Procurement & Operations Manager at a Pan-African Innovation-focused Organisation

We are a pan-African innovation-focused organisation that works with over 500 innovation and technology hubs and other stakeholders to raise successful startups and entrepreneurs that are developing and deploying innovative solutions to African problems through the adoption of technologies.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Procurement & Operations Manager

Location: Abuja (FCT)
Employment Type: Full-time (Hybrid)
Working Time / Days: 9 AM- 5 PM; Monday to Friday

Responsibilities
Operational Activities:

• Strategically support the execution of major donor-funded projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Provide leadership in overseeing daily operations of the secretariat, optimising efficiency and effectiveness.
• Develop and manage the operational budget, driving cost savings initiatives without compromising quality.
• Spearhead the trademarking process for all organization names to ensure legal protection.
• Formulate and implement organizational policies while ensuring team-wide awareness and adherence.
• Utilise data analysis to calculate comprehensive cost-benefit ratios for informed decision-making.
• Collaborate in addressing due diligence queries for project/programme applications, showcasing a commitment to quality standards.
• Research and recommend innovative technologies and methodologies to enhance operational efficiency.
• Oversee the engagement of the organization’s vendors.

Corporate Travel Management:

• Manage end-to-end travel and logistics arrangements for the team and Board members, ensuring seamless experiences.
• Forge strategic partnerships with travel agents, negotiating advantageous deals for the organization.
• Innovate and implement logistics solutions that optimise travel experiences and productivity.
• Establish global partnerships with airlines and embassies, enhancing organizational reach and influence.

Procurement:

• Lead and facilitate project implementations and contracting processes, ensuring seamless execution.
• Collaborate with the legal team to meticulously review and finalise all legal documents.
• Oversee comprehensive procurement processes for goods and services, emphasising quality and value.
• Manage the onboarding and contracting of vendors and consultants, ensuring alignment with organizational standards.
• Efficiently manage inventory, both physical and remote, to support operational needs.
• Ensure facility management and compliance with utility agencies, maintaining a productive workplace.
• Collaborate with the programs team to attract and engage skilled talents for project excellence.
• Maintain a comprehensive repository of organizational MoUs and agreements with stakeholders.

Audit & Compliance:

• Ensure full legal compliance with local and international regulations, safeguarding the organization's reputation.
• Collaborate closely with the Finance, Audit & Compliance department to support audit procedures.
• Provide cross-functional assistance to other departments, fostering a collaborative and integrated work environment.

Admin Functions:

• Oversee administrative functions, ensuring smooth office operations and resource allocation.
• Develop and implement administrative policies and procedures, promoting consistency and efficiency.
• Supervise administrative staff, providing guidance, mentorship, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Coordinate logistics for internal and external meetings, workshops, and events.
• Manage office supplies, equipment, and facilities, optimising resource utilisation.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and security protocols in the workplace.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Continuously seek opportunities for operational enhancement and innovation.
• Spearhead special projects and initiatives to advance organizational objectives.
• Lead, inspire, and mentor a high-performing operations team.
• Foster effective communication and collaboration across departments.
• Adapt to evolving organizational needs and priorities, demonstrating flexibility and agility.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent in Operations/Logistics or Supply chain management, Business Administration, Professional body affiliation or a field related to the position.
• A Bachelor’s or equivalent degree with a combination of relevant academic qualifications and additional 5 years of experience in operations management and procurement may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.

Experience:

• 5 - 7 in overseeing the Operations of organizations on a Pan-African scale.
• 5 years managerial experience preferably working for a Non-profit organization.

Required Skills, Qualifications & Abilities:

• Knowledge of the African innovation, technology and entrepreneurship space.
• Minimum of 5 -7 years of experience leading major entrepreneurship, technology and innovation grassroots projects.
• Effective leadership, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Good knowledge of adaptive Operations and Procurement techniques.
• Good knowledge of budgeting and resource allocation procedures.
• Sufficient seniority and credibility to advise project teams on their projects in relation to the programme.
• Ability to find ways of solving or pre-empting problems.
• Adept with information communications technology (ICT) commonly used in office applications, with advanced knowledge of Google Drive applications, Dropbox and Microsoft Office products.

Application Closing Date
25th April, 2025.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their Cover Letter and Resume to: jobs@afrilabs.com using the Job Title as the subject of the mail.