Head of Systems and Operations for Zambia

Role overview

People in Need Zambia is looking for a Head of Systems and Operations to be based in Lusaka for a one-year assignment, with a possibility of extending the contract. The start date will be mutually agreed. This position reports to the Country Director.

About the organization

People in Need is a Czech-founded international NGO that has been delivering humanitarian and development support since 1992. The organization works across more than 20 countries and focuses on helping vulnerable communities, supporting civil society, advancing human rights, and encouraging social inclusion.

In Zambia, the organization has operated since 2017. Its main office is in Mongu in Western Province, and its programming covers nutrition, agriculture, livelihoods, education, WASH, and energy.

Purpose of the role

The Head of Systems and Operations will work under the Country Director to strengthen and supervise finance, logistics, and HR systems. The role is responsible for making sure procedures are clear, harmonized, and aligned with organizational and donor requirements, while also leading staff development across the support functions.

Key responsibilities

• Align systems and operations with the country strategy and ensure all procedures are carried out transparently and in line with donor and organizational rules.
• Bring consistency to operational processes across finance, HR, and logistics.
• Maintain strong coordination between support teams and programme teams.
• Monitor the overall financial and operational efficiency of the country programme, identify weaknesses and risks, and put corrective measures in place.
• Oversee support-function budgets, strengthen planning and coordination, and contribute to support needs for new projects.
• Guide the finance team so budgeting, cash movement, and accounting activities work smoothly together.
• Support logistics staff in office administration, fleet oversight, procurement, and stock/asset management, including related planning and budgeting.
• Lead HR planning and implementation, including capacity-building plans, onboarding, training, leave administration, allowances, and performance reviews.
• Manage the local support team and promote ongoing professional growth through development plans.
• Keep key support policies current and adapted to the operating context.
• Ensure adherence to local rules and legal obligations related to visas, taxation, and labour law.

Requirements

• A university degree in Finance, Economics, Logistics, Public Administration, Law, or a closely related subject is preferred.
• Strong prior experience managing systems, finance, logistics, administration, and HR.
• Experience working with senior leadership to help define country-level strategy and ensure operations enable programme delivery.
• Solid background in financial management, including budgets, reporting, and donor compliance.
• Practical knowledge of logistics and procurement systems, including assets, fleet planning, and donor-compliant procurement.
• Experience handling HR processes such as recruitment, capacity development, staff appraisals, and salary scale administration in line with local laws and internal policies.
• Proven ability to build and develop teams across logistics, procurement, finance, and HR.
• Strong problem-solving skills for managing operational challenges in demanding field settings and maintaining efficiency under pressure.
• Ability to build a cooperative team culture based on respect, transparency, accountability, and effective communication.
• Excellent spoken and written English.
• Strong computer skills, including advanced MS Excel and hands-on experience with accounting and financial software.

Salary and benefits

The role follows the organization’s salary scale and HR policies. Expected gross salary is between EUR 3,250 and EUR 3,750 per month, depending on experience.

Additional monthly subsistence allowance: EUR 1,395.

Accommodation is provided by the organization, or a housing allowance is available.

Leave entitlement includes 25 days of annual leave and 10 sick days.

Travel-related support includes reimbursement of travel to the country of residence once every 6 months of work, as well as visa and vaccination costs. Assistance is also provided with the visa process.

Medical support includes reimbursement of pre-deployment and post-deployment medical checks, travel health insurance with medical coverage including repatriation, 24/7 online medical support, and free online psychological consultations.

Professional development support includes free access to e-learning platforms and the PIN Learning Hub, a global induction, and tailored learning opportunities, including Hostile Environment Awareness Training where relevant.

Application and conditions

Applicants are asked to submit a CV and a short cover letter through the application form. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and interviews may be held on a rolling basis until the post is filled.

The organization applies strict standards to prevent sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse, misconduct, and financial irregularities, and it expects all staff to work in line with its code of conduct and policies. Appropriate training will be required.

Employment is subject to satisfactory references and screening checks, which may include criminal record checks and terrorism finance checks.

The organization promotes diversity and gender equality and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds.

Working context

This position offers the opportunity to work in a well-established humanitarian organization in a challenging environment.

Additional note

The posting also references a similar vacancy for Head of Operations in Ethiopia.