Job Openings at VFD Group

Job Summary

• 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 will be to provide strategic leadership and hands-on support to underperforming portfolio companies, guiding them through turn-around and growth phases.

Key Responsibilities

• Corporate Strategy Formulation & Execution: Lead the annual strategic planning process, from formulation and development to execution and monitoring, ensuring alignment with the Group’s vision, mission, and long-term objectives.
• Portfolio Strategy & Performance: In collaboration with the TIMS team, continuously evaluate the performance of the Group’s investment portfolio, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies to optimize returns and mitigate risks.
• Strategic Support for Underperforming Companies: Provide direct, hands-on strategic support to underperforming portfolio companies. This includes conducting deep-dive analyses, developing and implementing turnaround strategies, and working closely with the management of these companies to drive performance improvement.
• New Investment & Divestment Strategy: Provide strategic input into the evaluation of new investment opportunities and potential divestments, ensuring alignment with the Group’s overall strategic objectives and portfolio construction goals.
• Market Intelligence & Thought Leadership: Stay abreast of industry trends, competitive landscape, and macroeconomic factors affecting the Group’s portfolio companies. Provide thought leadership and strategic insights to the Executive Committee and the Board. Curate & prepare thought leadership content suitable for external circulation including to prospective investors, institutional stakeholders and regulators.
• Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, Executive Committee, portfolio company leadership, and external partners.
• Team Leadership & Development: Lead and mentor the Strategy team, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Requirements
Qualifications & Experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field. An MBA or other relevant postgraduate qualification is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 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 turn-around 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 of the organization.
• Strong leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.

Key Attributes:

• Strategic Thinker: Ability to see the big picture and develop long-term strategies while also being able to dive into the details and drive execution.
• Results-Oriented: A strong bias for action and a relentless focus on achieving measurable results.
• Collaborative: A team player who can work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Resilient: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and challenging environment.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: A proactive and innovative mindset with a passion for building businesses.

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Job Summary

• The Strategy Associate will be an integral part of the Strategy team, providing analytical support for the development and execution of VFD Group’s strategic initiatives.
• This entry-level role is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional to develop a strong foundation in corporate strategy, investment analysis, and business transformation within a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
• The Strategy Associate will work closely with the Strategy Manager and other team members on a variety of projects, including market research, financial modeling, and performance analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Data Collection & Analysis: Gather and analyze data from various sources to support strategic decision-making.
• Financial Modeling: Assist in the development and maintenance of financial models for performance tracking and forecasting.
• Market Research: Conduct research on industry trends, competitive landscape, and market opportunities.
• Presentation Support: Prepare presentations and other materials for internal and external stakeholders.
• Project Coordination: Provide support for the coordination and execution of strategic projects.

Requirements
Qualifications & Experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• 0-2 years of experience in a finance, consulting, or a similar analytical role. Internships in relevant fields will be considered.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A strong desire to learn and develop a career in strategy.

Key Attributes:

• Detail-Oriented: A high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proactive & Eager to Learn: A self-starter with a strong work ethic and a passion for learning.
• Team Player: A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Analytical Mindset: A natural curiosity and a structured approach to problem-solving.