About the companySA Youth Development Organisation. About the role The COO will oversee daily operations, enhance operational efficiency, optimize business processes, manage financials, drive new business development, handle proposal writing, manage tender and funding application submissions, ensure professional business communication, foster stakeholder relations, lead team management, oversee contracting, and report to the board. Qualifications and Experience Aligned tertiary education. Minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior operational role. Experience in the youth development or related sector(s) is advantageous but not a requirement. Proven track record of managing operations, optimizing processes, and driving business growth. Strong financial acumen and experience in financial management and reporting. Excellent proposal writing and business communication skills. Experience with tender and funding application submissions. Strong leadership and team management abilities. Experience in stakeholder relations and contract management. Other traits Strategic thinker with the ability to execute tactically. High level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the companys mission. Key Responsibilities 1. Operational Efficiency: Develop and implement business strategies, plans, and procedures to ensure operational efficiency. Oversee daily operations and the performance of team members across various departments (Sales, Finance, Project Management, Media, IT, etc.). Structure, monitor, and analyze team performance metrics and KPIs to ensure alignment with company goals. 2. Business Process Optimization: Identify and improve internal processes to enhance productivity and efficiency. Implement best practices and standards across the organization. Drive continuous improvement and innovation in business processes. 3. Financial Management: Ensure financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Ensure robust financial controls and procedures are in place. Optimize resource allocation and cost management to maximize profitability. 4. New Business Development: Identify and pursue new business opportunities to drive growth and expansion. Develop and implement strategies to enter new markets and enhance market presence. Build and maintain relationships with potential partners, clients, and stakeholders. 5. Proposal Writing and Tender/Funding Application Submissions: Oversee the preparation and submission of high-quality business proposals, tenders, and funding applications. Ensure all submissions meet the required standards and deadlines. Provide guidance and support in the development of proposals and applications. 6. Professional Business Writing: Oversee the creation and editing of professional business documents, reports, and communications. Ensure all written materials reflect the companys standards and strategic vision. Maintain consistency and quality in all business writing efforts. Develop business document templates. 7. Stakeholder Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, partners, donors, and regulatory bodies. Represent the company at meetings, conferences, and industry events. Ensure effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders to support company objectives. 8. Team Management: Lead, motivate, and develop the team, fostering a positive and productive work environment. Structure and conduct regular performance evaluations, provide feedback and support to team members, and introduce personal development mapping for team members. Promote a culture of high performance, continuous improvement, and accountability. 9. Contracting: Overseewith the support of legal supportall aspects of contracting, including negotiation, execution, and management of contracts with clients, vendors, and partners. Ensure compliance with contractual obligations and regulatory requirements. Manage risk and resolve any contractual disputes that arise. 10. Board Reporting: Prepare and present regular reports to the board of directors on operational performance, financial status, and strategic initiatives. Provide insights and recommendations to the board to support informed decision-making. Ensure timely and accurate reporting in accordance with corporate governance standards. A Consultant will be in touch if you are shortlisted for the position. Please consider your application unsuccessful should you not have been contacted within 2 weeks. We will keep your CV on our database and contact you should you match the criteria of any other vacancies.