Financial Inclusion Product Manager Job Vacancy in Lilongwe, Malawi – Financial Services
Job Description
Position: Financial Inclusion Product Manager
Company: Mastercard
Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
Experience: 5+ years in product management, preferably in fintech or financial inclusion
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics or related field; Master’s preferred
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Financial Services
Department: Product Management
Salary: SSP 2,500,000 – SSP 3,500,000 per annum
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry, dedicated to connecting and powering an inclusive digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere. With a strong presence in Africa, Mastercard collaborates with governments, financial institutions, and technology partners to drive financial inclusion, innovation, and economic growth across the continent. In Malawi, Mastercard works closely with local banks, mobile money providers, and fintech startups to expand access to secure, affordable, and convenient payment solutions for unbanked and underbanked populations. The company’s commitment to sustainable development aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). As part of its strategic expansion, Mastercard seeks visionary leaders who can shape products that empower individuals and businesses, creating lasting impact in Malawi and beyond.
Job Overview
The Financial Inclusion Product Manager will lead the end‑to‑end development, launch, and scaling of innovative payment and financial products tailored to the unique needs of Malawian consumers and small‑medium enterprises. Reporting to the Regional Head of Product, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams—including engineering, design, data analytics, compliance, and partnership development—to ensure products are user‑centric, secure, and compliant with local regulations. This role is pivotal in advancing Mastercard’s mission to increase financial inclusion, drive digital adoption, and support economic empowerment across Malawi. You will be responsible for market research, product strategy, roadmap definition, and performance monitoring, ensuring that each solution delivers measurable social and commercial value.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive market analysis to identify gaps in financial services and opportunities for inclusive product development.
- Define product vision, strategy, and roadmap aligned with Mastercard’s financial inclusion goals and local market dynamics.
- Lead cross‑functional agile teams through concept, design, development, testing, and launch phases.
- Establish partnerships with banks, mobile network operators, fintech startups, NGOs, and government agencies to co‑create and distribute solutions.
- Develop business cases, pricing models, and risk assessments to ensure product viability and regulatory compliance.
- Monitor product performance using key metrics such as adoption rates, transaction volume, user satisfaction, and social impact indicators.
- Iterate on product features based on data‑driven insights, user feedback, and evolving market conditions.
- Represent Mastercard at industry forums, conferences, and stakeholder meetings to promote thought leadership in financial inclusion.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities with a data‑driven decision‑making approach.
- Proven experience in product lifecycle management within fintech, payments, or related sectors.
- Excellent stakeholder management and partnership building skills.
- Deep understanding of the Malawian financial ecosystem, regulatory environment, and consumer behavior.
- Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business value propositions.
- Leadership skills to inspire and guide multidisciplinary teams.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in Chichewa is an advantage.
- Proficiency with product management tools (Jira, Confluence, road‑mapping software).
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Computer Science, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Scrum Product Owner, PMP) are highly desirable and will be considered an asset.
Experience
Minimum of five years of product management experience, preferably within the financial services or fintech sector, with a proven track record of launching inclusive financial products in emerging markets. Experience working with mobile money platforms, digital wallets, or micro‑finance solutions is strongly preferred.
Salary
The compensation package ranges from SSP 2,500,000 to SSP 3,500,000 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, and a retirement savings plan.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and medical coverage for employee and dependents.
- Retirement savings scheme with employer contributions.
- Annual performance bonus tied to product impact metrics.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Professional development allowance and tuition reimbursement.
- Flexible working arrangements and remote work options.
Training
- Onboarding program covering Mastercard’s culture, compliance, and product frameworks.
- Access to Mastercard’s global learning platform for continuous skill enhancement.
- Mentorship from senior product leaders across the region.
- Opportunities to attend international fintech conferences and workshops.
Working Environment
Mastercard offers a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are celebrated. Our Lilongwe office is equipped with modern facilities, high‑speed internet, and collaborative spaces designed to foster creativity and teamwork. Employees enjoy a culture that encourages initiative, continuous learning, and social impact, aligning personal growth with Mastercard’s mission to drive financial inclusion.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and vision for financial inclusion in Malawi through our online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment. For more details on the application steps, visit the following link:
Equal Opportunity Statement
Mastercard is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage applications from qualified candidates who can contribute to our mission of fostering financial inclusion across Malawi.
