Chief of Staff - Sandton, South Africa - SPARK Schools

SPARK Schools

Verified Company

Sandton, South Africa

1 week ago

Posted by:

Thabo Mthembu

beBee Recruiter

Description

SPARK Schools is a social impact disruptor and is leading change in the education space through its network of affordable private schools.

The SPARK Schools network provides transformational education innovation through Africa's first blended learning model, which elevates student achievement and provides the tools teachers need to serve their students effectively.

The blended learning model, which combines classroom teaching and online instruction, allows teachers to anticipate student needs and equips schools to provide personalised education at an affordable cost.

SPARK Schools is pioneering this transformative education model to ensure the accessibility of university and careers for all.

SPARK Schools is a high-growth, mission and values-driven entrepreneurial organisation, operating 21 primary schools, 5 high schools and serving over 16,000 families in 2024.

We are looking for dynamic people to join our team.

Requirements:

Purpose of Role:

The Chief of Staff at SPARK schools serves as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to the CEO, supporting the organisation in achieving its mission of providing affordable, quality education.

This role is instrumental in driving operational efficiency, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and facilitating strategic decision-making outcomes across the SPARK Schools' network.

The Chief of Staff provides critical analysis, project leadership, and communication support to the CEO and executive leadership team, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and values while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

By leveraging their expertise in strategic planning, operational oversight, and leadership development, the Chief of Staff plays a pivotal role in advancing SPARK Schools' commitment to educational excellence, innovation, and community impact.

The Chief of Staff operates in a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) macro-environment that must be navigated to ensure continued alignment with the organisation's strategic goals and growth targets.

Reports To:
Chief Executive Officer

Responsibilities:

Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO, providing critical insights, analysis, and recommendations to support decisionmaking and execution of organisational priorities.
Collaborate with executive leadership to develop and execute strategic plans, identifying key priorities, milestones, and metrics to measure progress and success.
Monitor and evaluate organisational performance against strategic objectives, identifying areas for improvement and implementing initiatives to enhance operational effectiveness and efficiency.
Lead special projects and initiatives on behalf of the CEO, managing timelines, resources, and stakeholders to achieve desired outcomes and drive organisational success.
Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, representing the CEO's interests and ensuring consistent messaging and alignment with organisational goals.
Conduct research, analysis, and due diligence on key business issues and opportunities, providing the CEO with timely and relevant information to inform decisionmaking and drive results.
Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for the board of directors and shareholders, providing valuable insights and analysis on key performance indicators, financial metrics, and strategic initiatives.
Support the CEO in identifying and developing future leaders within the organisation, providing mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities to nurture talent and drive succession planning.
Oversee the daytoday operations of the CEO's office, ensuring seamless coordination and communication across departments and teams to drive efficiency and alignment with strategic objectives.

Qualifications and Criteria:

5+ years experience in a business management or executive role.
A bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, economics, marketing, or a related field is required.
An MBA or equivalent advanced degree in finance, marketing, or business analytics is advantageous.
Experience working in a similar capacity as a Chief of Staff or executive assistant to a CEO is a plus.
Prior consulting experience, with a focus on operations management, is preferred.

Competencies:

Strong analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information and draw actionable insights.
Strong financial analysis and budget planning & management skills.
Exceptional communication skills, encompassing proficiency in written and verbal communication, as well as strong reporting abilities.
Strong project management skills.
Sound business judgement, critical thinking and ability to influence others.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and discretion, ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.

Qualities: