Unit Head - Research & Business Development at LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited

Job Summary

• The Unit Head - Research & Business Development will be responsible for leading and managing the Research and Business Development unit within LAPO Microfinance Bank. This role involves identifying, analysing, and evaluating potential business opportunities, conducting market research, developing new products and services, and driving strategic initiatives to enhance the bank's growth, profitability, and market position. The Unit Head will lead a team of research and business development professionals, sector leads and collaborate closely with other departments to achieve organizational objectives.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Research and Analysis:

• Lead the development and execution of the bank's research strategy, aligning it with overall business objectives.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and analysis of market research studies to identify customer needs, market trends, competitive landscape, and potential opportunities.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of industry reports, economic indicators, and regulatory changes to inform strategic decision-making.
• Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to senior management on market entry strategies, product development, and business expansion.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of existing products and services through research and analysis, recommending improvements or discontinuation where necessary.

Business Development and Innovation:

• Identify and evaluate potential new business opportunities, including partnerships, collaborations, and new market segments.
• Lead the development of innovative financial products and services tailored to the needs of LAPO's target market.
• Develop and present compelling business cases for new initiatives, including financial projections and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with relevant departments/units (e.g., Project Management Office, Product Development, Marketing, Operations, IT) to ensure the successful implementation of new products and services.
• Explore and evaluate the potential of digital financial services and other technological advancements to enhance the bank's offerings and reach.

Partnership and Stakeholder Management:

• Identify and cultivate relationships with potential strategic partners, including fintech companies, NGOs, government agencies, and other relevant organizations.
• Negotiate and manage partnership agreements to drive business growth and expand the bank's network.
• Represent the bank at industry events, conferences, and forums to build relationships and stay abreast of market trends.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across different departments to ensure alignment and effective execution of business development initiatives.

Team Leadership and Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of research and business development professionals.
• Set clear performance objectives, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance appraisals.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning within the unit.
• Ensure the team has the necessary resources and tools to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Prepare and present regular reports on research findings, business development activities, and the performance of new initiatives to your head of department and senior management.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of research methodologies, findings, business development plans, and partnership agreements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and internal policies.
• Other assigned tasks by management.   

Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Marketing, or a related field. A Master's degree is an added advantage.
• Experience:  Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in research, business development, or strategic planning within the financial services industry, preferably with experience in microfinance.
• Proven track record of successfully identifying and developing new business opportunities and launching new products/services.