FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Our staff includes experts in health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research and technology — creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today's interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories. We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of: Project Operations Manager
Description:
The Project Operations Manager is responsible for the operational and logistical support required for the implementation of the Program for Educational Development of Equatorial Guinea (PRODEGE), ensuring effective management and operations so that the project meets the goals of the annual work plan. A public-private partnership between the government of Equatorial Guinea and Hess Corporation, PRODEGE is a five- year $50 million education project working to improve the quality of primary and secondary education. It is currently in the second year of five years of implementation. The Senior Operations Manager will be based in Bata, Equatorial Guinea, and reports to the Associate Director for Administration and Finance.
The Project Operations Manager works closely with the Operations Business Manager and/or Finance Manager to ensure financial, administrative, contractual, logistical efficiency and compliance. The Project Operations Manager serves as a liaison between staff and the organization’s administrative and enterprise services to maintain the smooth operations of headquarter and field offices.
Job Summary / Responsibilities:
Coordinates with the technical team on PRODEGE activities, such as large-scale teacher training programs to 2,500 teachers located in all 16 districts of the country. Develops and maintains systems and standards for supporting technical activities by ensuring proper utilization of requisition templates and planning documents, protocols, and procedures.
- Supervises approximately 26 personnel working in logistics, purchasing, IT, maintenance, inventory management and security in the Bata and Malabo offices.
- Ensures that internal administrative systems and communications are effective; provides for staff development and management training and coaching; and establishes and maintains a culture of collegiality and excellence.
- Designs and implements systems and procedures following FHI360 standards adapted to handle specific country constraints and conditions, yet ensuring effective internal controls, compliance and minimizing risks.
- Continually revises and updates systems and policies to streamline future work and troubleshoots everyday operational issues.
- Identifies opportunities for operational improvement, cost reduction and systems enhancement
- In coordination with the Associate Director for Administration and Finance, monitors local staff on procurement and logistics procedures and policies to ensure compliance with FHI 360 and clients’ regulations and requirements.
- Develops and maintains project’s procurement plan including local and international procurement. Manages the process of conducting due diligence on local service providers and vendors to ensure the project receives cost-effective and quality goods and services.
- Manages in-country provisions for international consultants and visitors including lodging, transportation, and other logistical arrangements, as well as providing an orientation upon arrival.
- Monitors security conditions and maintains up-to-date security plans in coordination with Executive Director and FHI 360 Security Advisor. Helps resolve security issues and provides proactive solutions for mitigating risk and preventing future security incidents from occurring. Serves as main point of contact with Hess security manager in Equatorial Guinea.
- Manages local property and contracts, including office, housing and storage space leases as well as other local subcontract agreements and services contracts.
- Manages general services of both Bata and Malabo offices, including maintenance, repairs, Internet and telephone services, and support for special events.
- Coordinates regular communications with home office team regarding travel logistics, international procurement, and security.
Supervision:
This position will supervise and build the capacity of a local operations team in Malabo and Bata offices including: Procurement, Logistics, IT support, Operations Aides, Security and General Services Assistants. The Senior Operations Manager will work closely under the Associate Director for Administration and Finance and in coordination with the Program Executive Director.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree or its International Equivalent - Business, Management, Marketing, and Related. Masters degree in related field desirable.
- At least 8 year(s) of relevant experience in international project operations and/or management required.
- Knowledge of procurement, property and equipment management, and security standards and procedures for major international projects or organizations. Knowledge of FHI 360 polices and procedures desirable.
- Strong cross-cultural communication skills and ability to interact with diverse groups, including: clients, local and international staff, local vendors.
- Ability to build local capacity in different aspects of program operations and management.
- Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing priorities.
- Fluency in Spanish and English required, French desirable
- Experience supporting operations and/or program management of social development projects in Africa, Latin America or Asia with demonstrated level of responsibility and oversight.
- Experience supervising staff and building capacity in project operations and program management.
- Ability to work under pressure and as part of a team to solve issues related to project implementation, security and safety of personnel, and property and asset management.
- Flexibility to be available during late hours and weekends to respond to emerging needs.
This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.
We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefit package. Please click here to visit FHI 360's Career Center for a list of all open positions.
FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. FHI 360 is committed to providing equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran with respect to policies, programs, or activities.
