Operations & Systems Manager

Altum Consulting is partnering with a start-up international climate-focussed NGO to recruit an Operations & Systems Manager.

The organisation is building the infrastructure to support its work. Its core systems are at different stages of development: some are operating, others have been piloted and need to be rolled out. This role will take those foundations forward, connecting systems, improving workflows and helping colleagues use them effectively.

This is a hands-on role in a start-up environment. You will need to be comfortable working with processes that are still taking shape, making practical decisions with limited resources and moving between planned projects and day-to-day problems. There is scope to shape how the organisation works, alongside the responsibility to get things implemented and keep them running.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director of Operations, your responsibilities will include:

• Leading the configuration, testing and rollout of operational systems, including project management, CRM, finance and grants management platforms.
• Mapping processes and data flows, identifying where systems should connect and where automation could reduce manual work.
• Developing a practical improvement plan, prioritising changes according to organisational needs, resources and risk.
• Improving data quality, reporting and knowledge management so colleagues can find and use reliable information.
• Supporting colleagues through training, clear guidance and day-to-day troubleshooting.
• Managing relationships with external IT providers and specialist suppliers, setting expectations and following through on delivery.
• Maintaining appropriate system access, controls and documentation.
• Picking up wider operational queries, supplier management and other practical tasks as required.

Requirements

• Experience taking systems from an early configuration or pilot stage through to rollout and established use.
• Experience building or improving systems and processes in a start-up, small business or developing organisation. Charity or NGO experience is welcome but not essential.
• Hands-on experience with one or more platforms such as Asana, HubSpot, Sage or Fluxx.
• The ability to map processes, understand data flows and translate colleagues' needs into workable solutions.
• A practical understanding of integrations, APIs, automation and AI, with the judgement to identify when specialist technical support is needed.
• Experience coordinating external IT providers and suppliers, managing delivery and resolving issues.
• Strong organisational skills and the flexibility to balance project work with day-to-day operational needs.
• Clear communication, patience with colleagues of different technical abilities and confidence in challenging suppliers.
• A practical approach, with the ability to work independently, take ownership and deliver improvements with limited resources.

The role has no direct reports and will suit someone who enjoys delivering the work themselves while coordinating colleagues and external partners. While it is envisaged to begin as an initial one-year contract, given the start-up status of the organisation things could change and there could be a longer-term need beyond the first year.

For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact Altum Consulting.