Chief Executive Officer

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Implementation: Leading the implementation of the new 5-year strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the Board's vision and mission.
• Program Development and Impact: Overseeing the development, implementation, and evaluation of impactful programs that empower Nigerian entrepreneurs, particularly small and growing businesses (SGBs).
• Resource Mobilization: Securing the financial and human resources required to support the organization's programs and operations.
• Team Leadership and Management: Providing effective leadership and mentorship to a team of over 40 staff members, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders including donors, government agencies, development partners, the private sector, and the public.
• Fundraising and Resource Development: Leading fundraising efforts to secure the resources needed to achieve the organization's objectives.
• Financial Management and Oversight: Ensuring sound financial management practices and adherence to best practices in non-profit governance.
• Advocacy and Visibility: Serving as a vocal advocate for the organization and the critical role it plays in fostering entrepreneurship nationally and regionally. This includes engaging in policy advocacy to create an enabling environment for SGBs.
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Leading the exploration of innovative approaches and methodologies to enhance the organization's program effectiveness and impact.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior leadership role. Sectoral experience and leadership in the following sectors are preferred: nonprofit, social impact, social enterprise, startup, entrepreneurship and consulting.
• Demonstrated experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating social innovation programs including those that empower young people, entrepreneurs and innovators.
• Strong understanding of the local and regional business landscape and the challenges and opportunities faced by SGBs.
• Proven track record of success in resource mobilization, fundraising, and financial management.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and lead a diverse team of employees and 1,200+ volunteers.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, fostering collaboration and building strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage complex operations and ensure efficient program delivery.
• Strategic thinker with a strong understanding of the non-profit sector and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Ability to think critically and creatively to identify innovative solutions and approaches.
• Passion for social innovation and a strong belief in the potential of entrepreneurship to accelerate socio-economic growth and development.
• The ability to build strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, donors, private sector leaders, and the public, is crucial.
• Very strong financial acumen and understanding of financial metrics in the nonprofit space.
• Experience and interest in policy advocacy and the ability to champion policy changes that create a more supportive environment for entrepreneurship nationally and regionally.
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills, comfortable representing the organization in various settings.
• Strong work ethic and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Location: Lagos, Nigeria