Country Manager

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

📋 Description

• Lead the South Africa country acquisition team consisting of six freelance Country Representatives.

• Oversee client relationships throughout the entire process following acquisition.

• Create and execute the Country Impact Plan in accordance with PUM’s mission and strategic goals.

• Enhance business ecosystems through strategic analysis and partnership development.

• Form alliances with entrepreneurs, business organizations, and supportive organizations.

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

• Promote strategic partnerships with SMEs and stakeholders through effective account management and continuous engagement.

• Build, lead, mentor, and manage the performance of the country representative team.

• Organize country team meetings and ensure team capacity, motivation, accountability, and performance are upheld.

• Assess new clients based on diversity, inclusion, environmental, and social criteria.

• Approve project proposals and ensure precise information for expert matching.

• Collaborate with program managers and other departments to ensure successful project delivery.

• Occasionally welcome and accompany visiting experts.

• Personally engage with clients following acquisition.

• Lead briefing and debriefing sessions to ensure quality assurance, data collection, and learning.

• Monitor performance, analyze data, and share insights to enhance results.

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

• Report to the Head of Region and work in collaboration with the Africa regional team.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree.

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

• Strong local network of SMEs and a deep understanding of business ecosystem development in South Africa.

• Familiarity with European work culture.

• Experience in remote collaboration within international organizations.

• Strong intercultural communication skills.

• Proven skills in leadership and accountability.

• Experience in performance management and stakeholder engagement.

• Proficient in managing a remote team operating across the country.

• Willingness to travel occasionally within South Africa.

• Strong emphasis on impact, quality, and measurable results.

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

• Excellent command of the English language.

• Must be permanently based in South Africa, preferably in Johannesburg or Cape Town.

• Availability for 37.5 hours per week.

• Successful reference checks and declaration of good conduct are required.

• Advanced English proficiency at CEFR level C1 or C2.

🏝️ Benefits

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

• Continuous learning through interactions with diverse people and cultures.

• Professional networking with institutional funders, government entities, NGOs, entrepreneurs, and business organizations.

• International exposure in a multicultural environment.

• Independent contractor assignment with the possibility of extension based on organizational needs and successful collaboration.

• Competitive fee aligned with local market standards.

• Flexible remote collaboration.

• Work alongside a global network of 1,200 voluntary experts.

• A focus on diversity and inclusion within the work environment.