Chief Executive Officer

Company Description

Twelve is a modern daily money solution focused on people across Africa who are underserved by traditional banking and committed to moving themselves and their communities forward. The company brings together everyday banking, loyalty and cashback, flexible credit products, merchant solutions, instant transfers, and bill and airtime payments into one seamless platform with transparent, easy-to-understand terms. Twelve's business model is aligned with customer growth, using technology and financial expertise to turn complex finance into simple, intuitive experiences. Headquartered in the UAE with operations in Kenya and plans to expand across Sub-Saharan Africa, Twelve is backed by investors who share its vision of building the leading neobank on the continent. The team is growing across multiple functions for individuals who believe financial technology should work for everyone, not just a privileged few.

Role Description

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Twelve will provide overall strategic leadership, set the long-term vision, and ensure execution of the company’s mission to deliver modern financial services across Africa. This full-time, on-site role, based in Dallas, TX, will oversee core functions including finance, operations, product, technology, sales, and growth, ensuring alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements. The CEO will lead fundraising and investor relations, drive market expansion strategies, and build strong relationships with partners, regulators, and other stakeholders. Day-to-day responsibilities include guiding the executive team, making data-informed decisions, reviewing performance metrics, managing risk, and ensuring a culture of accountability, innovation, and customer-centricity. The CEO will represent Twelve publicly, championing the brand and advocating for fair, accessible financial services in key markets.

Qualifications

• Strong finance and financial management skills, including familiarity with fintech business models and unit economics.
• Proven experience in operations management and scaling organizations across multiple markets or regions.
• Expertise in business planning and strategic planning, with a track record of setting and executing long-term growth strategies.
• Demonstrated success in sales leadership, commercial strategy, and building high-performing go-to-market teams.
• Experience leading senior executives and cross-functional teams, with inclusive and transparent leadership practices.
• Background in financial services, technology, or high-growth startups; experience in African or emerging markets is highly beneficial.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills, including managing board and investor relationships.
• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, economics, or a related field; an advanced degree (e.g., MBA) is preferred.
• Ability to work on-site in Dallas, TX and collaborate across time zones with international teams.