Country Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Benin.

📋 Description

• Lead the acquisition team in Benin, comprising five freelance country representatives.

• Manage client relationships post-acquisition, ensuring continuity, engagement quality, and strategic alignment.

• Report to the regional head and collaborate with country managers, program managers, recruitment, as well as communications and partnerships teams.

• Develop and execute the Country Impact Plan in accordance with PUM’s mission, strategy, and organizational goals.

• Enhance business ecosystems through strategic analysis and alignment with PUM programs.

• Build partnerships with entrepreneurs, business organizations, and other enabling entities.

• Identify, cultivate, and secure funding opportunities from institutional donors, foundations, corporate partners, and other sponsors.

• Foster strategic partnerships with SMEs and stakeholders through effective account management and ongoing engagement.

• Build, lead, and mentor the country representative team.

• Ensure the team's capacity, motivation, accountability, and performance, including organizing country team meetings.

• Qualify new clients using criteria related to diversity, inclusion, green goals, and social goals.

• Approve project proposals and guarantee accurate, complete information for expert matching.

• Collaborate with program managers to support the success of projects.

• Occasionally welcome and accompany visiting experts.

• Engage with clients post-acquisition to ensure continuity, quality, and strategic alignment.

• Conduct briefing and debriefing sessions for quality assurance, data collection, and learning.

• Monitor performance, share data-driven insights, and enhance results.

• Ensure adherence to organizational policies, quality standards, and project timelines.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree.

• Minimum of 10 years' experience in a coordinating role and leading a commercial or acquisition-focused team.

• Strong local network of SMEs and comprehensive understanding of business ecosystem development in Benin.

• Familiarity with European work culture and remote collaboration within international organizations.

• Strong intercultural communication abilities.

• Demonstrated leadership, accountability, performance management, and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Experience in managing a remote team operating throughout the country.

• Willingness to travel occasionally within Benin.

• Strong focus on impact, quality, and measurable outcomes.

• Data-driven and proficient in using digital tools, including Microsoft 365.

• Excellent command of the English language.

• Fluent in French.

• Permanently based in Benin.

• Available for 30 hours per week.

• Reference checks and a declaration of good conduct are required as part of the selection process.

• CV and motivation letter must be submitted in English.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive fee aligned with local market standards.

• Independent contractor arrangement.

• Initial one-year assignment with the possibility of extension based on organizational needs and successful collaboration.

• Continuous learning through exposure to diverse people and cultures.

• Professional network-building with institutional funders, government entities, and NGOs.

• International exposure in a multicultural environment.

• Opportunity to contribute to sustainable development and create meaningful impact.