Director for Strategy and Chief of Staff / Directress for Strategy and Chief of Staff

Purpose of the Role

Oak Foundation is currently seeking a Director for Strategy and Chief of Staff to work directly with the President. The President leads the day-to-day operations of the foundation, reporting to the Chair and the Board of Trustees. The Director for Strategy and Chief of Staff is a senior, cross-cutting leadership role, working closely with the President and Trustees to advance the Foundation’s strategic priorities and strengthen alignment, learning, and collaboration across the organization.

This role carries significant management responsibilities, including the line management of 11 staff members, and oversight of teams/functions responsible for organizational strengthening, safeguarding, impact, monitoring, evaluation, learning, and Trustee support, as well as the work of the Zimbabwe office and Oak Foundation Denmark.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic advice and support to the President and Trustees.
• Translate organizational priorities into clear plans and coordinated action.
• Lead Foundation-wide strategic initiatives and organizational change.
• Anticipate opportunities, risks, and emerging developments that may affect the Foundation or its work, while strengthening collaboration and alignment across programs and functions.
• Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to the President by providing analysis, insights, and recommendations.
• Translate Trustee and President direction into actionable plans, identifying priorities, facilitating decision-making, and helping to strengthen the leadership team.
• Manage strategic partnerships with other foundations and partners, representing Oak externally when required.
• Lead the President's Office and country office teams.
• Provide strategic oversight for key Foundation-wide meetings and events, including facilitation and organization.
• Support and conduct other tasks as requested.

Position Requirements

• At least 12 years of relevant professional experience.
• Significant experience advising senior leaders and working with leadership teams.
• A strong track record of leading strategic initiatives and organizational change.
• Experience managing geographically dispersed, cross-cultural teams.
• Excellent strategic, analytical, project management, and communication skills.
• High emotional intelligence, sound judgment, and discretion.
• An inclusive, collaborative, and solutions-focused leadership style.
• Excellent English; strong French would be an advantage.
• Willingness to travel internationally approximately three to four times per year.
• Demonstrated commitment to the values of Oak Foundation.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.