Head of Systems and Operations

About the role

The Head of Systems and Operations (HoSO) will report directly to the Country Director and lead the finance, logistics and HR functions of the Zambia Country Programme. The role ensures that all operational processes are aligned with People in Need’s policies and donor requirements, while building capacity across support teams.

Key responsibilities

• Guarantee that systems and operations fully support the Country Strategy and comply with donor and organisational rules.
• Standardise and harmonise procedures for finance, HR and logistics across the country office.
• Facilitate effective communication between support functions and programme departments.
• Supervise the overall country programme economy, identify gaps and financial or procedural risks, and propose solutions.
• Oversee budgets of support departments, improve needs planning and contribute to budgeting for new projects.
• Provide technical guidance to finance teams on budgeting, drawing and accounting processes.
• Support logisticians in office management, fleet, procurement, stock and asset management, including logistic budgeting.
• Lead HR agenda, focusing on staff capacity development and performance management.

Required profile

• Proven senior‑level experience managing finance, logistics and HR functions in an international NGO or similar environment.
• Strong knowledge of donor compliance, financial risk management and operational best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams, build capacity and drive process improvement.
• Excellent communication skills in English and ability to work collaboratively with programme staff.

Required skills