Only short-listed applicants will be contacted. Due to the urgency of this position, applications will be short-listed regularly, and we may offer this post before the closing date.
Please note that this is an unaccompanied position
Background
The Health Support Organisation (THESO) is a South Sudanese-based 501 (C) (3) registered non-profit organisation dedicated to saving lives and relieving suffering through evidenced value-based humanitarian and developmental programs.
For over 15 years, THESO has been a beacon of hope, transforming lives in developing countries through evidence-based, sustainable humanitarian and development programs. We offer a strategic platform for donors to invest in impactful initiatives across health, education, WASH, nutrition, and livelihoods because we see the strength and resilience of our beneficiaries. We believe in their potential and strive to create a world where they can access the essentials for a dignified and prosperous life. Partnering with THESO means collaborating with a trusted, results-oriented organisation that delivers lasting change for millions through our diverse programs in health, education, WASH, and more, we empower beneficiaries with the tools and opportunities they need to build a brighter future for them. Our comprehensive expertise in health, education, WASH, and more, combined with our deep understanding of local contexts, creates fertile ground for innovative partnerships that deliver transformative impact.
THESO stands as a committed partner in achieving national development goals as we stand beside governments and communities on their journey towards self-sufficiency and dignity. We align our programs with government priorities, providing evidence-based, culturally sensitive interventions that complement and strengthen existing systems. Our expertise in key areas like health, education, WASH, and food security empowers communities and contributes to sustainable economic growth.
At THESO, you’re not just an employee, you’re a changemaker. You’re part of a dedicated team driven by a shared passion: to alleviate suffering and empower communities. We offer a dynamic and fulfilling work environment where your expertise and talent make a tangible difference in the lives of millions. Make a difference by volunteering your time and skills with THESO and experience the transformational power of hands-on service. Whether you’re a medical professional, educator, engineer, or simply someone with a generous heart, your contribution counts. We offer diverse volunteer opportunities across various sectors, allowing you to connect with communities, share your knowledge, and be a catalyst for positive change. Let’s work together to build a brighter future by co-creating a future where no community is left behind, and where health, education, and dignity are fundamental rights for all.
THESO is seeking to recruit an Operations Director for its South Sudan program to be based in its Operations Office in Juba working closely with the administrative office in Washington DC.
Position Summary:
THESO is looking for a mission-oriented, strategic leader with experience managing finance and operations in a high-growth organisation. Reporting to the CE and CDs, the Operations Director will be responsible for overseeing overall organisational operations, including finance, human resources, administration, procurement, business planning, legal, security, and information technology for the Head Office, Administrative Office, and Country Program Teams.
Internally, the Operations Director will also serve as a strategic and thought partner to the CE and as a critical member of the senior management team (SMT) responsible for strategic decision-making. The Operations Director will work closely with the CE, CDs, and the leadership senior management team to strengthen overall organisational capacity, impact, influence, and policy efforts.
The position holder must demonstrate leadership in oversight support, capacity building, high-quality compliance, implementation of THESO Vision 2030 and annual business plan, analytical and best forecasting, driving strategic transformation, including risk management, contributing to the growth strategy through competitive proposal budgeting, efficient business models and cost base, driving an ambitious transformation agenda-finance, HR, risk management, procurement, administration, systems development, including technology use, business process and improvements across the organisation.
This position is an exciting opportunity for an individual with a strong finance and operations background to help strengthen and expand a program model with the potential to scale both in the African region and globally. While closely working with country programs, affiliates, and platform functions, s/he will serve as the primary resource for financial management, Administration, HR, and Compliance.
Responsibilities
Finance
- Oversee and lead annual budgeting and planning process in conjunction with the CE, CDs, and SMT; monitor progress and keep SMT abreast of the organization’s financial status.
- Manage organisational cash flow and forecasting.
- Provide overall financial oversight and monitoring, including the development and implementation of sound fiscal management practices and internal controls.
- Manage and oversee monthly accounting processes, including bookkeeping, payroll management, invoicing, and financial tracking of restricted grants. In this capacity, manage relationships with key external vendors, partners, and donors.
- Implement a robust contracts management and financial management/ reporting system; ensure that the contract billing and collection schedule is adhered to and that financial data and cash flow are steady and support operational requirements.
- Analyze and present financial reports in an accurate and timely manner; develop financial reporting materials for all donor segments and oversee all financial, project/program, and grants accounting.
- Coordinate, lead, and timely complete the annual external audit process and report; liaise with external auditors and the finance committee of the board of directors.
- Provide support to the finance committee on the Board of Directors.
Human Resources
- Manage and oversee THESO’s human resources (HR) functions, including recruitment and hiring; benefits administration and oversight; new employee orientation, timely completion of annual staff performance assessment process, and employee retention strategies.
- Develop THESO’s human resources capacity as the organisation scales, enhancing professional development, compensation and benefits, performance evaluation, workforce development, succession planning, training, and recruiting.
