Managing Director

About Abahizi CBC

Abahizi CBC is a for-profit social enterprise situated in Masoro, Rulindo, serving as Rwanda’s leading manufacturer of high-quality handbags supplied to the global fashion market. The company not only delivers exceptional products but is deeply committed to empowering over 90% women employees and uplifting the local community economically and socially. It has partnered with well-known global brands such as Kate Spade New York and Coach.

Role Overview

The Managing Director is accountable for the complete operational and commercial performance of Abahizi CBC. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, this leadership role includes overseeing daily business functions, ensuring high standards in production, quality, efficiency, and financial outcomes while also maintaining the company’s social mission. The MD builds and leads a capable team and acts as the primary liaison among the Board, workforce, clients, and partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage day-to-day operations covering production, supply chain, quality assurance, and logistics to meet customer and contract standards.
• Develop and institutionalize scalable and documented processes aimed at boosting productivity, minimizing waste, and accommodating business growth.
• Guarantee consistent on-time product delivery and quality, resolving challenges proactively.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant Rwandan laws, labor regulations, health and safety standards, plus international and buyer-specific requirements.
• Own all commercial outcomes including revenue, profit margins, and order pipelines to secure business competitiveness and sustainability.
• Explore and acquire new customers, markets, products, and contracts to enhance revenue streams aligned with the company’s mission.
• Maintain and strengthen key customer and partner relationships, negotiating effectively to ensure reliability and professionalism.
• Take full financial responsibility, managing budgets, cash flow, costing, and financial reporting with strong internal controls and transparency.
• Balance commercial revenue with grants and other funding sources to promote long-term financial independence for the company.
• Set strategic direction with the Board, establishing annual objectives, plans, and performance targets.
• Identify risks and opportunities for growth, making necessary adjustments based on market and operational shifts.
• Recruit, mentor, and retain capable management and wider workforce, building leadership and fostering a positive workplace culture.
• Promote fair employment practices, employee wellbeing, and career development consistent with company values.
• Ensure ongoing social impact by monitoring and reporting on benefits to employees and the community.
• Represent the company in external relationships with funders, government bodies, development partners, and community stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with the Board by providing transparent information, recommendations, and implementing decisions with integrity.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or related field; Master’s degree (MBA) preferred.
• 8 to 10 years of senior leadership experience, preferably with general management/executive roles in manufacturing or production settings.
• Proven success managing operations including production, supply chain, quality control, and timely delivery at scale.
• Strong financial management skills including budgeting, growth, and commercial performance.
• Experience integrating business goals with social/community impact objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate customer relationships and secure new contracts.
• Experience working within Rwanda or similar operational environments highly valued.

Skills and Personal Attributes

• Excellent operational and commercial decision-making with entrepreneurial drive and results focus.
• Practical, hands-on leader capable of managing details while maintaining strategic vision.
• Deep commitment to social empowerment, particularly supporting women and families.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building capabilities.
• Integrity, sound judgment, and cultural awareness.
• Fluent in English and Kinyarwanda; some proficiency in French is advantageous.

Application Process

Candidates interested in this position should send a CV and cover letter describing their suitability to the provided email addresses by 23rd July 2026. Abahizi CBC promotes equal opportunity employment and encourages all qualified individuals to apply.