Chief Executive Officer- INJAZ Kuwait

Job Purpose

Lead the organization's strategy, programs, partnerships, people and operations to deliver measurable impact for young people and to secure the long-term financial sustainability of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy and Leadership

- Develop and deliver the organization's strategy and annual plans, as approved by the Board, ensuring alignment with INJAZ Al-Arab's strategy, plans, overall goals and assigned targets.

- Set clear goals, targets and key performance indicators, and track progress against them.

- Drive innovation and keep the organization responsive to changes in education, the labor market and youth needs.

- Align the organization's work with the standards, programs and priorities of the INJAZ Al-Arab and JA Worldwide network.

Governance and Board Relations

- Work closely with the Chair and the Board, and support effective governance and Board meetings.

- Provide the Board with regular, accurate reports on performance, finances, risks and opportunities.

- Prepare Board papers and implement Board decisions.

- Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory and licensing requirements in Kuwait.

Fundraising and Partnerships

- Lead fundraising and resource mobilization to meet annual revenue targets.

- Build and manage strong relationships with private sector partners, donors, government bodies, schools and universities.

- Identify and secure new partnerships and multi-year funding.

- Ensure good stewardship of partners, including timely reporting and recognition.

Programs and Impact

- Oversee the quality and growth of programs in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness.

- Grow the number of students, schools, volunteers and partners reached.

- Monitor and report program results and impact using data and stakeholder feedback.

- Build a strong corporate volunteer base to deliver programs.

Finance and Operations

- Prepare and manage the annual budget, as approved by the Board.

- Ensure sound financial management, internal controls and transparent reporting.

- Manage risk and protect the reputation of the organization.

- Ensure efficient operations, systems and use of digital tools.

People and Culture

- Lead, develop and hold accountable the senior team and all staff, with clear roles, objectives and accountability.

- Build and sustain a values-based, inclusive and high-performing culture with strong team spirit, suited to an NGO environment.

- Foster a happy and engaged team, strengthen employee retention and maintain a low level of employee turnover.

- Lead recruitment, performance management, staff development and succession planning.

Representation and Communication

- Act as the main spokesperson of the organization with media, partners and the public.

- Represent the organization at national, regional and international events and network meetings.

Qualifications and Experience

Education

- Bachelor's / master's degree is preferred.

Experience

- At least 10 years of professional experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

- Proven track record in fundraising, partnerships and building relationships with the private and public sectors.

- Experience in managing budgets, teams and Board relations.

- Experience in the non-profit, education or youth development sector is an advantage but is not essential. Candidates with relevant private-sector leadership experience and transferable skills may also be considered.

Skills and Competencies

- Strong strategic, leadership and decision-making skills.

- Excellent communication, presentation and networking skills.

- Strong negotiation skills for effective stakeholder management and partnership development.

- Fluency in Arabic and English, written and spoken.

- Strong knowledge of the Kuwaiti business and public sector environment.

- High integrity and commitment to youth empowerment.