- Ensure that recruiting processes are consistent and streamlined.
- Establish and manage a comprehensive training program to educate employees regarding staff policies and procedures.
- Work closely and transparently with all external partners, including third-party vendors, consultants, partners, and donors. Government and auditors.
Information Technology
- Oversee THESO’s outsourced, cloud-based IT partner to ensure ongoing maintenance and quality of IT systems and infrastructure and to monitor performance against contract.
- Manage and track organisational needs for computer hardware and software, procuring new equipment as needed.
- Collaborate with CE, and CDs to ensure successful implementation, and ongoing management, of the ERP system and platform for overall THESO end-to-end business workflow management, including logistics, fundraising, program, and finance.
Legal
- Oversee risk management and legal activities, including business insurance; memorandums of understandings; contracts; leases, and other legal documents and agreements.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including respective Government
Strategy and Business Development
- Work in partnership with CE, CDs, and SMT to implement new strategic initiatives in response to an increasing demand for THESO’s services.
- Work in partnership with CE, CDs, and SMT to achieve THESO Vision 2030, including implementing multiyear corporate strategy, country strategic plans, and annual business plan; Provide financial and operational input for all strategic planning processes.
- Represent THESO with key stakeholders, including funders, the media, government, academic institutions, community organisations, and volunteers.
Systems and Processes (ERP)–
- Contribute to the improvement of ERP system, tools, templates, and off-system applications.
- Lead on ERP business support training for country teams – this includes providing training and capacity.
- Take the lead in building country teams, policies, procedures, and support systems for instance.
Security
- Develop and implement standard security protocols to ensure the security of assets and staff.
General
- Oversee general office management functions to ensure effective, high-quality work environment and efficient, daily operations of physical plant and equipment.
- Oversee all administrative functions as well as facilities to ensure efficient and consistent operations as the organisation scales.
Personal Qualities:
- Strategic Thinking
- Results focus
- Change Leadership
- Team Leadership
- People Management
Key Result Areas
- Multiyear corporate strategy, Country Strategic Plan, and annual business plans in regard to core roles and responsibilities
- Planning and implementation of HR, Finance, and Administration Strategies
- Timeliness, regularity, and accuracy in reporting
- Team development
- Employee/Talent development
Key Relationships
- Directors, Financial Institutions, implementing partners, donors, Government, non-profit organisations
- Partners, Government authorities.
Qualifications, experience, and skills
- ACCA/CPA or equivalent is a priority
- Resources Management and/or organisational development.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA), Accounting or Finance
- A minimum of 10 years of experience in financial management, of programs with an annual budget of at least $25 Million
- 7 years in a senior managerial role – with specific proof handling HR, Procurement, Finance, and Administration processes
- High Proficiency in computer skills, financial software, and reporting systems (Aplos, SAGE, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, and Access) communication packages and MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Significant experience in financial monitoring, budgeting systems, and internal controls.
- Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are necessary along with the capacity to
- identify and articulate potential problems and provide possible solutions in a concise and clear manner.
- Experience in working with bilateral, and multilateral donors, international development partners, international nongovernmental organisations (INGOs), and donors is an asset.
- Experience working with ethnically diverse communities, and nationalities and with projects implementing gender mainstreaming strategies.
- Demonstrate high-level written and verbal communication skills in English, Arabic, and French
- Experience developing and managing strong financial and operational systems in a high-growth environment. We also seek an effective leader who can motivate, inspire, and develop a committed and diverse team. Key qualifications are enumerated below.
- Proven track record in organisational budgeting and financial management. Experience with and understanding of general accounting, grant tracking, payroll management, human resources, and general business systems and functions. Demonstrated success in developing and monitoring financial systems.
- Proven track record in developing and managing operational systems in a high-growth organisation; strong project management skills.
- Tireless attention to detail and ability to complete work with the highest level of accuracy, efficiency, and quality.
- Ability to work in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced environment. Strong work ethic, flexible, and able to multi-task. Ability to synthesize data, make decisions, and communicate priorities to staff. Demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities, executing multiple tasks, and achieving objectives.
- Unwavering focus on delivering high-quality, data-driven results. Committed to innovation, excellence, and entrepreneurship.
- Ability to think strategically and connect strong execution to broader strategic priorities and objectives.
- Exceptional capacity for managing and leading people from diverse backgrounds. Committed to investing in and developing staff and positioning them to succeed. Self-directed, positive, energetic, flexible, compassionate, collaborative, and team-oriented individual.
- Integrity, compassion, sense of humor, mission-oriented, and commitment to excellence.
Compensation
The Operations Director position is an outstanding opportunity to join a high-growth, mission-driven organisation. THESO offers a competitive compensation package including salary, vacation, and other benefits.
How to apply
How to Apply
Interested applicants should send her/his CV with a cover letter and supporting documents addressed to the Operations Director, The Health Support Organisation (THESO). Email: hr@theso.org copying info@theso.org
THESO is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
NB: Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted for interviews.