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Chief Operating Officer
About the job
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Location: Accra, Ghana
Organization: Dikan Center
Reports to: Founder and Executive Director
Type: Full-Time - On-Site
About Dikan Center
Dikan Center is a non-profit institution based in Accra, Ghana, with a mission to educate and empower the next generation of Africa's creative leaders. We believe in the transformative power of visual education and are dedicated to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among African learners. Through our multidisciplinary curriculum, immersive galleries, innovative labs, heritage institute and community-driven initiatives, we aim to revolutionize visual and creative education and drive social and economic progress across the continent.
Position Overview
The Chief Operating Officer (COO), as a senior leadership role, will play a pivotal role in advancing Dikan Center's mission to educate and empower Africa's next generation of creative leaders. Reporting directly to the Founder/ Executive Director, the COO will be responsible for the overall operational management of the organization, ensuring that Dikan’s strategic objectives are translated into tangible results through effective and efficient organizational processes. This role requires a seasoned leader with a strong background in nonprofit management, operations, and financial oversight. The COO will work closely with the Founder/ Executive Director, board and other executive leaders to drive the organization's growth, innovation, and impact. The COO will oversee day-to-day operations, financial management, human resources, and the implementation of organizational policies. This role demands a true believer in Dikan's vision, a dynamic leader with a passion for education and social impact, and a deep commitment to transforming Africa through innovative visual education.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership and Management:
Develop, implement, and refine operational strategies to ensure alignment with Dikan’s mission and goals.
Lead the operations team, providing direction and oversight to ensure seamless execution of all organizational activities.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of operational processes and implement improvements to enhance productivity and efficiency.
Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and policies, including health and safety standards.
Strategic Planning and Execution:
Collaborate with the CEO and Board of Directors to develop long-term strategic plans.
Translate the organization’s strategic objectives into actionable operational plans with clear timelines and deliverables.
Establish performance metrics and regularly evaluate the progress of strategic initiatives.
Provide regular updates to the CEO and Board on the status of operational and strategic initiatives.
Financial Oversight and Sustainability:
Oversee financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting.
Work with the finance team to ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively and in line with the organization’s priorities.
Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring the organization’s financial sustainability.
Support fundraising efforts by providing operational insights and ensuring the efficient use of funds.
Human Resources and Team Development:
Oversee human resources functions, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment that aligns with Dikan’s values and mission.
Implement staff development programs to enhance the skills and capabilities of the team.
Ensure that the organization’s staffing needs are met and that the team is motivated and aligned with the organization’s goals.
Program Management and Development:
Oversee the planning, development, and execution of Dikan’s programs, ensuring they meet the needs of the community and stakeholders.
Work with program directors to ensure that programs are delivered effectively and within budget.
Evaluate the impact of programs and make recommendations for improvement.
Ensure that Dikan’s programs are innovative, relevant, and aligned with the organization’s mission.
Infrastructure and Technology Management:
Oversee the management and maintenance of Dikan’s facilities, including galleries, labs, studios, and the visual library.
Ensure that all facilities are safe, functional, and conducive to learning and creativity.
Lead efforts to integrate technology into the organization’s operations and programs, enhancing efficiency and impact.
Manage relationships with vendors and service providers to ensure that infrastructure and technology needs are met.
Stakeholder Relations and Partnerships:
Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, government agencies, and community organizations.
Represent Dikan Center at conferences, meetings, and public events, effectively communicating the organization’s mission and impact.
Work with the CEO to identify and pursue strategic partnerships that align with Dikan’s mission and goals.
Ensure that stakeholders are engaged and informed about Dikan’s activities and impact.
Risk Management and Compliance:
Develop and implement risk management strategies to protect the organization’s assets and reputation.
Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including those related to nonprofit governance, employment, and data protection.
Oversee the development and implementation of policies and procedures that promote organizational integrity and accountability.
Regularly assess organizational risks and develop contingency plans. Innovation and Continuous Improvement:
Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the organization.
Identify opportunities for growth and expansion, including new programs, services, and revenue streams.
Stay informed about industry trends and best practices, ensuring that Dikan remains at the forefront of visual education.
Encourage experimentation and creativity within the team, supporting the development of new ideas and approaches.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field; Master’s degree in a relevant field is highly preferred.
A minimum of 6-11 years of senior management experience, preferably in the nonprofit, education, creative or related sectors.
Demonstrated experience in leading operational functions, including finance, HR, and program management.
Strong understanding of financial management principles, including budgeting, financial reporting, and risk management.
Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans and translate them into operational success.
Excellent leadership and team-building skills, with a track record of fostering a positive organizational culture.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse stakeholders.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a focus on achieving results.
A deep commitment to Dikan’s mission and values, with a passion for education and the creative arts in Africa.
Compensation and Benefits
Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience.
Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.