Regulatory & Government Relations Advisor at Umba – Nairobi

Regulatory & Government Relations Advisor

Location: Nairobi, Kenya Type: Contract / Advisory Duration: 6 months (with potential extension) Reports to: Group CEO
About Umba
Umba is a pan-African digital bank operating in Kenya and Nigeria, offering consumer and SME banking, vehicle finance, payments, and cross-border remittances. In 2023, Umba acquired a deposit-taking microfinance bank in Kenya, rebranded as Umba Microfinance Bank, which achieved 6x revenue growth in 2024. Umba is entering a high-growth phase and pursuing strategic initiatives that require deep engagement with Kenya's financial sector regulators. Role Overview
Umba is seeking a senior regulatory and government relations advisor based in Nairobi to lead engagement with the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) on strategic regulatory matters. This is a high-impact advisory engagement working directly with the Group CEO and Umba's legal counsel.
The ideal candidate has deep relationships within CBK and extensive experience navigating Kenya's banking regulatory landscape — including licensing, compliance, and approvals processes. Key Responsibilities
Lead day-to-day engagement with CBK on licensing, compliance, and strategic regulatory matters Advise on Kenya's banking regulatory framework, including license categories and upgrade pathways Attend in-person meetings at CBK and coordinate with Umba's legal advisors
Develop and execute regulatory strategy aligned with Umba's growth objectives Provide regular briefings on regulatory progress, risks, and stakeholder dynamics
Navigate informal dynamics and relationships within CBK and the broader regulatory ecosystem Prepare regulatory filings, applications, and formal correspondence as needed
Support coordination between Umba, external partners, and CBK
Requirements
10+ years in Kenyan financial services regulation, banking compliance, or government relations
Deep understanding of CBK's licensing framework and regulatory processes Based in Nairobi with availability for in-person meetings at short notice Strong written communication skills for regular remote briefings to the CEO Preferred Qualifications
Former CBK staff (examiner, supervisor, department head) or senior regulatory/compliance role at a Kenyan commercial bank