Country manager Ivory Coast

As country manager in Ivory Coast, you understand the crucial role strong business ecosystems play in driving economic growth, social inclusion, and sustainable development. You bring a solid local network of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and partners, combined with proven experience in programme management and team leadership. Do you thrive on building meaningful partnerships, leading a result-driven team, and creating lasting impact across your country? This is your opportunity! 

PUM is a unique organisation committed to making a positive impact on a global scale. With a network of 1,200 skilled voluntary experts, we collaborate with ambitious entrepreneurs in 26 countries and 12 programmes, sharing expertise to strengthen business ecosystems and create economic, social, and environmental value. We work closely with SMEs, as well as the organisations that support them. We believe in the power of collaboration and in the magic that happens when diverse perspectives come together; Together we grow!   

You will lead the country acquisition team in Ivory Coast, consisting of 6 country representatives on a freelance basis who engage change-driven SMEs to participate in PUM's impactful programmes. You hold end-to-end responsibility for client relationship management after acquisition, ensuring continuity, quality of engagement, and strategic alignment. You will be part of the Africa regional team, reporting to the head of region and collaborating closely with 15 other country managers in the region, 12 programme managers, as well as other departments such as recruitment and communications & partnerships. Your daily activities will be varied and challenging:

• You develop and implement the Country Impact Plan (CIP) in line with PUM’s mission, strategy, and organisational ambitions. 

• You center on strengthening business ecosystems, based on strategic analysis and in line with PUM’s programmes. You are able to establish partnerships and collaborate with wider networks of entrepreneurs, business organisations and other enabling organisations to advance business ecosystems.

• You identify, develop, and secure funding opportunities from institutional donors, foundations, corporate partners, and other possible sponsors, contributing to the sustainability and growth of PUM's impact in Ivory Coast.

• You foster strategic partnerships with SMEs and stakeholders through proactive account management and ongoing engagement, building trust and long-term impact, while expanding PUM's visibility, credibility and country influence. 

• You build, lead, and coach the country representative team, safeguarding the quality and continuity of acquisition. 

• You ensure team capacity, motivation, accountability, and performance through effective people management, including organising country team meetings (CTMs). 

• You qualify new clients using assessment criteria that emphasise diversity, inclusion, and alignment with PUM’s green and social goals within business ecosystems. 

• You approve project proposals, ensuring accurate and complete information so programme managers can identify the right expert match. 

• You collaborate closely with programme managers to ensure alignment, shared goals, and successful projects. Occasionally, you will welcome and accompany visiting experts. 

• You personally engage with clients after acquisition, ensuring continuity, quality of engagement, and strategic fit. 

• You lead professional briefing and debriefing sessions to ensure quality assurance, data collection, and learning.  

• You monitor performance and use data to share insights and improve results.  

• You ensure compliance with organisational policies, quality standards, and project timelines. 

As country manager, you combine strategic vision with operational excellence. You understand the challenges that local SMEs face and know how to translate entrepreneurial ambition into tangible impact. Does this sound like you? 

• You are a proactive, hands-on and strategic thinker with a bachelor's or master's degree. 

• You bring at least 10 years of experience in a coordinating role and leading a commercial or acquisition-focused team. 

• You have a strong local SME network and a deep understanding of business ecosystem development in your country. 

• You are familiar with European work culture and experienced in remote collaboration within international organisations. 

• You demonstrate strong intercultural communication skills and collaborate effectively across departments and stakeholders. 

• You have proven leadership and accountability skills, with experience in performance management and stakeholder engagement. 

• You are experienced in managing a remote team operating across the country. 

• You are willing to travel occasionally within Ivory Coast for project development visits, partnership meetings, and country team meetings. 

• You are strongly focused on impact, quality, and measurable results. 

• You thrive in an organisation in growth and transition and enjoy contributing to further professionalisation. 

• You are data-driven and comfortable using digital tools, including Microsoft 365. 

• You have excellent command of English and speak French fluently. 

• You are permanently based in Ivory Coast and available for 22.5 hours per week. 

Becoming a country manager at PUM isn’t just a career move; it’s a chance to drive meaningful change. Working at a volunteer organisation like PUM offers extra fulfilment. In addition to the benefits mentioned, here’s what else awaits you:   

• Building a brighter future: Contribute to the sustainable development of communities, cultivating a profound sense of fulfilment 

• Optimal knowledge utilisation: Put your expertise to its best use, making tangible impact on businesses worldwide.  

• Continuous learning: Embrace new perspectives and gain insights by connecting with diverse people and cultures.  

• Building a professional network: Collaborate with a vast network of stakeholders, including institutional funders, government entities, and NGOs.  

• International exposure: Immerse yourself in a multicultural environment, broadening your horizons. 

Get inspired by one of our successful projects within our Social & Education programme in Ivory Coast: Linking business and education in Ivory Coast - PUM