Remote Campus Manager at Turkana Basin Institute

Position Overview: 

• We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Remote Campus Manager to oversee and manage a complex, remote campus with a large permanent staff in residence. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing remote operations, be well-versed in logistics and procurement processes, and possess excellent people management skills. They must have a strong understanding of service delivery principles for foreign guests, be adept at community engagement, and demonstrate resilience in dealing with extended periods on-site. This position requires a strategic thinker with at least 10 years of experience in a similar role.

Key Responsibilities:                                                                                                         

Campus Operations Management:

• Oversee daily operations of the remote campus, ensuring seamless functionality and service delivery.
• Manage a large, permanent staff in residence, fostering a productive and supportive work environment.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, safety protocols, and local regulations.

Logistics and Procurement:

• Develop and implement efficient logistics and procurement strategies to support campus operations.
• Oversee the sourcing, purchasing, and delivery of goods and services required for campus sustainability.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure timely replenishment of supplies.

Staffing and People Management:

• Design and implement staffing rosters to optimize efficiency and control overtime.
• Provide leadership, training, and mentorship to staff, fostering professional growth and high morale.
• Address employee concerns and mediate conflicts to maintain a harmonious work environment.

Service Delivery for Local and International Guests:

• Ensure the highest standards of hospitality and service delivery for foreign guests.
• Coordinate with relevant departments to address guest needs and feedback promptly.
• Maintain a welcoming and culturally sensitive environment for diverse visitors.

Community Engagement:

• Act as a liaison between the campus and the local community, fostering positive relationships.
• Engage with community leaders and stakeholders in a sensitive and respectful manner.
• Implement initiatives that promote mutual understanding and cooperation.

Collaboration with Leadership:

• Work closely with the support office and senior leadership to align campus operations with organizational goals.
• Provide regular reports on campus performance, challenges, and opportunities.
• Participate in strategic planning and decision-making processes.

Adaptability to Remote Environment:

• Demonstrate resilience and adaptability to long periods of residence on-site.
• Develop contingency plans to address challenges specific to remote operations.
• Promote a culture of self-sufficiency and teamwork among staff.

Budgetary Planning and Control:

• Work with FOM in preparation of annual budgets for the campus operations/ & CAPEX.
• Support in implementation and compliance of approved budgets including performance tracking with support of Finance and Procurement.
• Develop and implement measures to control stock movement, asset management among others.
• Ensure timely accountability of Campus imprest and those extended to direct reports.
• Support implementation of financial controls and measures on the use of the Navision Serenic system for operational efficiency.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A bachelor’s degree or diploma, preferably in Sales/ Marketing/Business Management.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in a similar role, preferably managing complex remote campuses.
• Extensive knowledge of logistics and procurement processes.
• Strong people management skills with a proven ability to lead and inspire teams.
• Solid understanding of service delivery principles, particularly for foreign guests.
• Experience in community engagement, with a track record of fostering positive relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to design and manage efficient staffing rosters.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of cultural sensitivity and emotional intelligence.
• Resilient, resourceful, and capable of thriving in remote and challenging environments.
• A working knowledge of the ERP system.  The use of Microsoft Navision will be an added advantage.

Work Environment:

• This role requires long periods of residence on-site at the remote campus.
• The position involves regular interaction with diverse teams, foreign guests, and the local community.
• Candidates must be prepared to handle the physical and emotional demands of remote work.