Director of Operations at Creative Associates International

Job Summary:

The Director of Operations will provide leadership in the management of project operations, human resources, and administration, and will report directly to the COP. S/he will supervise all staff in operations, procurement, administration, and human relations based in Abuja, Bauchi, Sokoto, Adamawa, and other locations as relevant, adhering to the internal organizational structure. S/he will additionally serve as primary liaison with local legal counsel and with local vendors, as appropriate.  This position will collaborate closely with other senior staff and all team members to ensure high standards of service delivery and accountability and full compliance with USAID and CAI regulations and policies.

The Director of Operations will report to the Chief of Party. S/he will directly supervise project managers in operations, office management, administration, HR, and procurement.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work with the project’s Operations team in all Nigerian locations to establish internal control systems, quality assurance, and protocols for local subcontractors and/or sub-grantees.
• Ensure that the operations of the project are in place and in compliance with local law as well as with donor and CAI policies and procedures, including field operations management guide, inventory, and ICT, and are implemented effectively.
• Ensure an in-depth understanding of operations and logistics among staff, as required for project implementation throughout Nigeria.
• Manage and oversee staff responsible for arranging travel and logistics for staff and project equipment and inventory and provide administrative and logistical support to the portfolio of programs.
• Streamline and maintain procurement processes to ensure compliance while meeting programmatic requirements.
• Participate in ongoing analysis, forecasting, and review of project expenses.
• Participate in budget planning and realignments, as required.
• Ensure an in-depth awareness of operational issues in the context of Nigeria.
• Manage, train, and mentor key team members in the areas of administration, logistics, human resources, procurement, and IT.
• Serve as the primary liaison to all local vendors and subcontractors.
• Responsible for day-to-day management of subcontracts with local vendors.
• Provide timely and accurate reports on the location of staff and assets and maintain proper hard and soft copy files for each. Reports may be requested by HQ or donor.
• Responsible for program compliance with U.S. Government rules and regulations, and Creative policies and procedures.
• Support COP in all operations tasks and duties.
• Respond to requests from donor and supervisors as needed; and
• Perform other related duties as assigned. 

Minimum Required Education & Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Master of Business and/or Public Administration, or related relevant field; experience will be considered in lieu of master’s degree. Undergraduate degree required.
• At least 12+ years general work experience including 8+ years of progressive specific experience related to the position.
• Must have 5+ years of progressive experience managing and supervising groups and teams.
• Fluency in spoken and written English is required.
• Extensive experience in managing Procurement, Human Resources, Office Management, and IT teams on complex projects.
• Knowledge of basic operating procedures in high-risk environments.
• Experience in human resources management, including in Nigerian labor law, and managing expatriate staff work permits is preferred.
• Proficient oral and written communication skills in English.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capacity; and
• Previous experience working with USAID desired.