About the Organisation
AfrikaBurn is the strategic driver of Burning Man culture in the Southern African region and plays a significant role in the arts and culture sector of South Africa. Most known for its flagship event in the Tankwa Karoo, as a public benefit organisation, AfrikaBurn is the human scaffold that helps a diverse creative community propel numerous arts and development projects.
About the Job
AfrikaBurn is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director for Operations (EDO). The position will be focused on managing general operations, reporting directly to the Board of Directors, and will work in tandem with the Executive Director of Development and the Executive Director for Culture.
We are looking for an experienced individual, who can effectively participate in collective governance, as well as independently organise, manage, and inspire. In particular, the EDO will have oversight of finance, compliance, information systems, land and property management, occupational health and safety, and event production.
The EDO will be responsible for the functional operations of the organisation, the collective development and execution of strategy, and productive engagement with a wide variety of stakeholders. Rooted in AfrikaBurn’s ethos, this position embodies servant leadership, prioritising collaboration, accountability, and the well-being of the community.
Key Responsibilities
Contribute to organisational strategy and structure, and ensure effective implementation
Provide strategic leadership and oversight of AfrikaBurn’s operational and financial systems
Oversee compliance and risk management, ensuring accountability and transparency
Manage financial planning, budgeting, and reporting.
Oversee land management and infrastructure development at AfrikaBurn’s Tankwa land
(Quaggafontein and Vaalfontein) and at AfrikaBurn’s Salt River headquarters
Lead IT systems, data management, and operational technology improvements
Build a constructive, supportive, happy team and working culture
Oversee financial budgets (long term, short term, and project specific), and monitor variances
Oversee the event production processes with support from the operations team, including ideation,
planning, budgeting, communications, and execution
Be the ultimate point of contact for the operations team and contractors, where they cannot resolve problems on their own
Monitor and report on key indicators of strategy actualisation
Take ownership of new projects, especially in relation to the Tankwa land
Develop policies and standard operating procedures, where those do not exist or where gaps exist
Requirements
At least ten years’ of experience in senior operational, general management, financial or project management roles.
Proven financial management ability of multi-departmental budgets including management financial reporting.
Relevant tertiary degree in finance, business management or project management advantageous
Knowledge of IT systems, databases, and digital workflows
Understanding of governance, compliance, and PBO/non-profit management in South Africa.
Based in – or able to relocate to – Cape Town, South Africa
Attended an AfrikaBurn Event
Experience with infrastructure or land management projects advantageous
Desired Traits
Embodies servant leadership - leading through service, empathy, and a commitment to collective success
Outcome-oriented, pragmatic and dependable
Analytical thinker who balances detail with strategy
Conscientious and grounded in integrity
Collaborative and respectful and driver of collective processes
Self-aware and self-reflective
Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage, motivate, and support a diverse range of passionate people and volunteers
Able to embrace the unknown and thrive in a pressured environment
To apply
To apply, email your application by Friday, 20th February to callum@actionappointments.co.za
