Head, Technical and Vocational Skills Development (TVSD) Initiatives at MasterCard

THE OPPORTUNITY

Reporting to the Director, Secondary Education, the Head, Technical and Vocational Skills Development (TVSD) Initiatives will oversee developing and effectively managing country, multi-country, and Pan-African Technical and Vocational Skills Development initiatives. 

WAYS YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

• Collaborate with the heads of Secondary Education units (Girls' Education, Access, and Success) as part of the Secondary Education Leadership team to shape and evolve program strategy.
• Oversee the design and implementation of Technical and Vocational Skills Development (TVSD) programs across the continent, ensuring high-quality delivery and progress tracking.
• Set portfolio goals and work with the Impact Team to monitor and achieve program objectives.
• Coordinate with Mastercard Foundation Country Program teams on local Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and skills development initiatives.
• Oversee learning organizations providing technical support on Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) at the continental level.
• Develop and manage consultancies.
• Share learning and collaborate with counterparts across the Education and Transitions team.
• Provide guidance and technical assistance to the Secondary Education team on TVSD.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration in program partnerships with a focus on impact.
• Promote thought leadership on secondary-level TVSD in partnership with Program Communications and Policy teams.
• Ensure data and learning are captured, reported, and integrated into program design and implementation.
• Build relationships with ecosystem actors and education stakeholders, representing the Foundation at workshops, conferences, and education forums.
• Track team operations expenses and support budget forecasting with Program Finance teams.
• Facilitate exchange and learning across the TVSD partner network, including organizing convenings and virtual meetings.
• Recruit talent, lead colleagues effectively, and ensure alignment with Foundation values while fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

WHO YOU ARE

• A master’s degree in education, economic development, or a related social sciences field is required, along with relevant professional qualifications in program management (an added advantage).
• Membership in relevant professional bodies and networks is advantageous.
• Minimum of twelve (12) years of experience, including at least five (5) years in a supervisory role, with a proven track record of building and managing high-performing teams in fast-paced, multi-cultural environments.
• Strong experience in education, particularly in technical and vocational skills development, secondary and/or higher education, and managing portfolios across multiple countries.
• Extensive experience engaging with senior leadership in development partners, education organizations, high-level government representatives, and the private sector.
• Excellent leadership and supervisory skills, especially in managing multi-location and virtual teams.
• Experience working across cultures and geographies, with a requirement of living and working in Africa.
• Strong communication and analytical skills, with the ability to articulate information across diverse cultures and think strategically to contribute to the Foundation’s development.
• Proficiency in English is required; French is a significant asset.
• Deep knowledge of key issues, trends, and challenges in skills development in Africa.
• Willingness and ability to travel.
• Demonstrate commitment to the Mastercard Foundation values.