Director of Operations at Centre for Community Development and Research Network (CCDRN)

Centre for Community Development and Research Network (CCDRN) is an indigenous non-governmental organization committed to sustainable community development in livelihood, economic empowerment, peacebuilding, agriculture, nutrition, health, education, and governance. With over a decade of operation, we've implemented 50+ projects in partnership with esteemed donors like United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), UN-Women, Creative Associate International, Search for Common Ground (SFCG), and many more. Headquartered in Kaduna, Nigeria, with regional field offices, CCDRN excels in developmental and humanitarian sectors through research that informs government and international agencies. We collaborate with communities, emphasizing self-reliance, transparency, and equity, and deliver innovative, impactful services that exceed expectations. Our deep local roots and strong relationships with local authorities, stakeholders, and communities across Nigeria set us apart as a trusted partner in community-driven development

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Director of Operations

Location: Kaduna North, Kaduna
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

• The Director of Operations will provide strategic leadership and management for the Human Resources Unit, Procurement Unit, IT Support, and Logistics at CCDRN HQ Kaduna.
• This role is responsible for ensuring the effective and efficient coordination of operational systems that support CCDRN’s programs and administrative functions.
• Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Operations will drive process improvements, compliance, and integration across operational units to promote organizational effectiveness and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership and Strategy:

• Develop and implement operational strategies and policies for Human Resources, Procurement, IT Support, and Logistics units aligned with CCDRN’s mission and goals.
• Oversee coordination and integration of operational systems to ensure seamless support for programmatic and administrative functions.
• Collaborate with senior management to align operational priorities with organizational objectives and growth plans.

Human Resources Management:

• Lead the Human Resources Unit in delivering effective recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee engagement programs.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, internal policies, and donor regulations related to human resource management.
• Foster a positive work environment that supports staff development, motivation, and retention.
• Oversee training initiatives and encourage continuous professional development.

Procurement Management:

• Provide strategic oversight over the Procurement Unit to ensure transparent, efficient, and compliant procurement processes.
• Establish and monitor procurement policies, supplier relationships, and contract management systems.
• Ensure timely sourcing and delivery of goods and services essential for program implementation and organizational operations.

Information Technology Support:

• Lead the IT Support Unit to provide reliable infrastructure, applications, and user support that enhance operational efficiency.
• Oversee IT policies, data security, and system maintenance to protect organizational assets and data integrity.
• Promote technology adoption and innovation to streamline internal processes and communication.

Logistics and Facilities Management:

• Direct logistics activities to support program implementation, event coordination, and office management.
• Ensure the efficient management of assets, office facilities, transport, and supply chain operations.
• Develop contingency plans to address operational challenges and ensure continuity of services.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure all operational activities adhere to organizational policies, legal requirements, and donor regulations.
• Identify operational risks and lead the development of mitigation strategies across all units.
• Collaborate with Finance, Legal, and Compliance teams to uphold strong internal controls and ethical standards.

Team Leadership and Capacity Building:

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and performance oversight for staff across Human Resources, Procurement, IT, and Logistics units.
• Promote collaboration, accountability, and a culture of continuous improvement within operational teams.
• Organize training and capacity-building initiatives to enhance skills, knowledge, and operational best practices.

Stakeholder Engagement and Representation:

• Represent CCDRN operations in internal and external forums, donor meetings, and sector coordination platforms.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors, service providers, regulatory bodies, and partners relevant to operational areas.
• Collaborate with program managers and other departments to ensure operational alignment with programmatic needs.

Organizational Development and Sustainability:

• Support organizational planning and expansion by ensuring the operational readiness and capacity to meet growth demands.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery.
• Contribute inputs to funding proposals, highlighting operational readiness and capacity considerations.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Advanced Degree in Business Administration, Public Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 8-10 years of progressive senior management experience in operational leadership, preferably within NGOs, development agencies, or complex organizational environments.
• Proven ability to manage multiple operational units and lead cross-functional teams strategically.
• Deep understanding of NGO operations including compliance, donor regulations, and organizational dynamics.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a focus on process improvement and operational innovation.

Application Closing Date
16th May, 2025.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their cover letter and resume detailing their qualifications and experience relevant to the role, to: hr@ccdrn.org using the job title as the subject of the email.

Note

• Late applications will not be considered.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• CCDRN strongly encourages women to apply.
• CCDRN is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from qualified female candidates. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability status, or any other protected category.