ALX Hub Operations Specialist: Nairobi

Are you interested in working with communities delivering exceptional experiences? Would you describe yourself as a highly structured individual with fast learning abilities?  Are you highly collaborative with a knack for thriving in cross-functional duties? Does the prospect of supporting the development of a large-scale, highly innovative enterprise excite you?

ABOUT ALX AFRICA

ALX Africa, a non-profit organisation under the ALX Foundation, is dedicated to unlocking the potential of Africa's digital future. Formerly part of Sand Tech Holdings, we've embarked on an independent journey to provide world-class tech skills training and career acceleration programs. Our mission is to bridge the digital divide, upskill and reskill talent, and create a generation of innovative leaders. By 2030, we aim to empower 2 million Africans to secure sustainable tech careers.

With hubs in 8 cities across Africa and counting, we provide safe access to quality learning and a dedicated network of expert instructors. Our innovative programs equip learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's rapidly evolving tech industry. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, industry partnerships, and hands-on projects, we prepare our students for in-demand roles in software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity.

ABOUT THE KENYA COUNTRY TEAM

The Kenya Team is responsible for empowering one of the largest learner and alumni communities at ALX. We operate primarily in the Nairobi Metropolitan Area but have a vibrant community of learners and alumni across all cities in Kenya.

ABOUT THE ROLE

ALX trains high-performing young talent in our various tech programs and fosters a thriving community that catalyzes transformative shared experiences among this talent. In 2023, ALX is transitioning from a fully online program to a blended program that combines online course content with in-person, on-site learning. This includes peer-to-peer support, in-person assignments, group work, technical mentorship, and events. This blended approach is expected to lead to better learning outcomes and stronger relationships among learners. To make this a reality, ALX opened its own tech hubs in multiple cities in Africa from May 2023. In Kenya, we have 4 Hubs across Nairobi. In 2025, we are looking open more spaces across the country.

The Hubs Operations Specialist will lead the expansion efforts, on opening ALX Tech  Hubs in different cities across the country. This will involve scouting for locations, contracting, working with construction project managers e.t.c. Additionally, oversee the operational management of all hubs, ensuring a seamless and efficient learning environment for our learners. This role encompasses IT support, facilities management, OPEX payments, and promptly addressing any operational issues that arise. By diligently attending to these tasks, the Hubs Operations Specialist guarantees a well-maintained and smoothly functioning learning space for our students.

The Hubs Operations Specialist will play a critical role in driving the expansion and efficient operation of ALX Tech Hubs across Kenya. This role will be responsible for identifying new locations, managing the build-out of hub spaces, and overseeing the daily operations of all hubs. The ideal candidate will ensure that each hub operates smoothly, is fully equipped, and provides a safe and supportive learning environment for all learners. The role requires strong project management skills, a keen eye for detail in facilities and vendor management, and a proactive approach to addressing operational challenges.

Hub Expansion

• Location Identification: Scout and select strategic locations for new ALX Tech Hubs in cities across Kenya.
• Contract Management: Lead the contracting process with property owners and service providers to secure new hub spaces.
• Project Management: Oversee the construction and setup of new hubs in collaboration with construction project managers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all necessary permits and regulatory approvals are obtained for new hubs.
• Budgeting & Cost Management: Monitor and control financial aspects related to hub expansion, including capital expenditures for construction and setup.
• Vendor Relations: Manage vendor and contractor relationships to ensure timely and efficient setup of new hubs.

Operations and Facilities Management

• Hub Operations: Oversee the day-to-day operations of all hubs, ensuring operational efficiency and timely resolution of any issues.
• Facility Maintenance: Ensure that all hub facilities are clean, safe, and well-maintained for learners, handling repairs and maintenance needs as they arise.
• OPEX Management: Track and manage operating expenses, ensuring timely payment for utilities, security, and other ongoing operational costs.
• Resource Management: Maintain an updated inventory of equipment and resources needed for hub operations.
• Health & Safety Standards: Ensure that all hubs comply with health and safety regulations, including emergency procedures and cleanliness.
• Learner Engagement: Create a welcoming environment that supports the learners' needs, addressing any issues that may arise in a timely manner.

Operational Troubleshooting: Respond quickly to operational challenges, ensuring minimal disruption to the learning process.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

• 5+ years of experience in managing the operations of multiple facilities, coworking spaces, or educational hubs.
• Experience with project management and leading expansion projects. 
• Bachelor’s degree or professional certifications in project management, operations management, business administration any relevant certification is a plus.
• Fluency in English (verbal and written).
• Facility Management: Strong understanding of facilities maintenance, health and safety regulations, and building operations.
• Vendor and Contractor Management: Experience negotiating and managing relationships with external vendors, contractors, and suppliers.
• Relationship-driven: highly skilled communicator with a strong customer service focus and desire to do what’s best for our customers at all times  
• Attention to detail: to ensure you deliver the best customer experience and promptly follow up on all the information they need
• Excellent communication and presentation skills: you can effectively articulate and communicate ideas both verbally and in writing
• Interpersonal skills: you have a collaborative mindset and can work well with others
• Humility and openness to feedback: you are always looking to learn and have an insatiable curiosity and hunger to grow
• Innovativeness and creativity: you have a tendency to use your imagination to create or introduce something new or different in any situation
• Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple hubs and expansion projects concurrently.
• Budgeting and Financial Management: Competence in managing budgets, operating expenses (OPEX), and financial reporting.

Please note that this role is being hired for the ALX entity.