Strategy and Program Manager

About Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX)

ESX is Ethiopia’s first, and only organized securities exchange. ESX is being established as a public private partnership in line with Article 31 of the Capital Market Proclamation (No.1248/2021).

ESX operates the business of a securities exchange, functions as a Self-Regulatory Organization (“SRO”), and serves as the central market organizer providing an integrated product suite covering the equities, fixed income, and money market segments of the capital markets.

As the pioneer securities exchange, ESX aims to play a critical role in the development and growth of the Ethiopian capital markets. ESX’s core objective is to facilitate access to capital and support effective capital allocation in a manner that supports Ethiopia’s economic growth. By developing a well-regulated and efficient capital market ecosystem, ESX will enable mobilization of financial resources for both public and private sector institutions while providing investors a reliable platform to invest in a reliable and efficient environment. 

Job Summary

The role holder is responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives to drive growth and enhance operational efficiency within the ESX and plays a vital role in bridging the gap between strategy and execution. This role requires a strong analytical mindset, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record of successful project management. It includes developing long-term business strategies to support growth and revenue, identifying weaknesses or opportunities in ongoing strategies, and analyzing and assessing internal processes and market trends.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively leads the design, delivery and deployment of strategic programs that support ESX’s roadmap and strategic direction.
• Develop new solutions, practices and strategies to support long-term business growth
• Ensure broader strategies are translated into actionable programs and initiatives aligned to the mission and vision of the company
• Prepare for and interface with advisors, clients and the public regarding macro research recommendations and analysis for the design and implementation of strategic plan.
• Design, oversee and manage multiple projects.
• Ensuring completion of programs on schedule and budget in pursuit of delivering business outcome.
• Evaluate the development of project level and consolidated analysis to monitor the achievement of ESX’s overall strategy.
• Monitor program progress and alignment between technology, operations and business needs along with resources.
• Conduct comprehensive stakeholder analysis for complex strategic programs.
• Prepare, measure, evaluate, communicate, report the periodic plans.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve company objectives and drive long-term growth in the capital market sector.
• Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, competitive threats, and growth opportunities.
• Identify and design mitigation plan with the necessary department to risks that could impact programs and overall plan
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables for key initiatives.
• Lead the execution of strategic programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and timelines.
• Establish KPIs and performance metrics to measure the success of strategic initiatives and track progress towards targets.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the Chief Market Development Officer on the status of projects, including any risks or obstacles encountered.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize operational processes and enhance overall efficiency.
• Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within the organization, encouraging team members to contribute ideas and solutions.

Relationships

Internal: Chief Market Development Officer, Operations team, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer,

External: different stakeholders

Qualification Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, Economics, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years proven experience in strategic planning, program management, or consulting roles preferably within the financial services industry.

Competency Requirements:

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets and draw actionable insights.
• Strong knowledge of econometrics, empirical finance and macroeconomics.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including the ability to motivate and inspire teams to achieve common goals.
• Proficiency in project management tools and techniques, with a track record of successfully managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strategic thinker with a results-driven mindset and a passion for driving organizational change and innovation.
• A background in capital markets would be an added benefit.
• Report writing and presentation skill. 
• Interpersonal skills