Head of Operations at Museum of West African Art

• 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 with MEP suppliers, ensuring all servicing equipment is up to date.
• Coordinate with the collections management team to 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 appropriate building insurance providers to ensure adequate coverage for facilities and assets.

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 enforce building 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.