Purpose of the role:

The Global Lead, Operations and Supply Chain will play a crucial role in demonstrating strong operational leadership by ensuring consistent implementation of best practices and adherence to established quality standards across all AKF country offices. The position is expected to leverage collaborative skills to partner with in-country operations teams and champion the implementation of best practices in procurement, logistics, and administrative management.

The position requires a strategic mindset that will be crucial in optimizing operations while promoting sustainability initiatives that align with the organization’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Through active engagement and knowledge-sharing, the Global Lead, Operations and Supply Chain will be responsible for the establishment and continuous development of the Global Community of Practice for Operations and Supply Chain. She/He will also foster a culture of excellence and adherence to industry-leading practices.

The Global Lead, Operations and Supply Chain will be responsible for the following:

1. Strategy and Standardization:

• Develop and implement a global operations strategy that aligns with AKF’s overall mission and goals.
• Establish and maintain standardized processes for procurement, logistics, and administrative functions across all country offices.
• Identify and implement best practices to optimize efficiency and effectiveness in global operations.
• Lead the development and implementation of sustainable practices within the supply chain, aligning with AKF’s environmental commitments.
• Coordinate closely with the Climate Data Analyst to use AKF’s quarterly GHG emission data to inform the development of GHG reduction strategies.
• Lead the AKF Net Zero carbon programme, in accordance with the AKDN’s environment and climate commitment statement (+link)
• Establish systems for reducing Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from own assets (buildings and vehicles)
• Establish systems to assess and reduce Scope 3 emissions from procurement
• Support country teams to develop and implement country-level net zero plans and pathways to 2030.
• Work closely with the AKDN Climate Change Coordinator to ensure alignment with wider AKDN environment and climate commitments.

2. Leadership and Collaboration:

• Provide strategic direction and guidance to in-country operations teams.
• Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing between country offices for continuous improvement.
• Ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting related to emissions and sustainability metrics to support the organization’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability initiatives.
• Involvement in strategic discussions and decisions around the structure, staffing and budgets of the Operations functions within field units.
• Coach and mentor operations staff, promoting professional development and capacity building.
• Oversee performance metrics and identify areas for improvement across the global operations network.
• Develop and lead quarterly community of practice calls and annual workshops to facilitate sustainability discussions, drive collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation for continuous improvement and organizational success.

3. Systems and Technology:

• Evaluate and recommend the implementation of technology solutions to optimize global operations.
• Ensure data integrity and consistency across all country offices by establishing and maintaining operational data standards.
• Develop and implement reporting frameworks to provide visibility into global operations performance.

4. Risk Management and Compliance:

• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to ensure operational resilience across the globe.
• Ensure that responsible staff enforce compliance with all pertinent regulations and legal requirements for operations in each country.
• Maintain a strong internal control environment to safeguard assets and mitigate financial risks.

5. Communication and Advocacy:

• Communicate effectively with senior management regarding the performance and challenges of global operations.
• Advocate for resources and support to ensure smooth and efficient operations across all country offices.
• Represent the operations and supply chain functions within AKF at a global level.

6. Years of Experience and Qualifications:

Years of Experience:

• The ideal candidate for Global Lead, Operations and Supply Chain should have at least 8-10 years of relevant experience in operations management, supply chain management, or related fields. This experience should include progressively responsible roles with demonstrated leadership and strategic decision-making responsibilities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, logistics, or a related field is required. A master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field is preferred.
• Professional certifications in operations management, supply chain management, or related areas (e.g., CSCP, CPIM, PMP) are highly desirable.
• Proven track record of successful project management, preferably with experience managing complex, multi-country projects in the development or humanitarian sector.
• Strong understanding of sustainable procurement principles and practices, with experience implementing sustainable procurement initiatives in a global context.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify inefficiencies, develop innovative solutions, and drive continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, with experience leading diverse teams and fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex ideas and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Proven ability to work effectively in cross-cultural and multi-disciplinary teams, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Aga Khan Foundation is committed to supporting gender equality and nurturing an inclusive working environment, free of discrimination, prejudice, stereotyping, harassment, victimisation, and other abusive behaviour.

Every Aga Khan Foundation employee has a personal responsibility to actively promote a healthy, safe, enabling, and inclusive environment in line with the organisation’s Code of Conduct, Global Safeguarding Manual and Gender Equality Policy and to speak up about any misconduct, whether witnessed or experienced.