Country Manager

• Lead the country acquisition team in Benin, consisting of five freelance country representatives
• Manage client relationships after acquisition, ensuring continuity, quality of engagement, and strategic alignment
• Report to the head of region and collaborate with country managers, programme managers, recruitment, and communications and partnerships teams
• Develop and implement the Country Impact Plan in line with PUM’s mission, strategy, and organisational ambitions
• Strengthen business ecosystems through strategic analysis and alignment with PUM programmes
• Establish partnerships with entrepreneurs, business organisations, and other enabling organisations
• Identify, develop, and secure funding opportunities from institutional donors, foundations, corporate partners, and other sponsors
• Foster strategic partnerships with SMEs and stakeholders through account management and ongoing engagement
• Build, lead, and coach the country representative team
• Ensure team capacity, motivation, accountability, and performance, including organising country team meetings
• Qualify new clients using diversity, inclusion, green-goal, and social-goal assessment criteria
• Approve project proposals and ensure accurate, complete information for expert matching
• Collaborate with programme managers to support successful projects
• Welcome and accompany visiting experts occasionally
• Engage with clients after acquisition to ensure continuity, quality, and strategic fit
• Lead briefing and debriefing sessions for quality assurance, data collection, and learning
• Monitor performance, share data-driven insights, and improve results
• Ensure compliance with organisational policies, quality standards, and project timelines

• Bachelor's or master's degree
• At least 10 years of experience in a coordinating role and leading a commercial or acquisition-focused team
• Strong local network of SMEs and deep understanding of business ecosystem development in Benin
• Familiarity with European work culture and remote collaboration within international organisations
• Strong intercultural communication skills
• Proven leadership, accountability, performance management, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience managing a remote team operating across the country
• Willingness to travel occasionally within Benin
• Strong focus on impact, quality, and measurable results
• Data-driven and comfortable using digital tools, including Microsoft 365
• Excellent command of English
• Fluent French
• Permanently based in Benin
• Available for 30 hours per week
• Reference checks and declaration of good conduct required as part of the selection process
• CV and motivation letter must be submitted in English

• Competitive fee aligned with local market standards
• Independent contractor arrangement
• Initial one-year assignment with possibility of extension based on organisational needs and successful collaboration
• Continuous learning through diverse people and cultures
• Professional network-building with institutional funders, government entities, and NGOs
• International exposure in a multicultural environment
• Opportunity to contribute to sustainable development and meaningful impact