Digital VAS & Next Gen Innovation Lead

About the role

Safaricom is looking for a Digital VAS and Next Generation Innovation Lead to drive new digital business growth and own the strategy for its Digital VAS portfolio. The role focuses on API monetization, ad-tech and emerging digital platform opportunities, and works closely with cross-functional teams to launch and scale new services.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, incubate and scale new digital revenue streams, focusing on API monetization, ad-tech and emerging digital platforms.
• Define and execute the growth strategy for Digital VAS businesses such as digital health, video messaging and voice AI solutions.
• Develop business models, pricing strategies and go-to-market plans with segment teams to maximize revenue, profitability and ROI.
• Negotiate and manage partnerships with technology providers, content partners, developers, enterprises, startups, agencies and ecosystem players.
• Build and scale API ecosystems and grow ad-tech by partnering with brands, SMEs, agencies, technology providers and media platforms.
• Monitor emerging technologies and market trends to build a pipeline of future digital businesses.
• Own revenue growth, profitability, customer adoption and overall commercial performance, delivering revenue, profitability and customer growth targets.
• Collaborate with Commercial, Technology, AI & Data Science, Finance, Regulatory, Legal and CX teams to launch and scale services.
• Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of products and strategic partnerships, from business case to performance management and renewal.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Telecommunications, Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Marketing, Economics or a related field.
• Master's degree (MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification) is an added advantage.
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in telecommunications, technology, digital services, fintech, content or media.
• At least 4-5 years in a leadership or senior management role driving digital products, innovation, partnerships or new business development.
• Demonstrated experience in digital business development, API ecosystem development, ad-tech or MarTech, and strategic partnership management.