Head of Operations

 Pharo Foundation

Pharo Foundation is a mission-driven, impact-oriented organization working to build a vibrant, productive, and self-reliant Africa. Our development efforts are focused on three core pillars:

• Education – Providing access to high-quality, affordable education that equips students for success in a rapidly changing world.
• Water – Ensuring that communities across Africa have access to clean, safe, and affordable water.
• Productivity – Removing barriers to employment and increasing economic opportunity for individuals and families.

Our for-profit arm, Pharo Ventures, operates sustainable businesses across Ethiopia and Somaliland to drive job creation and economic growth. With over 700 employees across Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Somaliland, Pharo Foundation is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, with a liaison office in London, UK.

About the Role

We are looking for an exceptional Head of Operations to join our team in Addis Ababa. This senior leadership role will drive operational excellence across supply chain, facilities, IT, and administration while supporting high-impact programs.

This role serves both the non-profit and for-profit wings of our organization—Pharo Foundation and Pharo Ventures—helping ensure strong systems and efficient operations across both.

• Location: Addis Ababa (with travel to project areas)
• Role: Head of Operations
•  Impact: Supporting large-scale programs that make a real difference

If you are an experienced operations leader ready for a challenging and rewarding opportunity, or know someone who might be a great fit, please apply or reach out.

Duties and Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with the Foundation’s overall mission and goals in Ethiopia.
• Drive continuous improvement across all operational functions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery.
• Collaborate closely with programme leads and all operating units to ensure Seamless and cost effective support.
• Serve as a key advisor to the Country Director on all operational matters.
• Be a culture champion and drive operational excellence across all areas of operations.

Partnership Development and Stakeholder Engagement

• Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, private sector actors, and community organisations to strengthen operational capacity and programme delivery.
• Represent the Foundation in relevant forums, working groups, and coordination meetings with partners and stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for collaboration and resource sharing that enhance operational effectiveness and programmatic impact.
• Work closely with programme teams to ensure partner relationships are effectively managed and leveraged.

Team Leadership and Development

• Manage your team in line with Pharo’s management principles and achieve high results across all functions.
• Provide strong leadership, mentorship, and guidance to the Supply Chain Managers, Facilities Manager, and IT Manager.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning within the operations team.
• Set clear performance objectives, conduct regular reviews, and support professional development across the team.

Supply Chain Management

• Oversee procurement, inventory management, and logistics to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods and services.
• Ensure compliance with organisational policies and donor regulations in all supply chain activities.
• Strengthen supplier relationships and drive value-for-money in all procurement processes.

Facilities Management

• Oversee the management and maintenance of Foundation facilities to ensure safe, functional, and well-maintained work environments.
• Coordinate office planning, space management, and any infrastructure projects as needed.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards across all facilities.

IT Management

• Provide strategic oversight of IT systems and infrastructure to support organisational needs.
• Work closely with the IT Manager to ensure reliable, secure, and up-to-date technology solutions.
• Support digital transformation initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and programme delivery.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all operational activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies in collaboration with the Country Director.
• Support internal and external audits by ensuring accurate documentation and adherence to procedures.

Budget and Resource Management

• Support the development and monitoring of operational budgets.
• Ensure efficient use of resources and alignment with organisational financial goals.
• Track and report on operational expenditure, identifying opportunities for cost savings.

Qualifications

• Master’s or bachelor’s degree in business administration, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• 10+ years of professional experience, with 5+ years in senior operations leadership.
• Strong experience in supply chain, facilities, IT, and administrative operations management.
• Proven team leadership, strategic planning, and budget management skills.
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders and partners in complex organizations.