turnaround and growth phases.

• Lead the annual strategic planning process, from formulation and development to execution and monitoring.
• Ensure alignment of strategic plans with the Group's vision, mission, and long-term objectives.
• Continuously evaluate the performance of the Group's investment portfolio in collaboration with the TIMS team.
• Identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to optimize returns and mitigate risks.
• Provide direct, hands-on strategic support to underperforming portfolio companies.
• Conduct deep-dive analyses and develop and implement turnaround strategies.
• Work closely with management of these companies to drive performance improvement.
• Provide strategic input into the evaluation of new investment opportunities and potential divestments.
• Ensure alignment with the Group's overall strategic objectives and portfolio construction goals.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, competitive landscape, and macroeconomic factors affecting portfolio companies.
• Provide thought leadership and strategic insights to the Executive Committee and the Board.
• Curate and prepare thought leadership content for external circulation, including to prospective investors, institutional stakeholders, and regulators.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with the Board, Executive Committee, portfolio company leadership, and external partners.
• Lead and mentor the Strategy team, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• Preferred Qualification: MBA or other relevant postgraduate qualification.
• 10-15 years of experience in a senior strategic role, preferably within a holding company, private equity firm, or management consulting firm in Nigeria.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful corporate and business-level strategies.
• Strong experience in investment analysis, portfolio management, and business turnaround situations.
• Deep understanding of the Nigerian business environment, including regulatory and market dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and financial modeling skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus at all levels.
• Strong leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.
• Strategic Thinker - sees the big picture while driving execution on the details.
• Results-Oriented - strong bias for action and focus on measurable results.
• Collaborative - works effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Resilient - thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic, and challenging environment.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit - proactive, innovative mindset with a passion for building businesses.