Chief Operating Officer at Access Afya

Role Description

We are looking for a dynamic and strategic Operations Director who will oversee growth of the network and operations across the organisation, ensuring that business objectives are met efficiently and effectively. They will be responsible for formulating strategies to enhance operational growth, efficiency, optimising processes, managing budgets, and leading the cross functional team to drive continuous improvement. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills, capable of aligning operational goals with the company's mission and long-term growth objectives.

What you will do

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimise organisation performance and ensure sustainable growth
• Set clear goals for the department’s success, aligning with Access Afya’s mission to provide high-quality healthcare access to low-income communities.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on expansion plans across Kenya and new regions.

Growth and Overall Operations Management

• Lead the development of comprehensive strategies for expanding the franchise network, supporting franchisee acquisition, and driving sustainable growth.
• Ensure that the operations across all franchise locations meet company standards for quality, patient experience, and financial performance.
• Develop and execute business plans that align with Access Afya's strategic goals and position the company for future growth.

Process Optimization and Quality Control

• Lead initiatives to improve operational processes, reduce costs, and increase efficiency within the organisation.
• Develop and enforce quality control measures to maintain high standards in patient care and operational practices.
• Leverage digital health solutions and data analytics to streamline clinic workflows and enhance patient experience.

Team Management and Collaboration

• Lead and mentor cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Promote alignment across departments, ensuring that all team members are working toward shared goals and performance benchmarks.
• Oversee training and development programs to enhance team capabilities
• Hire, train, and develop high-performing teams in alignment with company culture and values
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, encouraging employee engagement and growth.
• Set performance expectations and conduct regular evaluations to support staff development.

Compliance and Quality Assurance

• Develop and enforce compliance and quality assurance standards across the franchise network, ensuring adherence to regulatory and safety requirements.
• Conduct regular audits and assessments to maintain quality control and address any operational or compliance gaps.
• Lead initiatives to continuously improve care quality and patient safety throughout the network.

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Build and maintain partnerships with key stakeholders, including local government bodies, community organizations, and healthcare providers.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for strategic alliances to enhance Access Afya’s operational capabilities.
• Represent Access Afya at industry events, conferences, and community engagements, promoting our mission and impact

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all clinics operate in full compliance with local regulations and standards for healthcare delivery.
• Identify and manage risks associated with franchise operations, developing policies to mitigate potential issues.
• Maintain relationships with regulatory bodies and stakeholders to stay informed on compliance requirements and industry standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Healthcare Management, or a related field; MBA or relevant master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in developing and implementing operational strategies, within the healthcare, franchising, retail or social impact sectors.
• Proven experience in leading large-scale, multi-site operations with a focus on quality improvement and process optimization.
• Strong strategic planning skills and a track record of driving operational success in complex, high-growth environments.
• Familiarity with tech-enabled healthcare solutions is a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Passion for social impact and commitment to Access Afya’s mission to expand healthcare access in underserved communities.

Why Join Access Afya?

• Be a part of a mission-driven company that is dedicated to transforming healthcare for underserved populations.
• Opportunity to lead and innovate in a rapidly growing, tech-enabled healthcare organization.
• Contribute to impactful work that touches lives and improves healthcare access across Kenya and beyond.