We are looking for an experienced Launch Director to lead the commercial launch of a new microfinance business in South Africa.
This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in building a business from the ground up. Working directly with the founders, you will drive market entry, establish strategic partnerships and help create a strong local presence from day one.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the commercial launch of the microfinance business in South Africa.
- Develop and execute the market entry strategy together with the founders.
- Identify and evaluate new business opportunities.
- Build strategic partnerships with banks, payment providers, credit bureaus, collection agencies and other key market players.
- Lead commercial negotiations and establish long-term partnerships.
- Represent the company in meetings, conferences and industry events.
- Build and maintain a strong network within the South African financial services ecosystem.
- Work closely with legal, compliance, product and operations teams throughout the launch process.
- Coordinate commercial workstreams and ensure launch activities move forward according to plan.
- Provide founders with regular market insights, recommendations and progress updates.
Requirements
- Proven experience in the microfinance industry.
- Experience launching, scaling or expanding a financial services business into a new market.
- Strong commercial background with experience in business development, strategic partnerships or market expansion.
- Deep understanding of the microfinance ecosystem and its key stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to build high-value partnerships and negotiate complex commercial agreements.
- Excellent networking, stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
- Ability to work independently in a fast-changing environment.
- English level – В2 (Upper-Intermediate) or higher.
- Availability for periodic business trips to South Africa as required.
What We Offer
- Opportunity to lead the launch of a new international microfinance business.
- Direct collaboration with founders and key decision-makers.
- High level of ownership and autonomy.
- Opportunity to shape the company’s market-entry strategy and commercial direction.
- A remote-first work environment.
- Flexible cooperation terms.
- Competitive compensation based on your experience and results.
If you’re excited by the opportunity to build a business from the ground up and make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you!