Operations Manager (Lead)

Operations Team Lead – INT11690: An exceptional leadership opportunity for an experienced professional to oversee and enhance operational workflows. JOB PURPOSE The Operations Lead assumes a pivotal role in driving strategic direction, operational oversight, and team leadership for all business operations functions within the Southern Africa (SAF) Cluster. This position ensures seamless integration and peak efficiency across finance, logistics, procurement, ICT, compliance, internal controls, and risk management systems, fostering a robust and resilient regional operational framework. This position is tasked with establishing and sustaining the operational infrastructure of the SAF Cluster, guaranteeing that all business service systems are cohesive, appropriately designed, and equipped to support a highly intricate, multinational, partner-driven, and progressively decentralized programmatic framework. It ensures that operational architecture remains integrated across countries and affiliates, serving as a cohesive strategic driver of Oxfam’s 2026–2030 regional strategy. Reporting directly to the Cluster Director, this position holds dual responsibility: strategically aligning and continuously enhancing operational systems in finance, logistics, procurement, ICT, grants compliance, and organizational controls; and leading a multidisciplinary regional operations team to drive high performance, accountability, and service excellence. The Operations Lead is instrumental in maintaining financial integrity, mitigating legal and reputational risks, and bolstering donor confidence. Additionally, the role supports partner-led delivery systems while ensuring Oxfam’s operational frameworks remain flexible enough to address both long-term development priorities and urgent humanitarian surge demands. This position drives Oxfam’s regional advancement across Southern Africa by providing visionary strategic leadership, seamless enterprise systems integration, cutting-edge operational innovation, and effective people management, thereby enhancing the organization’s capacity to deliver high-performing, compliant, transparent, and forward-thinking programs. As a key member of the Cluster Leadership Team, you will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction, governance, and operational management of the SAF Cluster. This position entails shared accountability for the Cluster’s performance, risk mitigation, and successful implementation of its strategy. In cases where you are based within a program hub, you will function under delegated authority as the principal Oxfam representative in that country. In this capacity, you will provide leadership in organizational stewardship, represent the Cluster in high-level engagements with governmental bodies, partners, donors, coordination mechanisms, and other relevant internal and external stakeholders, and ensure that regional priorities are effectively translated into country-level execution. Essential Qualifications A master’s degree in business management, administration, or financial management, or an equivalent professional qualification, is required. A Bachelor’s degree, supplemented by a fully qualified professional accountancy credential such as CA, ARCA, ACA, or CIA, may also be deemed acceptable. Professional with expertise in banking regulations and systems spanning all four countries within the region. A minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in finance, operations, logistics, compliance, and business services leadership is required, including at least two years dedicated to the development sector. Seasoned professional with a track record of overseeing operational systems across multiple countries. Results-driven leadership with a strong aptitude for talent development, change management, and motivating teams. Skilled in elevating professional standards and unlocking the potential of team members through coaching and guidance. Experienced in logistics management, with a strong ability to deliver services in remote locations. Experienced in comprehensive administrative management, with a strong ability to deliver proactive, business-centered support of the highest caliber. Experienced in formal project management methodologies, with a proven ability to lead projects and maintain strong organizational discipline. Demonstrates the capacity to cultivate robust and dependable relationships with both internal stakeholders and external partners. Here’s the paragraph: Required qualities include strong self-awareness, high personal energy, resilience, and adaptability. Candidates must demonstrate the capacity to work creatively, efficiently, and innovatively, adjusting seamlessly to evolving circumstances while ensuring consistent delivery and thorough follow-through. Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with team members and foster cooperative relationships across various teams. Dedication to upholding Oxfam’s safeguarding policies is essential to guarantee the safety and protection of all individuals who engage with our organization. Desirable Portuguese language capability Southern Africa regional experience Humanitarian operational systems exposure Proficiency in banking frameworks and regulatory environments spanning various SAF member countries is required. Demonstrated dedication to Oxfam’s mission and strategic objectives, along with a proven track record in advancing gender equality, fostering diversity, and championing the rights of excluded and vulnerable populations across all organizational activities. Capable of and committed to frequent travel, including spontaneous trips, both within the local area and across the broader region. Organisational Values : Accountability We uphold a purpose-driven, results-oriented methodology, emphasizing responsibility and accountability in our actions while expecting the same standard from others. Empowerment At Oxfam, our methodology ensures that every individual engaged—whether staff, supporters, or individuals affected by poverty—feels empowered to drive meaningful change. Inclusiveness We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and celebrate diversity in all its forms. We recognize that every individual brings unique perspectives and value, irrespective of visible or invisible differences. The closing date is Thursday, 06 th August 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by email. Oxfam is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace that upholds equal opportunities, with a strong emphasis on promoting diversity and achieving gender parity throughout the organization. If your qualifications align with the specified requirements, and you embrace Oxfam’s core values, we encourage you to submit your application by visiting our official website at: [Click the Apply button below to apply, and Create my CV to build a CV tailored to this offer, professionally]