Operations Manager

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.