Head of Operations

ForAfrika is a long-standing African-led organisation seeking a Head of Operations to lead programme delivery, operational systems, and country strategy in South Africa. This role is pivotal for ensuring compliance, budget adherence, and timely execution across humanitarian, development, and social enterprise projects. The position requires strong leadership in strategy co-development, operational oversight, and cross-functional collaboration with senior leadership.⁠‌​‌​‌​​‌​​‌‌​​​‌‌​​​​‌‌‌​​‌​‌‌‌‌⁠

What it offers

This is a senior leadership position focused on programme and contract delivery, operational systems, and country strategy. The role involves owning the operational backbone of ForAfrika’s South African office, including procurement, logistics, HR, and compliance. The incumbent will work closely with the Country Managing Director to shape strategy, ensure financial and operational feasibility, and drive growth in earned-income ventures.

Who can apply

Applicants should be senior operational leaders with decades of experience in African development, humanitarian work, or social enterprise. Experience in programme management, procurement, risk management, and leadership in complex environments is essential. Relevant qualifications, such as a master’s or PhD in development studies, business administration, or a related field, are preferred. Nationality, age, or specific academic degrees are not explicitly restricted, but the role demands proven track records in leadership and operational execution in Africa.

What you'll do

• Co-develop country strategy with the Country Managing Director, focusing on delivery capacity, cost, and risk management.
• Lead operational components of strategy, including operating models, supply chain, and capability roadmaps.
• Own programme and contract delivery, ensuring compliance, budget adherence, and timely execution across humanitarian, institutional, and commercial projects.
• Manage procurement, logistics, HR, and operational controls for the Country Office and project sites.
• Assess feasibility and run approved PCV/FASE ventures, ensuring financial and operational separation of funds.
• Provide decision-ready reporting on operational risks, safeguarding, and performance to the Country Managing Director.
• Build and lead a culture of accountability, discipline, and operational excellence, aligning with ForAfrika’s core values.

How to apply

• Submit a detailed application including a cover letter, CV, and references outlining relevant experience in programme management, operational leadership, and development work in Africa.
• Highlight specific achievements in strategy co-development, risk management, and cross-functional leadership.
• Ensure all documents comply with ForAfrika’s application guidelines and deadlines (exact deadline not specified).

Good to know

• This is a full-time, senior leadership role based in South Africa, with potential for remote work coordination where applicable.
• The position requires strong interpersonal skills, decision-making authority, and adaptability in dynamic operational environments.
• No explicit salary range or benefits are provided in the source, but the role offers significant influence over operational strategy and project outcomes in a mission-driven organisation.

Note: ForAfrika’s commitment to African-led solutions and long-term impact is central to this opportunity.