Operations Officer – Nairobi, Kenya | Adeso Social Enterprise Role 2025

Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Operations Officer
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: 12-Month Fixed Term Contract (Renewable subject to performance and funding)
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: Not specified (Candidates to indicate salary expectation in application)
• Category/Department: Operations
• Reporting To: Operations and Admin Coordinator
• Application Deadline: 27th June 2025
• Reference Number: Not specified

Introduction

The operations jobs in Kenya landscape offers a dynamic opportunity for professionals to drive impactful change, and this Operations Officer role in Nairobi is a prime example. This position is perfect for a detail-oriented, proactive individual eager to support a pioneering African social enterprise with global influence. By coordinating procurement, logistics, and compliance across nonprofit programs and for-profit subsidiaries, you will play a critical role in ensuring operational efficiency and advancing community-led solutions. This career opportunity aligns with Kenya’s growing demand for skilled operations professionals who can navigate complex, multi-entity environments while contributing to a mission of decolonization, equity, and solidarity.

About Adeso

Adeso is a trailblazing African social enterprise with over 30 years of impactful work across the continent and beyond. Headquartered in Nairobi, Adeso is committed to creating a decolonized world where communities thrive through their own resourcefulness and tenacity. The organization leads global efforts to shift power to local leaders, working with civil society, funders, and international NGOs to reimagine humanitarian and development systems. Adeso’s portfolio includes innovative subsidiaries like Ladhan Investment Ltd, Libin Investment Ltd, and Kuja, which focus on building ecosystems to address the legacy of colonialism. Operating across nonprofit and private sector arms, Adeso connects, designs, and scales solutions that empower communities. Recognized as a leader in decolonizing aid, Adeso fosters a collaborative, inclusive environment, making it an ideal workplace for Kenyan professionals passionate about transformative change.

Key Responsibilities

The Operations Officer will provide cross-cutting support to ensure seamless operations across Adeso’s nonprofit programs and for-profit enterprises. Key responsibilities include:

• Coordinate daily operational activities for Adeso’s programs, departments, and subsidiaries to ensure smooth execution.
• Process procurement, logistics, and administrative requests in alignment with internal procedures to maintain efficiency.
• Maintain organized records for operational processes, contracts, licenses, and regulatory submissions to ensure compliance.
• Lead procurement of goods and services, ensuring transparency, compliance, and value for money.
• Manage vendor relations, including contract execution and delivery tracking, to foster reliable partnerships.
• Support the development and enforcement of procurement policies and guidelines to standardize processes.
• Reinforce a tracking system for local and HQ procurements on behalf of Adeso and its subsidiaries.
• Ensure framework agreements are in place for major and high-value procurement items to streamline operations.
• Review vendor and contractor documentation, including invoices, delivery notes, and contracts, ensuring completeness and compliance.
• Coordinate with the Finance team to facilitate timely vendor and contractor payments.
• Develop and regularly update supplier lists to maintain a robust vendor network.
• Collaborate with unit team leaders and managers to create and update procurement plans.
• Oversee logistics for product/service delivery, inventory movement, and warehousing to support operational needs.
• Monitor inventory and ensure proper asset tracking across offices and field sites.
• Manage event and workshop logistics, including resource planning and follow-up, to ensure successful execution.
• Handle routine administrative tasks, such as office coordination, travel logistics, and documentation management.
• Track compliance with statutory requirements, including licenses, tax filings, and insurance, to meet regulatory standards.
• Contribute to policy development and periodic review of operational Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Support drafting, reviewing, and filing of contracts, agreements, and Service-Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Maintain records of legal and compliance documents for audits and reviews to ensure organizational readiness.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and propose actionable improvements to enhance workflows.
• Adopt tools and platforms to enhance workflow automation and operational efficiency.
• Participate in the documentation and rollout of new SOPs to strengthen systems.
• Serve as a liaison between operations and other departments to ensure cross-functional alignment.
• Provide regular updates on operational status, challenges, and compliance needs to keep stakeholders informed.
• Contribute to internal reporting and audit preparations to maintain transparency and accountability.

