Campus & Facilities Operations Manager

ABOUT ALU

At the African Leadership University (ALU), we're more than just an institution—we're a catalyst for transformation. Our mission is to develop a new generation of ethical and entrepreneurial leaders who will shape Africa's future. Through our innovative curriculum, focus on experiential learning, and vibrant pan-African community, we empower students to become changemakers, problem-solvers, and innovators. At ALU, we're not just teaching; we're nurturing the leaders who will drive Africa's progress and prosperity in the 21st century

We are dedicated to fostering an open yet secure environment, balancing the safety of students, staff, and visitors with respect for individual rights, and safeguarding responsibilities.

HOW WE WORK

The ALU Team works in starkly different ways to traditional academic bureaucracies. We approach education from first principles, empower individuals to design, test, and implement creative new ideas, and work closely together to craft transformative learning experiences. We are deeply passionate about our students and excited by the challenge of building something entirely new.

The African Leadership University is committed to ensuring the safety and Well-being of all students under our care. As part of this commitment , we have a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place , which outlines our Zero-tolerance approach to any violation of safeguarding.

ABOUT THE ROLE

A Campus & Facilities Operations Manager holds a pivotal role in managing the comprehensive operational activities of the campus environment. The primary responsibility is to ensure the efficient functioning of various aspects of campus operations, including facilities management, security protocols, and relevant administrative support services with a keen eye for optimal resource allocation and use. The role serves as a central point of contact for addressing operational issues, resolving conflicts, and implementing solutions to improve overall campus functionality.

In addition, the Campus & Facilities Operations Manager acts as an expert in all facilities-related issues to provide the best possible experience for all ALU stakeholders.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Real Estate Management

• Monitor, maintain, and manage campus and student housing needs, adapting to growth and changing stakeholder requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of staff and students for informed decision-making.
• Research, develop, and implement improvements to ALU real estate, ensuring a high-quality experience for all.
• Identify and co-create our opportunities and strategies for revenue generation from our campus and its facilities. 

Facilities Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor performance of service providers for efficient campus operations.
• Manage vendor relationships and contracts effectively.
• Oversee cleanliness, maintenance, and proper use of campus assets.
• Implement strategies to ensure high levels of security across campus.
• Oversee operational support for on-campus events and emergencies.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Monitor health and safety compliance with relevant stakeholders.
• Ensure regulatory and legal compliance for campus infrastructure.
• Collaborate with external consultants to enhance operational efficiency.
• Establish and maintain necessary certifications for ALU campus and student housing.
• Implement risk management strategies for campus activities.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Engage with local authorities and relevant bodies regarding campus and student housing needs.
• Act as a liaison between service providers, staff, students, alumni, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate building inspections and maintenance projects, ensuring proper documentation and regulatory compliance.

Project Management

• Design and manage campus projects aligned with ALU's vision.
• Conduct research, feasibility studies, and business cases to ensure service quality.
• Support, deliver, and implement various services needed for events and activities within ALU for all stakeholders.

Systems Building and Tracking

• Establish operational objectives and documentation for the department.
• Develop and implement efficient processes and systems across all operations.
• Implement crisis simulations and emergency procedures.
• Manage departmental budgets, procurement processes, and technology utilisation.
• Collaborate with University Hospitality to optimise office space utilisation and user experience. 

Financial Performance Management

• Monitor and report on department budgets and resource utilisation.
• Oversee contracts and service provider performance, ensuring optimal return on investment (ROI).
• Drive continuous improvement in customer service and operational efficiency.

Team  Management

• Influence and guide internal stakeholders who are required to deliver successful outcomes of the Operations team. 
• Coach, mentor, and lead the operations team to deliver consistent, high-quality service.
• Lead annual planning processes aligned with organisational strategy.
• Manage team performance, ensuring engagement and well-being.

Ensure the safety and well-being of all young persons and vulnerable adults with whom we deal,  by adhering to ALU’s comprehensive safeguarding policy, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to any violations of safeguarding standards. 

REQUIREMENTS 

We're looking for someone who is:

• An individual who can manage multiple details and several moving parts,  with exceptional project management skills; someone who enjoys managing complex logistics and ensures a seamless experience for all stakeholders within the scope of this role.
• A strong communicator with the ability to build positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• A resourceful problem-solver who can anticipate and address challenges effectively.
• Adept at collaborating with diverse teams to ensure seamless event execution.
• Ability to understand and manage technical skills such as electricians, landscape architects, building codes, etc.
• A proactive individual with a strong service orientation, driven by creating order and structure in a dynamic environment. 
• A people leader able to identify individual strengths within the team and find solutions to support the development and collective success of the team. 

Essential:

• At least 5-7  years of working within a similar team in a fast-paced, multinational environment within a technical area of expertise within the facilities management scope of work. 
• Proven experience in project management, procurement and/or logistics roles.
• Strong understanding of contract management and procurement processes.