Operations Manager at TechnoServe

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Country Director, the Operations Manager is a dynamic and agile position that will play a key role in enabling implementation of project activities in an efficient and compliant manner while ensuring the effective use of resources for maximum impact.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Procurement

• Lead procurement planning and implement annual and biannual procurement plans and ensure that they are appropriate and in line with TechnoServe’s and donor requirements and policies.
• Prepare a range of documents, contracts, communications, directives, instructions, etc., relating to procurement operations.
• Manage all procurement processes for goods, services, and consulting, including reviewing Request for Proposals (RFPs) and tender documents.
• Verify compliance with products and services ordered.
• In collaboration with the Senior Operations coordinator ensure adequate training in procurement procedures for all project staff.

Operations Management

• Act as focal point person for all project operational activities (IT, Procurement, Logistics, Safety and Security) in coordination with the Senior Operations coordinator, Finance and HR.
• Ensure and plan for the efficient use of resources to deliver quality operations support to the project team.
• Develop forecasting tools to inform planning and operational decision-making.
• Provide proactive advice to the program team to ensure optimal operational systems while maintaining adherence to TechnoServe’s relevant policies (e.g., vehicle, travel, procurement, etc.)
• Assess and suggest improvements for the above operational activities.
• Identify gaps in knowledge and skills and provide training.
• Manage the Country Office team, including the Senior Operations Coordinator, Project Administrations, IT specialist, logistics teams, ensuring sound logistical arrangements are in place to support project implementation, including fleet and other resource management

Administration

• Manage procurement and set up of field office space, equipment, vehicles, and other items in compliance with TechnoServe and donor policies and regulations.
• Draft, negotiate, and review contracts (including service agreements, office leases, purchase orders, etc.), ensuring all required contractual terms and conditions are included and obtaining the best value for the project
• Facilitate logistics arrangements such as travel and fleet management.
• Perform administrative tasks to ensure TechnoServe adheres to local legal and statutory requirements as required.
• Support project event planning and logistics as needed.
• Work closely with the Senior Finance Specialist, to ensure reliable and accurate data is submitted.
• Work closely with the Senior Finance Specialist, to provide guidance to project staff to ensure compliance with statutory procurement and reporting and donor regulations to ensure zero unallowable costs

Security

• In collaboration with the Senior Operations coordinator, maintain a safety and security plan, as well as Safety and Security Operating Procedures for the Nigeria country office and ensure project staff and visitors are briefed and comply with all security protocols.
• Work with the Senior Operations coordinator to conduct regular reviews of security procedures and equipment, recommending areas of improvement in collaboration with the Nigeria country office staff and HQ experts.
• Ensure adherence of project activities and staff to the country safety and security plans

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business management, Economics, Supply chain management, Sociology or other related field plus 7 years of professional experience with increasing responsibilities related to procurement, Logistics, Human resources, Contractual management, Finance. Alternatively, a Master's degree with at least 5 years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with large United States government (USDA or USAID) and other donor funded projects.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks with competing deadlines.
• Strong sense of collegiality, integrity, resourcefulness, and accountability for results.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• An ability to think critically and elevate risks to management.
• A creative and entrepreneurial approach to resolving problems.
• Working knowledge and experience managing people and developing strong working relationships.
• Knowledge of generally-accepted accounting and procurement practices.
• Advanced-level knowledge of Microsoft Excel, and basic functional knowledge of field accounting software packages.