Job Title: Director, Climate Action

Organization: Mastercard Foundation
Employment Type: Full-Time
Application Deadline: 17 February 2026 

Company Profile

The Mastercard Foundation is a global nonprofit organization committed to advancing education and financial inclusion to enable young people in Africa and Indigenous youth in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. We recognize climate change as a critical barrier to inclusive growth and sustainable livelihoods. Our work environment is collaborative, inclusive, and purpose-driven, providing a welcoming space for leaders who are passionate about climate resilience, equity, and long-term impact.

Role Overview

The Director, Climate Action leads the Foundation’s climate action agenda across Africa, shaping strategy, influencing policy, and driving high-impact programs that support climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and inclusive green economies. This role provides senior leadership, builds strong partnerships, and ensures that climate initiatives align with the Foundation’s mission, values, and continental priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the Foundation’s climate action strategy across Africa

• Design, implement, and scale climate-focused programs that deliver measurable social, economic, and environmental impact

• Provide thought leadership on climate science, policy, and global environmental trends relevant to Africa

• Build and manage strategic partnerships with local, national, regional, and Pan-African institutions and networks

• Influence climate policy and advocacy efforts at national, regional, and global levels

• Integrate gender equity and inclusion across climate action programs and partnerships

• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing, diverse teams across geographies

• Represent the Foundation in high-level forums, coalitions, and stakeholder engagements

• Monitor program performance, risks, and outcomes to ensure accountability and learning

• Uphold the Foundation’s values, integrity, and commitment to inclusive impact

Education, Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s degree in Social Science, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Public Policy, or a related field

• Minimum of fifteen (15) years’ relevant experience, including at least five (5) years at a senior management level

• Proven leadership experience in nonprofit organizations focused on climate change and environmental sustainability

• Strong understanding of climate science, global environmental issues, and policy landscapes

• Extensive experience designing and implementing climate action strategies and programs across Africa, including at the continental level

• Deep knowledge of local, national, regional, and Pan-African organizations and socio-economic and political contexts

• Experience working with gender-focused initiatives within climate action programs

• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and partnership-building capabilities

• Strategic and long-term thinker with a track record of delivering scalable climate solutions

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with experience engaging senior stakeholders

• Demonstrated professional maturity, cultural sensitivity, and integrity aligned with the Mastercard Foundation’s values

What We Offer

• A welcoming, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment

• The opportunity to shape climate action at continental scale

• Collaboration with global and Pan-African partners and leaders

• A leadership platform to drive equitable, sustainable impact

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application through the Mastercard Foundation’s official careers platform on or before 17 February 2026.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.