Head of Facility Management (Operations) at Museum of West African Art

Job Overview

• We seek a detail-oriented professional passionate about ensuring smooth operational functions within a dynamic cultural environment.
• The Head of Operations will oversee the efficient management of the museum’s facilities, utilities, and security while also supporting event logistics and travel coordination. 
• This role is essential to ensure the seamless functioning of the museum’s physical and operational infrastructure, and to maintain a safe, efficient, and well-managed environment for staff, visitors, and collections.

Key Responsibilities
Facilities & Utilities Management:

• Oversee the maintenance and functionality of museum buildings, conservation labs, exhibition spaces, and office areas.
• Manage utility services, including electricity, water, and HVAC systems, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
• Establish and oversee maintenance protocols withMEP suppliers, ensuring all servicing equipment is up to date.
• Coordinate with thecollections management teamto regulate climatic controls and generate facility reports in adherence to object care regimes and loan agreements.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and operational standards.

Security, Safety & Risk Management:

• Supervise security teams and implement protocols to protect assets, staff, and visitors.
• Develop emergency preparedness plans, including evacuation and disaster response procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure adherence to regulatory compliance.
• Review and select appropriatebuilding insurance providersto ensure adequate coverage for facilities and assets.

Events & Travel Support:

• Oversee the logistics for exhibitions, conferences, artist residencies, and public programs, working with the Travel & Logistics Manager, project leads and external vendors
• Ensure venue readiness, vendor coordination, and on-site operational support.
• Oversee domestic and international travel arrangements for staff, researchers, and visiting guests.
• Oversee the travel and events management team, ensuring coordination, early risk identification and management, troubleshooting and staff development

Vendor & Contractor Management:

• Manage contracts and relationships with service providers, including facility maintenance, cleaning, and security firms.
• Negotiate service agreements to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Monitor contractor performance and enforce institutional standards.

Compliance, Budget Oversight & Staff Training:

• Ensure all operations align with regulatory and legal requirements.
• Manage operational budgets, optimize resource allocation, and improve cost efficiency.
• Oversee procurement processes and asset management.
• Develop and enforcebuilding management standards and procedures, including training staff on best practices, with support from the HR team.

Key Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s or postgraduate Degree in Engineering, Facility Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in facility management and/or operations, preferably within a cultural institution, university, corporate services or hospitality sector.
• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills with experience managing teams and external vendors.
• Good knowledge of health, safety, and security protocols.
• Excellent vendor negotiation and contractor management skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Why Join Us?

• Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials.
• This is a unique opportunity to shape the operational backbone of a groundbreaking cultural and research institution. 
• If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for cultural heritage and operational excellence, we invite you to be part of our mission.