Lead Program Manager, Distribution at Airtel

Job Description

Airtel Africa is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and remain fully committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute strategic distribution transformation roadmaps aligned to business growth targets 
• Lead large-scale cross-functional programs that improve channel productivity, customer acquisition, market penetration, and operational efficiency.
• Drive the governance, planning, execution, monitoring, and benefits realization of critical distribution initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for business process improvement and optimization across the distribution ecosystem.
• Oversee the effectiveness and performance of distribution channels including agents, activating outlets, partners, digital channels, and third-party distributors.
• Support the design and implementation of new distribution models that enhance commercial performance.
• Develop robust business cases, project plans, budgets, risk mitigation frameworks, success metrics, and implementation schedules.
• Establish and monitor KPIs, dashboards, and reporting frameworks to track program performance and business impact.
• Engage management and stakeholders to align priorities, manage dependencies, and drive organizational commitment to strategic initiatives.
• Present program progress, key risks, opportunities, and recommendations to senior management 
• Lead, coach, and develop program and project team members to ensure successful delivery of strategic objectives. 

Qualifications & Experience

• Business related degree, PMP, Lean Six Sigma, PRINCE2, Agile, or other recognized project/program management certifications will be an added advantage. 
• Minimum of 5-7 years’ work experience, preferably within Telecommunications, FMCG, Retail or other distribution-intensive industries.
• Proven track record in leading large-scale cross-functional transformation programs and initiatives 
• Strong experience in stakeholder management at senior leadership level and influencing across multiple functions.

Key Competencies

• Strong commercial acumen 
• Results-oriented with a strong program and project management skills
• Advanced data analytics and problem-solving skills
• Strong financial and business case evaluation capability
• Executive stakeholder engagement and influencing skills
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Good organization skills with the ability to multitask