Job description

Job Purpose

Lead the organization's strategy, programs, partnerships, people and operations to deliver measurable impact for young people and to secure the long-term financial sustainability of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy and Leadership

• Develop and deliver the organization's strategy and annual plans, as approved by the Board, ensuring alignment with INJAZ Al-Arab's strategy, plans, overall goals and assigned targets.
• Set clear goals, targets and key performance indicators, and track progress against them.
• Drive innovation and keep the organization responsive to changes in education, the labor market and youth needs.
• Align the organization's work with the standards, programs and priorities of the INJAZ Al-Arab and JA Worldwide network.

• Work closely with the Chair and the Board, and support effective governance and Board meetings.
• Provide the Board with regular, accurate reports on performance, finances, risks and opportunities.
• Prepare Board papers and implement Board decisions.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory and licensing requirements in Kuwait.

• Lead fundraising and resource mobilization to meet annual revenue targets.
• Build and manage strong relationships with private sector partners, donors, government bodies, schools and universities.
• Identify and secure new partnerships and multi-year funding.
• Ensure good stewardship of partners, including timely reporting and recognition.

• Oversee the quality and growth of programs in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness.
• Grow the number of students, schools, volunteers and partners reached.
• Monitor and report program results and impact using data and stakeholder feedback.
• Build a strong corporate volunteer base to deliver programs.

• Prepare and manage the annual budget, as approved by the Board.
• Ensure sound financial management, internal controls and transparent reporting.
• Manage risk and protect the reputation of the organization.
• Ensure efficient operations, systems and use of digital tools.

• Lead, develop and hold accountable the senior team and all staff, with clear roles, objectives and accountability.
• Build and sustain a values-based, inclusive and high-performing culture with strong team spirit, suited to an NGO environment.
• Foster a happy and engaged team, strengthen employee retention and maintain a low level of employee turnover.
• Lead recruitment, performance management, staff development and succession planning.

• Act as the main spokesperson of the organization with media, partners and the public.
• Represent the organization at national, regional and international events and network meetings.

• Bachelor's / master's degree is preferred.

• At least 10 years of professional experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in fundraising, partnerships and building relationships with the private and public sectors.
• Experience in managing budgets, teams and Board relations.
• Experience in the non-profit, education or youth development sector is an advantage but is not essential. Candidates with relevant private-sector leadership experience and transferable skills may also be considered.

• Strong strategic, leadership and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation and networking skills.
• Strong negotiation skills for effective stakeholder management and partnership development.
• Fluency in Arabic and English, written and spoken.
• Strong knowledge of the Kuwaiti business and public sector environment.
• High integrity and commitment to youth empowerment.