WAVE is solving what is arguably the biggest challenge on the continent: youth unemployment. In West Africa, 40-85% of youth, more than 50 million, are unemployed or underemployed. Meanwhile, job creation in the region is on the rise. The disconnect between work-ready youth and the employment market must be bridged.
WAVE gets young people ready for work and connects them to the right entry-level jobs. Since 2013, they have trained over 3,000 unemployed youth and transitioned over 70% of them into employment, entrepreneurship, or education/training opportunities that double their incomes within one year. More broadly, WAVE aims to “re-wire” Nigeria’s education-to-employment system by facilitating collaboration between employers, educators, and the government to develop industry-relevant competencies that ensure a successful transition into the labor market.
WAVE’s vision is a world where every young African has access to the skills and opportunity to become what they imagine.
About the role
WAVE is looking for a Chief Executive Officer who will set strategic direction, drive organizational growth, and foster partnerships with stakeholders to enhance the employability of underserved youth across West Africa. The CEO will be based in Lagos, Nigeria, and be expected to travel regularly.
Key dimensions of the role
Key responsibilities for the incoming CEO include:
- Program Oversight
- Donor Relationship Management
- Financial Oversight
- Board Management
- Movement Building
- Stakeholder management
Skills and experience
This role requires a visionary leader with a strong background in program management, strategic leadership, and a passion for social impact, particularly in education and workforce development.
The ideal candidate will:
- Be a dynamic, hands-on leader
- Possess exceptional problem-solving skills
- Hold a track record in strategic leadership
- Have a strong background in program management
- Have experience in donor relationship management
- Have strong communication skills
- Excel at team building and creating an inclusive, collaborative work environment
- Have a passion for WAVE’s mission and social impact, particularly in education and workforce development
- Have a commitment to WAVE’s values of: putting people first; integrity; accountability, willingness to learn; paradigm change
Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Millar Cameron, we are dedicated to supporting our clients in building and supporting diverse and inclusive workplaces and culture, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Since 2007 Millar Cameron has specialised in sourcing leadership and keyperson talent across a number of industries, including agribusiness, international development, industrial, consumer, financial and professional services, private equity, and technology, media and telecommunications. Our mission and purpose is to positively contribute to the development of Africa, and other emerging markets, through the provision of people.