Director of Operations

ZAF seeks to strengthen her Operations Directorate by recruiting an Operations Director to oversee the overall leadership of all aspects of finance, human & IT resource management, procurement and administration, nurturing a sense of collective ownership for sustained growth, financial health, and impact. The Director of Operations will act as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the organization, responsible for coordinating the formulation, execution, tracking and performance monitoring of the ZAF overall strategy. A key deliverable will be to ensure that ZAF programs are executed efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with the stated strategic goals and organization policies. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic leader with experience in operations management, strategic planning, financial management and team development within a fast paced environment, preferably in the not-for profit sector.

Responsibilities

Finance (25%)

• Lead the financial management and reporting of Zizi Afrique Foundation and oversee the implementation of the finance and administration policies.
• Monitor cash flow and maintain operating reserves adequate to ensure smooth running of the organization.
• Review monthly financial statements including but not limited to revenue, assets and expenses.
• Provide regular updates on expenditure to the Senior Management Team and project managers to support budget tracking and expenditure.
• Be the custodian of all organizational budgets and contracts, and the head of organizational accountability.
• Lead internal audit for system compliance and improvement. Coordinate the execution of audit and risk, ensuring the closure of all identified audit and risk matters.

People Management (25%)

• Oversee recruitment, orientation, training, and performance management of all personnel, and
• oversee the implementation of the HR policies.
• Establish and maintain a work environment that attracts and retains talent for delivery of impact.
• Ensure staff are well-motivated and developed to deliver on their roles.
• Implement a suitable and effective performance management system.
• Oversee payroll management for the entire organization.
• Oversee and facilitate staff meetings.
• Lead, coach, develop, and retain high-performance team members in the operations directorate.

Procurement and Administration (20%)

• Lead the development and implementation of organizational procurement and administration policies.
• Oversee the daily operations to ensure effective program delivery and operational efficiency.
• Oversee compliance on all matters of procurement and administration.
• Ensure adequate systems and technologies that support the organization in the execution of its work.
• Develop and maintain organization-wide policies, procedures, and standards to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations and organizations vision and mission.
• Work closely with the procurement team in negotiating the best deals with suppliers which deliver the best value for money.
• Sustain effective IT systems for efficient running of business at Zizi Afrique Foundation.
• Manage all office related matters including leases, ergonomics and staff welfare.

Strategic Leadership and Operational Oversight (30%)

• Lead governance in respect to audit and risk, including managing the annual financial audit and reporting cycle.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that align with the organization's mission and objectives.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and senior leadership team to define and drive the organization's strategic vision and goals.
• Review and present regular reports to the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and donors.
• Ensure compliance with all organizational policies and local laws, including donor regulations and reporting requirements.
• Lead the creation of resources for sustainability of Zizi Afrique Foundation.
• Work closely with program managers to evaluate program outcomes and refine strategies for maximum impact.
• Provide induction on organization operations to new staff and long-term consultants and ensure all staff are regularly trained and up to-date with the operations systems and platforms.
• Participate in the maintenance and implementation of the Strategic Plan.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Desirable Skills and Qualifications

• Post-graduate qualifications (Masters or PhD) or equivalent in business administration or related field.
• Professional Qualifications /Membership to professional bodies - Finance or management professional, CPA-K or equivalent; or any other business-related professional body.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within a large organization, preferably an NGO or other not – for- profit organization.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with a proven track record of building and leading high-performing teams.
• Excellent strategic planning and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional financial acumen, with experience managing large budgets and ensuring financial accountability.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in the use of ERP or comparable organizational management systems.
• Knowledge of key compliance legislation for not-for profit sector.
• Honest, encourages openness and transparency; demonstrates highest levels of integrity.
• Develops and encourages new and innovative solutions.
• Holds oneself and others accountable for making decisions and managing resources to deliver on the responsibilities.
• Agile worker, future oriented and a strategic thinker.