Digital Payments Specialist (Open to all applicants)

The Digital Payments Specialist will support the implementation of the Better Than Cash Alliance (BTCA) initiative in Tanzania, focusing on piloting responsible, interoperable digital merchant payment solutions at selected East African Community (EAC) border points. The role involves collaborating with UNDP Tanzania Country Office, EAC Secretariat, and other stakeholders to design and deploy digital payment systems that reduce cash dependency among cross-border traders, particularly women and youth-led micro and small enterprises (MSMEs). Key responsibilities include conducting market assessments to identify barriers to digital adoption, developing fit-for-purpose financial products tailored to border communities, and coordinating with fintech partners to implement scalable solutions. The specialist will also engage in stakeholder consultations with governments, regulators, financial service providers, and traders' associations to align payment systems with regional frameworks such as the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade. Additionally, the role will support capacity-building initiatives to enhance digital literacy and trust in digital payment systems among traders. The position is part of a catalytic initiative aimed at generating transaction histories that unlock credit access, improve transparency, and expand market opportunities for MSMEs while contributing to SDG targets on poverty reduction, gender equality, and reduced inequalities.

Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Economics, Finance, Business Administration, Information Technology, or a related field; Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in digital payments, financial inclusion, or digital innovation, with at least 3 years in a leadership or advisory role; Demonstrated expertise in designing and implementing digital payment solutions, preferably in cross-border or informal trade contexts; Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks related to KYC, AML, and interoperability standards; Experience working with regional economic blocs (e.g., EAC, COMESA, SADC) or international organizations is highly desirable; Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills; Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required; Knowledge of Swahili or other regional languages is an asset.