1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants SPARK Schools is a social impact disruptor and is leading change in the education space through its network of affordable private schools. The SPARK Schools network provides transformational education innovation through Africa's first blended learning model, which elevates student achievement and provides the tools teachers need to serve their students effectively. The blended learning model, which combines classroom teaching and online instruction, allows teachers to anticipate student needs and equips schools to provide personalised education at an affordable cost. SPARK Schools is pioneering this transformative education model to ensure the accessibility of university and careers for all. SPARK Schools is a high-growth, mission and values-driven entrepreneurial organisation, operating 21 primary schools, 5 high schools and serving over 16,000 families in 2024. We are looking for dynamic people to join our team. Requirements Purpose of Role: The Chief of Staff at SPARK schools serves as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to the CEO, supporting the organisation in achieving its mission of providing affordable, quality education. This role is instrumental in driving operational efficiency, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and facilitating strategic decision-making outcomes across the SPARK Schools' network. The Chief of Staff provides critical analysis, project leadership, and communication support to the CEO and executive leadership team, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and values while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. By leveraging their expertise in strategic planning, operational oversight, and leadership development, the Chief of Staff plays a pivotal role in advancing SPARK Schools' commitment to educational excellence, innovation, and community impact. The Chief of Staff operates in a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) macro-environment that must be navigated to ensure continued alignment with the organisation's strategic goals and growth targets. Reports To: Chief Executive Officer Responsibilities: Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO, providing critical insights, analysis, and recommendations to support decision-making and execution of organisational priorities Collaborate with executive leadership to develop and execute strategic plans, identifying key priorities, milestones, and metrics to measure progress and success Monitor and evaluate organisational performance against strategic objectives, identifying areas for improvement and implementing initiatives to enhance operational effectiveness and efficiency Lead special projects and initiatives on behalf of the CEO, managing timelines, resources, and stakeholders to achieve desired outcomes and drive organisational success Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, representing the CEO's interests and ensuring consistent messaging and alignment with organisational goals Conduct research, analysis, and due diligence on key business issues and opportunities, providing the CEO with timely and relevant information to inform decision-making and drive results Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for the board of directors and shareholders, providing valuable insights and analysis on key performance indicators, financial metrics, and strategic initiatives Support the CEO in identifying and developing future leaders within the organisation, providing mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities to nurture talent and drive succession planning Oversee the day-to-day operations of the CEO's office, ensuring seamless coordination and communication across departments and teams to drive efficiency and alignment with strategic objectives Qualifications and Criteria: The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and criteria: 5+ years experience in a business management or executive role A bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, economics, marketing, or a related field is required An MBA or equivalent advanced degree in finance, marketing, or business analytics is advantageous Experience working in a similar capacity as a Chief of Staff or executive assistant to a CEO is a plus Prior consulting experience, with a focus on operations management, is preferred Competencies: The ideal candidate should be able to demonstrate the following: Strong analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information and draw actionable insights Strong financial analysis and budget planning&management skills Exceptional communication skills, encompassing proficiency in written and verbal communication, as well as strong reporting abilities Strong project management skills Sound business judgement, critical thinking and ability to influence others High level of integrity, professionalism, and discretion, ability to handle sensitive information confidentially Qualities: Grit: Persistence through challenges. Excellence: A track record of high expectations personally and professionally. Mission and Vision Alignment : Understanding of and passion for the SPARK Schools mission to provide excellent education at an affordable cost. Self Reflection: Finding the capacity to bring your best self to challenges and opportunities Values: Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility, Kindness Benefits Compensation: Market related/Commensurate with experience - plus short performance incentives. Position Type: Full Time Location: Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa SPARK schools is an equal opportunities employer and preference will be given to candidates from designated groups with due consideration of the company's Employment Equity goals and targets. SPARK Schools Encourages Persons With Disabilities To Apply. SPARK Schools may expire the posting of this advertisement at their own discretion. Kindly note that should you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date please consider your application unsuccessful. Seniority level Seniority level Executive Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Management Industries Non-profit Organizations and Primary and Secondary Education Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at SPARK Schools by 2x Get notified about new Chief of Staff jobs in Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa . Senior Specialist: Business Enablement (Chief Of Staff) Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa 1 week ago Randburg, Gauteng, South Africa 3 weeks ago HR Programmes and Performance Specialist Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa 18 hours ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr