Senior Manager - Ignite.E

Ignite.E is focused on developing, experimenting, and sharing new models and best practices to empower the next generation of African entrepreneurs. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Manager to join our dynamic team. As a Senior Manager for Ignite.E, you will play an essential role in effectively managing the company's operations. The Senior Manager at Ignite.E is a pivotal leadership role, functioning as the operational head, with responsibilities for managing the overall operations of Ignite.E, its programs, and its personnel. The Senior Manager will report directly to the Board of Directors, ensuring that Ignite.E, as an association, remains fully aligned with its mission to promote youth entrepreneurship and employment across Francophone Africa. This role requires a dynamic leader with a deep understanding of the entrepreneurship ecosystem, strong strategic planning skills, and the ability to lead a high-performing team.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS ROLE:

Ignite.E operates as an association with a unique governance structure led by a dedicated Board of Directors. This Board not only shapes the organization's vision but also plays a hands-on role in guiding its strategic direction. The Senior Manager in this role will work closely with the Board, executing the strategic initiatives and managing day-to-day operations in alignment with the Board's directives.

Strategic Leadership

  • Lead the implementation of Ignite.E's strategic roadmap, ensuring it aligns with the organization's mission and goals as set by the Board of Directors. Regularly assess progress and make necessary adjustments to keep everything on track.

  • Prioritize achieving clear objectives and measurable outcomes that align with the organization's strategic priorities, while providing regular updates to the Board on progress.

  • Constantly explore opportunities to refine operations, enhance program delivery, and boost the overall impact of Ignite.E's initiatives.

Program and Operations Management

  • Oversee and coordinate Ignite.E's diverse programs, ensuring they are executed to meet strategic goals with precision and the appropriate staffing.

  • Lead the optimization of operational processes, from logistics to financial management and compliance, to guarantee smooth and effective program execution.

  • Supervise budgeting, manage cash flow, and ensure accurate financial reporting. Collaborate with accounting teams to maintain rigorous adherence to tax regulations and financial best practices.

  • Ensure all Ignite.E's activities comply with legal and regulatory standards, managing contracts, and overseeing audits to uphold organizational integrity.

Team Leadership

  • Recruit, mentor, and lead a dedicated team of Program Senior Managers and Managers who are deeply committed to Ignite.E's mission. Implement strategic staffing plans, identifying key recruitment priorities.

  • Facilitate continuous learning and development for team members, empowering them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their roles.

Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement

  • Cultivate and sustain robust relationships with partner institutions and key stakeholders, ensuring that Ignite.E's initiatives receive the necessary support and remain viable.

  • Collaborate with the CEO and other leaders to design and implement strategies for fundraising and resource mobilization, securing Ignite.E's financial future.

Organizational Culture and Branding

  • Foster and champion, a positive organizational culture that embodies Ignite.E's core values and mission, promoting transparency, accountability, and teamwork.

  • Lead initiatives to elevate and solidify Ignite.E's brand as a trailblazer in youth entrepreneurship and innovation across Francophone Africa.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Entrepreneurship, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred.

  • At least 5 years of experience in a leadership role, preferably within the entrepreneurship or innovation ecosystem in Francophone Africa.

  • Proven ability to develop and implement complex strategies, with strong analytical skills to monitor progress and make informed decisions.

  • Demonstrated success in developing and executing fundraising strategies, including grant writing and partnership development.

  • Experience in building and managing high-performing teams with a focus on fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.

  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.

  • Strong command of both French and English is required.

  • A deep commitment to youth entrepreneurship, social impact, and the mission of Ignite.E.

 

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your CV and cover letter to recrutement@haskeventures.com before the 10th of September 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted about the following steps.

 

WHAT IGNITE.E OFFERS

Ignite.E empowers youth entrepreneurship and employment by collaborating with ecosystem partners to build effective support systems for young entrepreneurs. The mission is to foster youth-led businesses and develop a skilled labour force essential for their growth.

Through its challenge fund, Ignite.E offers financial and technical assistance to knowledge institutions—universities, TVETs, specialized schools, and youth associations. This support enables them to create entrepreneurship ecosystems, well-suited to their local contexts while leveraging their distinct strengths.

Through its Ecosystem House and Talent Factory, Ignite.E partners with ecosystem actors to provide technical assistance to educational institutions, youth entrepreneurs, and the workforce, thereby facilitating the development of successful youth-led enterprises.

By 2030, Ignite.E aims to launch 1,000 youth-led startups and SMEs, generating jobs and equipping African youth with the skills required for high-demand entry-level positions in both African and global markets. Join Ignite.E to make a significant impact on the continent, engage with leading experts, and collaborate with a broad network of national and international stakeholders to advance entrepreneurship across Africa.