The Royal African Society, established in 1901, is one of the UK’s oldest and most respected institutions dedicated to promoting a deeper understanding of Africa and fostering stronger relations between the UK, Africa, and the wider world. Through conferences, cultural festivals, publications, and policy dialogues, the Society brings together business leaders, artists, academics, policymakers and civil society to showcase Africa’s achievements and address its challenges.
More information can be found on our websiteand in our Annual Reports.
ROLE PURPOSE
The Head of Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for ensuring the effective, compliant and sustainable operation of the Royal African Society. The Head of Operations provides strategic and operational oversight across people, finance, governance, systems, partnerships and delivery, enabling the Society to fulfil its charitable mission and strategic objectives.
Working closely with the Director/CEO, Council and Council sub‑committees, the Head of Operations ensures organisational resilience, strong governance, financial stewardship and operational excellence—particularly during periods of growth, transition and increased public profile.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Head of Operations
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic & Operational Leadership
* Lead and oversee the day-to-day operations of the Royal African Society, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and charitable objectives.
* Translate Council and Director/CEO decisions into effective operational plans, systems and delivery frameworks.
* Act as a key strategic partner to the Director/CEO, providing senior operational insight, risk awareness and organisational intelligence.
* Support organisational growth, change management and long-term sustainability.
* Support effective charity governance in line with Charity Commission guidance and best practice.
* Provide senior operational support to the Council and its sub-committees, including:
* Nominations & Governance
* Finance, Audit & Risk
* Maintain and develop organisational policies, procedures and controls, including HR, financial, safeguarding, data protection and risk management.
* Oversee organisational risk registers and contribute to audit and assurance processes.
* Oversee operational financial management, ensuring strong internal controls, delegated authorities and compliance with charity finance regulations.
* Work closely with the Admin & Finance Manager and Treasurer to support budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management and reporting.
* Manage procurement, contracts and value-for-money assessments across suppliers and service providers.
* Oversee third-party consultants and contractors, ensuring clear scopes, performance management and cost control.
4. People, HR & Organisational Culture
* Provide senior leadership for people management, organisational culture and staff wellbeing.
* Line-manage senior operational roles, including:
* Admin & Finance Manager
* Membership Growth & Engagement Manager
* Events Manager
* African Arguments Intern
* Oversee recruitment, onboarding, performance management and staff development processes.
* Ensure HR policies and practices reflect equality, diversity, inclusion, fair pay and good employment standards.
* Lead volunteer recruitment, onboarding, management and safeguarding in line with best practice.
5. Programmes, Events & Delivery Oversight
* Provide operational oversight for RAS programmes, public events and flagship initiatives, including Film Africa and anniversary programming.
* Manage high-level events consultants and programme delivery partners.
* Ensure effective planning, risk management, resourcing and post-event evaluation across all activities.
* Embed learning and continuous improvement into programme delivery.
* Support the Director/CEO in fundraising strategy implementation, funder stewardship and donor relationships.
* Manage operational relationships with funders, sponsors, corporate members and partners.
* Ensure compliance with grant conditions, reporting and funder requirements.
* Support organisational reputation, credibility and stakeholder confidence through robust delivery and governance.
7. Systems, Digital & Infrastructure
* Oversee organisational systems, including CRM, membership platforms, finance systems and digital tools.
* Ensure data integrity, GDPR compliance and effective use of technology to support growth and efficiency.
* Support digital communications and content workflows in collaboration with editorial and communications staff.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Role title: Head of Operations
Reports to: Director & CEO
Location: London (hybrid) Remote and onsite working at the Royal African Society offices at SOAS,
London, WC1H 0XG (as well as RAS public events)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Holiday: 27 days+ Bank Holidays
Contract type: Permanent
PERSON SPECIFICATION
* Significant senior operational leadership experience in the third sector, charity or mission-led organisation.
* Strong understanding of charity governance, Charity Commission requirements and best practice.
* Proven experience of financial oversight, budgeting and internal controls.
* Demonstrable people management experience, including line management and organisational development.
* Experience managing complex stakeholder relationships, including boards, funders and partners.
* Excellent organisational, communication and decision-making skills.
* High levels of integrity, discretion and accountability.
* Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
* Alignment with the mission, values and purpose of the Royal African Society.
* Experience working with councils, trustees or non-executive boards.
* Experience managing public-facing programmes, cultural events or media-related initiatives.
* Knowledge of fundraising operations, grant management and donor stewardship.
* Experience working in or with African-focused, international or cultural organisations.
* Experience leading organisations through transition or growth phases.
* Familiarity with digital publishing, CRM systems or audience development platforms.
VALUES & BEHAVIOURS
* Commitment to inclusion, equity and respectful dialogue
* Collaborative, proactive and delivery-oriented
* Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach
* High levels of professionalism, integrity and discretion
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The Society is based at SOAS, University of London, and supports flexible and hybrid working. Remuneration aligns with the charity sector, and some evening/weekend work may be required during events (TOIL available). We are committed to an inclusive, diverse, collaborative working culture where African and diaspora perspectives are valued and centred.
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit a CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability to:
Director & CEO
ras_director@soas.ac.uk
Deadline: 5 PM (GMT) 19 th June 2026. Applications will however be considered on a rolling basis.
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
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