These responsibilities require a proactive mindset, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-entity environment. The role is pivotal in supporting Adeso’s mission to empower communities and drive systemic change.

Qualifications and Skills

To succeed in this operations jobs in Kenya role, candidates must demonstrate the following qualifications and skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Logistics, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in operations, administration, or compliance support within a private sector, startup, or social enterprise environment.
• Experience in drafting or reviewing contracts and Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) to ensure compliance.
• Familiarity with compliance standards and regulatory filings, such as licensing, tax, and vendor agreements.
• Exposure to procurement, asset management, and enterprise operations in both nonprofit and private sector contexts.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace; familiarity with document management or procurement platforms is a plus.
• Strong ability to prepare, organize, and maintain accurate documentation to support operational processes.
• Knowledge of contract terms, business documentation, and compliance tracking tools is an added advantage.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy in managing documentation and research.
• Proactive and solution-oriented, with a collaborative mindset to work across teams.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities in a dynamic work environment.
• Strong communication skills and professional discretion, especially when handling confidential agreements.
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, multi-entity environments to support diverse operational needs.
• Willingness to travel to field locations and support remote teams as needed.
• Fluency in English required; knowledge of Somali is an added advantage.

Preferred qualifications include experience in social enterprises or NGOs and familiarity with tools like procurement platforms or ERP systems. Candidates who excel in this role will demonstrate a commitment to operational excellence and a passion for Adeso’s mission.

Company Culture and Values

Adeso fosters a vibrant, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment rooted in the principles of solidarity, humility, self-determination, and equality. The organization is committed to creating a decolonized world where local leaders drive solutions. Employees are empowered to collaborate across teams, innovate, and contribute to systemic change. Adeso values diversity and inclusion, ensuring all voices are heard in a supportive setting. With a focus on professional growth, the organization encourages staff to take initiative, propose improvements, and engage in continuous learning. The Nairobi team operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, working together to build a better future for communities across Africa and beyond.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Operations Officer position. To submit your application, please send the following documents to Jobs@adesoafrica.org by 27th June 2025, with “Operations Officer” in the subject line:

1. Application letter (maximum 1 page) addressing the selection criteria, detailing how your experience aligns with the role’s objectives, your interest in the position, availability, and salary expectation.
2. Updated CV highlighting relevant work experience and qualifications.
3. Contact details of 3 references who can speak to your professional abilities.

Applications missing any of these components will not be considered. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Adeso is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. If you encounter any requests for payment, please report them to Adeso’s HR Department via the provided contact email.

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operations jobs in Kenya, Operations Officer Nairobi, social enterprise jobs Kenya, Adeso careers, procurement and logistics jobs

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Why This Role Matters

The operations jobs in Kenya sector is critical for organizations like Adeso, which bridge nonprofit and for-profit initiatives to drive systemic change. As an Operations Officer, you will ensure the seamless functioning of Adeso’s diverse portfolio, from humanitarian programs to innovative subsidiaries. Your work will directly support community-led solutions, empowering local leaders to address global challenges. This role offers a unique opportunity to align your career with a mission of equity, solidarity, and decolonization.

Career Growth in Operations

This position provides significant opportunities for professional development. By working across Adeso’s nonprofit and for-profit arms, you will gain expertise in procurement, logistics, compliance, and vendor management. The role’s exposure to diverse operational contexts, from field logistics to enterprise support, will prepare you for leadership positions in Kenya’s growing social enterprise sector. Adeso’s commitment to training ensures you will have access to resources to enhance your skills, from workflow automation to policy development.

Nairobi as a Hub for Operations Professionals

Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital, is a hub for operations jobs in Kenya, offering a dynamic environment for professionals. As the base for this Operations Officer role, Nairobi provides access to a thriving professional network, modern infrastructure, and opportunities to engage with leading social enterprises and NGOs. The city’s role as a regional center for innovation makes it an ideal location for career-driven individuals looking to make a difference.

Supporting Adeso’s Mission

Adeso’s mission to shift power to local leaders is at the heart of this role. By coordinating procurement, logistics, and compliance, you will enable Adeso to deliver impactful programs and scale innovative enterprises. Your work will support subsidiaries like Ladhan Investment Ltd and Kuja, which aim to confront the legacy of colonialism through community-led solutions. This role is a chance to contribute to a global movement for change.

Operational Excellence in a Multi-Entity Environment

The Operations Officer will work in a fast-paced, multi-entity environment, supporting both nonprofit programs and for-profit subsidiaries. This requires a high degree of flexibility, organization, and attention to detail. From managing vendor contracts to overseeing logistics for field operations, you will ensure Adeso’s systems are efficient and compliant. Your ability to identify inefficiencies and propose improvements will be critical to the organization’s success.

Procurement and Vendor Management

Procurement is a core component of this role, requiring transparency and compliance. You will lead the procurement of goods and services, ensuring value for money and adherence to internal policies. By managing vendor relations and updating supplier lists, you will build a robust network to support Adeso’s operations. Your expertise in reviewing contracts and processing payments will ensure smooth financial workflows.

Logistics and Supply Chain Coordination

The role involves coordinating logistics for product delivery, inventory movement, and warehousing. You will monitor assets across offices and field sites, ensuring proper tracking and management. By overseeing event and workshop logistics, you will contribute to the success of Adeso’s programs and initiatives, ensuring resources are available when needed.

Compliance and Legal Support

Compliance is a key focus of this role, requiring you to track statutory requirements like licenses, tax filings, and insurance. You will support the drafting and filing of contracts and SLAs, maintaining accurate records for audits. Your attention to detail and knowledge of compliance standards will ensure Adeso meets regulatory obligations across its operations.

Strengthening Systems and Innovation

Adeso is committed to innovation, and this role offers opportunities to enhance operational systems. By identifying inefficiencies and adopting tools for workflow automation, you will contribute to the organization’s efficiency. Your participation in developing and rolling out SOPs will strengthen Adeso’s operational framework, ensuring scalability and impact.

Collaboration Across Teams

As a liaison between operations and other departments, you will ensure cross-functional alignment. By providing regular updates on operational status and contributing to internal reporting, you will keep stakeholders informed and engaged. Your collaborative mindset will be essential in fostering teamwork and driving Adeso’s mission forward.

Preparing for Success

To excel in this operations jobs in Kenya role, focus on honing your skills in procurement, logistics, and compliance tracking. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and procurement platforms will give you an edge. A proactive, solution-oriented approach and strong communication skills will help you thrive in this dynamic environment.

The Impact of Your Work

Your role as an Operations Officer will have a direct impact on Adeso’s ability to deliver community-led solutions. By ensuring operational efficiency, you will enable Adeso to scale its programs and enterprises, empowering local leaders and communities. This position is a chance to contribute to a better, more equitable future for Africa and beyond.

Joining a Global Movement

By joining Adeso, you will become part of a global movement to decolonize humanitarian and development systems. This role offers opportunities to collaborate with civil society leaders, funders, and NGOs, gaining insights into innovative approaches to change. Your work in Nairobi will connect you to a broader mission of global impact.

Application Process Details

To ensure a successful application, carefully prepare your documents before submitting. Your application letter should clearly address the selection criteria, highlighting your experience in operations and your passion for Adeso’s mission. Your CV should detail relevant work experience, including any exposure to social enterprises or NGOs. Ensure all documents are sent to Jobs@adesoafrica.org by the 27th June 2025 deadline, with “Operations Officer” in the subject line.

Why Choose a Career with Adeso?

Adeso is a leader in social enterprise and humanitarian innovation, offering a unique platform for professionals to make a difference. As an Operations Officer, you will work with a diverse, passionate team committed to equity and solidarity. The organization’s focus on diversity, inclusion, and professional growth ensures a supportive environment where your contributions are valued.

Final Notes

This operations jobs in Kenya opportunity with Adeso is a chance to align your career with a transformative mission. By driving operational efficiency and supporting community-led solutions, you will play a critical role in Adeso’s success. Prepare your application carefully, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in social enterprise operations.

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