HEAD OF OPERATIONS

Seismic Consulting Group Limited is a multidisciplinary advisory and innovation firm committed to delivering data-driven, tech-enabled, and impact-focused solutions to global development challenges. With core competencies spanning consultancy, technology, vocational education, infrastructure, fintech, and artificial intelligence, Seismic operates at the intersection of innovation and development to serve governments, donor agencies, and the private sector. The Operations Manager will play a pivotal role in enabling Seismic’s growth and impact and would be responsible for ensuring efficient, compliant, and scalable operational systems to support the successful implementation of Seismic Consulting Group’s consultancy, technology, and development initiatives—including the Seismic AI Lab. The role ensures operational excellence in line with World Bank, USAID, and other donor-funded project standards, ensuring that Seismic’s projects are delivered with efficiency, innovation, and measurable impact, following models adopted by RTI International and GOPA Consultants. The Ideal candidate would be required to carry out the following; A. Strategic Operations & Compliance Oversight Develop, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aligned with World Bank, USAID, and multilateral agency operational requirements. Ensure organizational compliance with donor regulations, contract management policies, and audit standards. Translate the CEO’s strategic priorities into executable operational work plans with defined performance metrics. B. Service Delivery Coordination Coordinate operations across all consultancy units and the Seismic AI Lab to ensure seamless project execution. Monitor project workflows to ensure adherence to timelines, budgets, and donor compliance standards. Implement quality assurance frameworks based on international consulting best practices. C. Business Development & Proposal Support Collaborate with the Business Development Team to prepare operational inputs for bids, proposals, and Expressions of Interest (EOIs). Develop cost-efficient operational frameworks to support multi-country and multi-sector projects. D. People & Organizational Development Work with HR to manage talent acquisition, onboarding, and continuous professional development of operational staff. Foster a performance-driven culture emphasizing accountability, efficiency, and donor compliance. E. Financial & Risk Management Support Support the CFO in developing annual operational budgets and cost-tracking mechanisms compliant with donor cost principles (e.g., USAID 2 CFR 200, World Bank FM guidelines). Implement risk management frameworks for operational and project delivery functions. F. Technology & Knowledge Management Drive the adoption of AI, ERP, and digital tools for operational efficiency, project tracking, and reporting. Ensure institutional knowledge capture and dissemination across teams and projects. Requirements A Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration, Operations Management, International Development, Project Management, or a related field. A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline is required; an advanced degree is strongly preferred. Professional certifications such as PMP®, PRINCE2®, Lean Six Sigma, or equivalent are an advantage Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in operations management, administration, or project support, preferably in consulting firms, donor-funded programs, or international development environments. Proven experience managing operational functions across multi-sector programs, including education, governance, technology, AI, and infrastructure. At least 5 years of experience supporting or overseeing operations in projects funded by USAID, the World Bank, EU, DFID/FCDO, or similar multilateral institutions. Demonstrated experience in developing and managing internal systems, processes, SOPs, and compliance frameworks. Experience supporting proposal development, bid submissions, and start-up operations of new projects or offices is a strong asset. In-depth knowledge of donor regulations and operational standards (e.g., USAID 2 CFR 200, FAR, ADS; World Bank Procurement Framework). Strong skills in project management tools and platforms (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, Asana, Jira). Experience in managing operational integration of innovation-driven teams, such as AI labs or digital development initiatives. Familiarity with Seismic’s thematic areas including vocational education, fintech, digital transformation, and infrastructure development. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; able to liaise confidently with internal and external stakeholders including donors, consultants, and vendors. Strong leadership and team coordination skills, with demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional and multicultural teams.