Finance and Operations Director

The Finance and Operations Director is a critical leadership role at the Akilah Institute, a pioneering nonprofit in Rwanda committed to reimagining education for young leaders. As we embark on a new chapter after 15 years of impact in higher education, we are seeking a values-aligned, detail-oriented, and systems-driven leader to help us rebuild and launch innovative programs.This role goes beyond financeoverseeing core administrative systems, operational infrastructure, IT, facilities, and physical assets. You will help lead the organization through a season of transformation by strengthening internal processes, aligning resources with mission, and building a strong operational foundation for our next phase of growth.We are a small and collaborative team, and this role is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic, evolving environment and is eager to learn about Holacracya system of decentralized governance and self-management. You’ll receive onboarding and coaching to thrive within this model, which values shared leadership, transparency, and clarity of purpose over hierarchy.The ideal candidate is an adaptive, resourceful leader who brings both strategic insight and a willingness to roll up their sleeves. You’ll bring a strong financial background, but also the operational chops to manage people, systems, and projects across multiple functions.Key ResponsibilitiesFinance & BudgetingLead the annual budgeting and forecasting process, providing financial visibility across all areas of the organization.Produce timely, clear financial reports for internal stakeholders, board members, and funders.Monitor and manage cash flow, restricted funds, and cross-border financial operations (Rwanda and US).Ensure tax compliance and audit readiness for both Akilah and its US-based foundation.Operations & AdministrationStrengthen and manage administrative systems, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and internal workflows across departments.Oversee procurement, asset tracking, and vendor relationships to ensure cost-effective and mission-aligned operations.Oversee maintenance and infrastructure for all physical spaces, ensuring safe, welcoming environments for staff and students.Ensure all IT, communications tools, and technology systems are functional, secure, and aligned with organizational needs.Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure compliance with Rwandan and international laws, tax codes, and regulations.Lead internal and external audits, implementing best practices in financial and operational controls.Identify and mitigate risks across finance, administration, procurement, and infrastructure.Team Leadership & CultureParticipate actively in Holacracy, embracing clear roles, distributed authority, and collaborative governance.Provide training, mentoring, and accountability for administrative and finance team members.Foster a culture of operational excellence, shared responsibility, and continuous improvement.Strategic SupportContribute to strategic planning and implementation of new programmatic initiatives.Work closely with the Executive Director and Board to align financial strategies with organizational goals.Support fundraising by preparing financial reports for grants, donors, and institutional partners.Qualifications & Attributes RequiredBachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field.Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior financial or operations role, preferably in a nonprofit, education, or international context.Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, budgeting, and reporting.Proficiency in QuickBooks and Excel; strong tech literacy across productivity and project management tools.PreferredCPA, ACCA, or advanced degree in a related field.Experience managing cross-border finances or compliance (especially US 501c3 and Rwanda).Familiarity with procurement systems, IT oversight, or facilities management.Personal AttributesSystems thinker with strong attention to detail and organizational skills.Adaptable and excited to work in a fast-changing, purpose-driven environment.Emotionally intelligent, self-aware, and open to continuous learning.Comfortable with ambiguity and complexity; thrives in collaborative, non-hierarchical settings.Why This Role is DifferentAt Akilah, we believe leadership should be shared, and decision-making should be distributed. That’s why we use Holacracy, a governance system that gives team members clarity, autonomy, and responsibility. You won’t be reporting up a chain of commandyou’ll be working alongside passionate colleagues in clearly defined roles with real accountability and voice.If you're excited to join a small team making a big impactand you’re ready to build something transformative from the ground upwe’d love to hear from you.