Fintech Frontiers Lead

Safaricom is hiring a Fintech Frontiers Lead to identify, develop and scale next-generation innovations that support long-term growth, competitive advantage and ecosystem expansion. Based in Kenya, the role focuses on emerging technologies, new business models and untapped fintech opportunities, translating innovation into commercially viable solutions that create customer value.

Key Job Information

• Position: Fintech Frontiers Lead
• Company: Safaricom
• Location: Safaricom Care Centre, Waiyaki Way, Westlands, P.O BOX 46350, 00100, KE
• Employment Type: Full time
• Job Category: Financial Services
• Job Reference: 1538
• Application Deadline: 29 September 2026 at 2:55 AM

About Safaricom

Safaricom is a technology company operating across Kenya and Ethiopia, providing connectivity and digital services. Its services include M-PESA, while the company states that it is an equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting staff from different backgrounds and achieving equal gender representation.

About the Role

Reporting to the Tribe Lead, Next Gen Fintech, the Fintech Frontiers Lead will scan the external environment for emerging developments such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, embedded finance, digital identity, open banking and decentralized finance. The role will evaluate their relevance to the business and translate promising opportunities into strategies, pilots and scalable solutions.

The position will lead experimentation through proofs of concept, incubations and partnerships with startups, fintechs and technology providers. It will also contribute to the evaluation of potential investments, partnerships and acquisitions while working with regulators, industry bodies and innovation hubs to support compliant and scalable innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify global fintech trends, technology disruptions and emerging opportunities relevant to the business.
• Monitor developments in AI, blockchain, open banking and other frontier technologies, as well as regulatory changes affecting innovation.
• Develop fintech frontier strategies and long-term innovation roadmaps aligned with business, customer and market needs.
• Design and lead proofs of concept, pilot programmes, rapid prototypes and controlled technology experiments.
• Evaluate pilot performance against defined KPIs and refine solutions based on results and learning.
• Build relationships with startups, fintechs, technology providers, venture capital networks and innovation ecosystems.
• Integrate emerging technologies into existing platforms while supporting interoperability, scalability, performance and customer experience.
• Develop business cases, monetization approaches and go-to-market strategies for commercially viable innovations.
• Assess investment, partnership and acquisition opportunities that align with long-term innovation objectives.
• Ensure innovation initiatives meet applicable regulatory, risk, data privacy, security and governance requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Technology, Business, Innovation or a related field.
• MBA is preferred.
• 8–12 years of experience in fintech, banking, innovation or digital transformation roles.
• Strong knowledge of emerging technologies, including AI, blockchain, APIs, open banking and embedded finance.
• Proven experience in innovation strategy, product incubation or new venture development.
• Experience working with fintech startups, ecosystems and partnership models.
• Strong understanding of financial services regulations, risk and compliance frameworks.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate emerging trends into business opportunities.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and complex innovation programmes.
• Proficiency in data analysis, business case development and ROI evaluation.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication and executive influencing skills.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates interested in the Fintech Frontiers Lead opportunity can apply through the Safaricom recruitment platform. Applications should be submitted by 29 September 2026 at 2:55 AM.