Director of Operations

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, driven by the belief that a better world is possible. The organization partners with communities to implement bold solutions that help individuals overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. Mercy Corps Nigeria focuses on various programs aimed at creating productive, secure, and just communities, particularly in the northern regions of Nigeria, including economic development, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, empowerment of adolescent girls and boys, financial resilience, conflict mitigation, and humanitarian response. The organization emphasizes community engagement, inclusive development, and collaboration with local governments, the private sector, and civil society actors.

Job Overview:
The Director of Operations plays a crucial role in the senior management team of Mercy Corps Nigeria, reporting directly to the Country Director. This position is responsible for overseeing all operational functions across the organization's offices in Nigeria, which includes procurement, logistics, asset management, fleet management, and warehousing. The Director of Operations is tasked with enhancing operational performance and efficiency by developing staff capacity and establishing effective systems. This role also involves ensuring that managerial processes, resources, and infrastructure are adequately in place to support the organization's mission. The position requires travel to various field offices, making it essential for the Director to have a strong presence in the operational landscape of Nigeria.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Operations will be responsible for several key areas:

• Strategy & Vision: Recognizing opportunities for innovative actions, setting the direction for the program support department, and collaborating with the Country Director and senior management to support program growth.
• Influence & Representation: Building and managing partnerships with stakeholders, ensuring effective communication to meet program targets and donor obligations.
• Operational Management: Integrating program support systems across all offices, ensuring compliance with internal and donor policies, overseeing supply pipelines, and managing fleet operations.
• Team Management: Leading program support teams, fostering a respectful work environment, and providing constructive feedback to team members.
• Finance & Compliance Management: Ensuring compliance with donor regulations and managing technical consultants.
• Security: Adhering to security procedures as determined by country leadership.
• Organizational Learning: Committing to learning activities that benefit both the organization and individual team members.
• Safeguarding Responsibilities: Integrating safeguarding practices into work and encouraging open communication regarding concerns.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BA/BS degree in a relevant field and have a minimum of 7 years of experience in managing administration, procurement, logistics, and human resource systems, preferably within NGOs or similar organizations. A demonstrated understanding of complex operations in challenging environments is essential. Candidates should exhibit strong attention to detail, the ability to follow procedures, meet deadlines, and work independently as well as collaboratively. Familiarity with Mercy Corps systems, USAID regulations, and excellent negotiation and representation skills are highly desirable. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and effective verbal and written communication skills in English are required. The ability to work effectively with a diverse team in a sensitive environment is also crucial.

Educational Background:
A BA/BS degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should ideally be complemented by practical experience in the relevant sectors, particularly in operational management within NGOs or similar organizations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, particularly in setting up and managing administration, procurement, logistics, and human resource systems. Candidates should have a proven track record of supporting complex operations in challenging environments, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and cooperatively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not specified as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Maiduguri and requires up to 50% travel to field locations, including areas with high security risks. The living conditions in Maiduguri are generally secure, with access to housing, healthcare, water, electricity, and consumer goods. Team members are expected to conduct themselves professionally and adhere to local laws and Mercy Corps policies at all times. The organization promotes ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding and ethical practices, ensuring a respectful and dignified environment for all individuals involved.