Background
The Nordic International Support Foundation (NIS) is looking for a highly innovative leader with an entrepreneurial spirit, flexibility, integrity, and commitment to NIS’ mission. This is a NIS HQ role and applicants must be residing in or close to Oslo, Norway.
NIS works to support improved security, environmental health, and stability through the realisation of the principles underpinning the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Foundation’s work has a global focus, tailoring programmes to fit the needs and circumstances specific to the operating environment, ranging from conflict-affected countries to developed countries, including Norway. The Foundation has its offices in Oslo. In 2022, the Foundation carried out projects in Somalia, Mali and Norway.
NIS primarily works with institutional development, social measures, education, utilisation of green technologies, grants management and awareness raising efforts, focusing on supporting the creation of peaceful and inclusive societies, environmental awareness, social equality and sustainability. Across these many types of projects, we continually emphasise the need to deliver concrete benefits that strengthen targeted communities to achieve longer-term social and economic development goals.
Essential Functions
Reporting to the Executive Director, NIS’ Head of Operations has overall responsibility for the day-to-day operational management of the organisation, including overseeing HR functions, donor contract compliance and reporting functions. The Head of Operations will work with the Executive Director and wider team driving development and setting strategy for the organisation and supporting the Executive Director in meeting NIS’ longer-term strategic objectives. The Head of Operations will demonstrate exceptional leadership and an ability to find creative solutions to a wide variety of challenges. Working in complex environments requires flexibility and willingness to think “outside the box”. One of NIS’ main comparative advantages has been its lean and flexible organisational culture, allowing it often to respond more quickly and strategically than larger actors. This approach must then be supported by a strategic focus on creative, responsive and pragmatic day-to-day management of key functions.
Main Responsibilities
Operational Planning and Management: You will ensure that the operations of NIS meet internal standards and requirements, as well as the requirements of donors, and the expectations of strategic partners and communities. This includes reviewing donor contract terms to ensure consistency and reasonableness in terms of delivery, as well as legal implications. Another area of focus will be overseeing operational support from NIS HQ to field offices for the planning and implementation of NIS’ programmes and projects, including working to identify and evaluate the risks to NIS’ people, property, finances, and image and implement mitigation measures.
Human Resources and Management: As a leader you will drive an organisational and management culture of trust, empowerment, and accountability, and contribute to NIS being an attractive workplace, where staff thrive and develop. This includes ensuring staffing requirements for NIS HQ and support field offices in the same to achieve organisational goals.
Compliance and Internal Audit: You will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all NIS policies and guidelines, as well as donor requirements and contractual obligations, in cooperation with relevant managers. This includes ensuring that NIS complies with all Norwegian legislation governing foundations in Norway. Responsibilities also include supporting audit processes (project and annual audit) and being the focal point for due diligence assessments of NIS and working closely with the designated external audit firm supporting NIS’ internal audit function.
Financial Planning and Management: Your role includes supporting the Executive Director and Finance Management in overseeing the organisational budget and HQ finances, reviewing and approval of procurement protocols and associated documents and ensuring regular screening of NIS’ vendors.
Desired Qualifications
- Master’s Degree or similar in relevant field.
- More than 10 years’ experience in operations management in an international setting, with a track record of solving complicated and complex problems.
- Demonstrated ability to lead high performing teams dealing with difficult environments in a cross-cultural setting.
- Strong knowledge of international operations. Experience from the development sector is considered an advantage, but not a requirement.
- Exceptional communicator.
- Fluent in Norwegian and English (written and spoken). Other languages are considered an asset.
Success Factors
- A highly innovative leader with an entrepreneurial spirit, flexibility, integrity, and commitment to NIS’ mission.
- Strategic sense with a focus on detail and providing pragmatic solutions at the organisational, programme and project levels.
We Offer
- An inclusive, dynamic, and international work environment with energetic and committed colleagues.
- Flexible working hours and home office arrangements.
- A good insurance package.
- Workout during work hours and sponsored gym membership.
- Bright and pleasant offices in a dynamic neighbourhood of Oslo, only 5 minutes from Mathallen.
How to apply
In order to apply, followthis linkto register contact information and upload your CV and application letter. Should you have any questions regarding the position or your application, please reach out to Vilde Straume Wiig, email: vsw@nis-foundation.org.
NIS Foundation strives to be an inclusive workplace and welcomes diversity in the group of staff. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of any disabilities, background or identity, etc.