Managing Director at ziziafrique

REPORTS TO: Chairperson, ziziAfrique Board 

SUPERVISES: Finance and Administrative Officer and Research Associates 

• ziziAfrique is looking to recruit the Managing Director (MD) who will be responsible for providing strategic leadership to drive business growth, development, and overall success. The MD will focus on expanding the company’s market presence, increasing revenue and building long-term sustainability. This role requires strong leadership skills, a visionary approach, and the ability to foster innovation, strategic partnerships, and organizational development. Additionally, the MD will ensure governance meetings are held as scheduled and will be the link between management and the board. 
• Based in Nairobi, this position offers an exciting opportunity for a results-driven leader to shape the future growth, diversification and success of the company.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Develop and implement ziziAfrique’s long-term growth strategy in alignment with business goals and objectives.
  • Identify and evaluate new business opportunities, including market expansion, strategic partnerships, and diversification initiatives.
  • Monitor industry trends, emerging markets, and competitor activities to stay ahead in the market.

Business Development

• Lead the development of new business initiatives, partnerships, and revenue streams.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, investors, business partners, and regulators.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to promote visibility and growth.
• Lead the process of rebranding of the company to ensure that the brand proposition matches the strategy, clients’ expectations and market competitiveness

Financial Management & Growth

• Drive revenue growth by identifying market opportunities.
• Oversee financial planning, including budgeting, forecasting, investment and resource allocation to ensure profitability and long-term financial health.
• Collaborate with the Finance & Admin Officer and other executives to establish performance metrics and financial goals.
• Prevent conflicts of interest in financial dealings and foster a corporate culture that prioritizes ethical financial practices.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee the development and execution of business operations to ensure efficiency, productivity and scalability.
• Implement best practices in operational management to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
• Identify and implement financial technologies that improve reporting, analysis and decision-making.
• Leverage automation and artificial intelligence to streamline financial processes and reduce costs.
• Ensure data security and financial system integrity through advanced technological solutions and stay updated with emerging financial technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Talent Development & Safeguarding

• Cultivate a high-performance culture focused on innovation, accountability, and continuous development.
• Provide mentorship and development opportunities for senior leaders and key talent.
• Ensure the company is adequately staffed to support business growth and development initiatives.
• Ensure that a Safeguarding Policy that is clear and easily understood is in place. 
• Ensure safe recruitment, induction and training of all staff on Safeguarding purpose and procedures
• Create a workplace culture that is committed to Safeguarding and a culture that unleashes potential of workers and retains talent

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure the company complies with all legal, regulatory, and corporate governance requirements.
• Report regularly to the Board of Directors on business performance, strategic initiatives, and growth progress.

Qualifications and Requirements 

• At Least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Finance, or a related field (MBA or equivalent preferred).
• At least 4 years’ experience managing an organization with:
• Proven experience as a CEO, General Manager or senior executive, preferably in a growth-focused organization.
• Strong background in business development, market expansion, and strategic planning.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Experience managing financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and profitability improvement.
• Ability to nurture strategic partnerships and stakeholder relationships.
• Strong understanding of market dynamics, emerging trends, and business innovation.
• Grounding in research and consultancy, preferably in education, health or other sectors

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Revenue growth and profitability targets achieved.
• Successful execution of strategic business initiatives and expansion plans.
• Customer acquisition, retention, and satisfaction rates.
• Strength of industry partnerships and business development outcomes.
• Organizational performance and talent development metrics.
• Compliance with regulatory requirements.