Background:
Creative Associates International is a dynamic, fast-growing global development firm that specializes in education, economic growth, democratic institutions and stabilization. Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has a field presence in more than 15 countries with a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, among others. Since its founding in 1977, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike.
Position Summary:
Creative Associates seeks an Operations Manager for an upcoming education project in Nigeria, which seeks to improve student access to school and literacy outcomes in a language they use and understand in Grades 1-3 in select areas of Nigeria, equitably and sustainably. The Operations Manager is responsible for the management of human resources, local procurement, and information technology of the program in a fluid and complex operational environment.
Reporting & Supervision:
This Operations Manager reports to the Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP).
Primary Responsibilities:
- Ensure streamlined operations systems in line with Creative and donor rules and regulations;
- Provide administrative and logistical support to the portfolio of programs;
- Ensure an in-depth awareness of operational issues in the context of Nigeria;
- Streamline and maintain procurement processes to meet grant deliverables and milestones;
- Serve as the primary liaison to all vendors and subcontractors;
- Responsible for day to day management of subcontracts with international vendors;
- Serve as primary liaison for Creative HQ on international subcontractor issues;
- Manage and oversee staff responsible for arranging travel and logistics for staff and project equipment and inventory;
- Provide timely and accurate reports on 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 Task Order, U.S. Government rules and regulations, and Creative policies and procedures;
- Support DCOP in all operations tasks and duties;
- Manage, train, and mentor key team members in the areas of administration, logistics, human resources, procurement, budgeting and finance; and
- Respond to requests from donor and supervisors as needed.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- At least five (5) years of relevant work experience, including experience with a Contractor or international NGO managing an office or program;
- At least four (4) years of experience supervising complex, high-speed, and challenging field operations in developing countries;
- Familiarity with or have experience in education-type projects;
- Experience with operations, logistics and subcontracts;
- Knowledge of basic operating procedures in high-risk environments;
- Experience in Sub-Saharan Africa;
- Proficient oral and written communication skills in English and local languages;
- Strong analytical capacity; and
- Previous experience working with USAID desired.
Local nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.