Deputy CEO

Job Overview

Kafika House is seeking a dynamic and mission-driven Deputy CEO to serve as the

CEO’s principal partner and help lead the organisation into its next phase of growth

and impact. The role oversees day-to-day operations, drives implementation of

strategic and annual plans, and ensures strong governance, compliance, and

organisational performance.

As the delegated authority in the CEO’s absence, the Deputy CEO will also lead

engagement with key government and external stakeholders while working closely

with the leadership team to strengthen coordination and effectiveness. This is a

hands-on leadership role for someone who excels in both strategy and operations.

Who can lead with passion and empathy, and who has a proven track record of

delivering results.

Importantly, this position is designed as a leadership progression pathway: the

successful candidate will join as Deputy CEO with a clear, intentional plan to transition

into the CEO role.

Key Responsibilities

Organisational Leadership

• Lead implementation of strategic and annual work plans.
• Ensure efficient, accountable operations across all teams.
• Oversee annual budgeting and alignment with priorities.
• Maintain and strengthen governance systems and policies.
• Support recruitment and retention of senior staff.
• Foster a professional, collaborative, mission-driven culture.

External Relations & Compliance

• Lead engagement with select government stakeholders and ensure full regulatory compliance.
• Support management of donor, partner, and stakeholder relationships.
• Oversee key reports, proposals, and organisational submissions.
• Represent the organisation in selected external forums.

Executive Partnership with the CEO

• Act as delegated authority in the CEO’s absence.
• Provide analysis and recommendations for executive decision-making.
• Track organisational priorities and ensure timely follow-through.
• Coordinate board and executive meeting preparations.
• Prepare high-level internal and external communications.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, public health, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum five years of senior management or executive leadership experience, ideally in the NGO or nonprofit sector.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage complex projects, and deliver results on time and within budget.
• Strong understanding of organisational operations, governance, and strategy implementation.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong project management, strategic analysis, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Skilled in delegation, conflict resolution, and fostering positive, high-accountability workplace culture.
• Able to work effectively in multicultural settings and lead diverse teams.
• High integrity, discretion, and professionalism, with a proactive, solutions-driven approach.
• Highly organised, adaptable, detail-oriented, and comfortable navigating change.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and meet the qualifications above, we encourage you to apply.

Swahili is an advantage but not a must