Managing Director At Alma Research

ABOUT US

Alma Research is a regional private research and consulting firm and a leading supplier of field research, monitoring, verification, and evaluation services across Eastern Africa, with main offices in Mogadishu in South Central Somalia, and registered offices in Hargeisa in Somaliland, Nairobi in Kenya, Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, and Djibouti. Alma has significant presence in all the regions with extensive networks throughout, having carried out a wide range of research implementation exercises. Alma leverages its vast experience of managing and coordinating large-scale data collection, third party monitoring assignments, research activities in both the humanitarian and development sectors across East Africa. For more information, visit https://alma-africa.com.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Alma is seeking a dynamic and ambitious Managing Director to act as the face of the company and drive the expansion of our client base. The Managing Director will be responsible for managing office operations and business development. They will work with the Alma Board Chairman and members to envision future growth prospects and gather data on social, demographic, economic, and funding trends. Additionally, they will enhance and supplement the current systems in place for identifying new business opportunities.

Roles and Responsibilities include:

Leadership & Management:

• Serve as the primary representative and face of Alma Research.
• Oversee the daily operations and management of Alma’s offices.
• Work closely with the Board Chairman and Board members to set strategic directions and goals.
• Provide strong leadership and vision to ensure the organization meets its objectives.
• Represent Alma at conferences, workshops, and other relevant forums.
• Build and maintain a network of contacts within the humanitarian and development sectors.
• Act as a spokesperson for Alma in the media and other public platforms.

Business Development:

• Expand Alma’s client base by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance Alma’s market presence and reputation.
• Engage with potential clients, stakeholders, and partners to establish and nurture relationships.
• Gather and analyze reconnaissance data on social, demographic, economic, and funding trends to inform strategic decisions.

Project Management:

• Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of Alma’s research projects.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Maintain high standards of quality and reliability in all research outputs.

Team Development:

• Foster a positive and productive work environment.
• Mentor and develop Alma’s staff, providing guidance and professional growth opportunities.
• Promote teamwork and collaboration across all offices and project teams.

COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, International Development, or a related field. A master’s degree is a plus.
• Proven experience, at least 8 years, in business development within the development consulting sector, particularly in East Africa.
• Proven experience in a senior management role within the research, consulting, or humanitarian/development sectors.
• Strong understanding of the social, economic, and political dynamics of East Africa.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement successful business development strategies.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation to guide strategic decisions.
• Willingness to travel frequently across the region.
• Excellent organizational skills, including attention to detail, ability to prioritize and multi-task, and ability to work under and adhere to tight deadlines
• Excellent cross-cultural and interpersonal communication skills; ability to translate complex technical language and ideas into a form easily comprehensible to non-technical audiences
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team; must be a team player and demonstrate a sense of responsibility and sensitivity in dealing with diverse audiences
• Demonstrable initiative, creativity, and flexibility; ability to work independently and effectively in groups