Country Manager Sahel

Country Manager Sahel (Mali & Burkina Faso)

As Country Manager Sahel (Mali & Burkina Faso), you understand the crucial role strong business ecosystems play in driving economic growth, social inclusion, and sustainable development. You bring a solid local network of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and partners, combined with proven experience in programme management and team leadership. The funding for our projects ends in 2028 and consequently, the focus of this role will be to safeguard the future of PUM in the Sahel for the longer term. You will therefore play an active role in our fundraising efforts. Do you thrive on building meaningful partnerships, leading a result-driven team, and creating lasting impact across Mali & Burkina Faso? Are you excited about the challenges PUM is facing in the Sahel? This is your opportunity!

About PUM 

PUM is a unique organisation committed to making a positive impact on a global scale. With a network of 1,200 skilled voluntary experts, we collaborate with ambitious entrepreneurs in 26 countries and 12 programmes, sharing expertise to strengthen business ecosystems and create economic, social, and environmental value. We work closely with SMEs, as well as the organisations that support them. We believe in the power of collaboration and in the magic that happens when diverse perspectives come together; Together we grow!   

The role 

You will lead the country teams in Mali & Burkina Faso, consisting of 4 country representatives on a freelance basis who engage change-driven SMEs to participate in PUM's impactful programmes. You hold end-to-end responsibility for client relationship management after acquisition, ensuring continuity, quality of engagement, and strategic alignment. You will be part of the Africa regional team, reporting to the head of region and collaborating closely with 15 other country managers in the region, 12 programme managers, as well as other departments such as recruitment and communications & partnerships. Your daily activities will be varied and challenging:

• You develop and implement the Country Impact Plan (CIP) in line with PUM’s mission, strategy, and organisational ambitions. 

• You identify, develop, and secure funding opportunities from institutional donors, foundations, corporate partners, and other possible sponsors, contributing to the sustainability and growth of PUM's impact in Mali & Burkina Faso.

• You foster strategic partnerships with SMEs and stakeholders through proactive account management and ongoing engagement, building trust and long-term impact, while expanding PUM's visibility, credibility and country influence. 

• You center on strengthening business ecosystems, based on strategic analysis and in line with PUM’s programmes. You are able to establish partnerships and collaborate with wider networks of entrepreneurs, business organisations and other enabling organisations to advance business ecosystems.

• You build, lead, and coach the country representative team, safeguarding the quality and continuity of acquisition. 

• You ensure team capacity, motivation, accountability, and performance through effective people management, including organising country team meetings (CTMs). 

• You qualify new clients using assessment criteria that emphasise diversity, inclusion, and alignment with PUM’s green and social goals within business ecosystems. 

• You approve project proposals, ensuring accurate and complete information so programme managers can identify the right expert match. 

• You collaborate closely with programme managers to ensure alignment, shared goals, and successful projects. Occasionally, you will welcome and accompany visiting experts. 

• You personally engage with clients after acquisition, ensuring continuity, quality of engagement, and strategic fit. 

• You lead professional briefing and debriefing sessions to ensure quality assurance, data collection, and learning.  

• You monitor performance and use data to share insights and improve results.  

• You ensure compliance with organisational policies, quality standards, and project timelines. 

Who are you? 

As country manager, you combine strategic vision with operational excellence. You understand the challenges that local SMEs face and know how to translate entrepreneurial ambition into tangible impact. Does this sound like you? 

• You are a proactive, hands-on and strategic thinker with a bachelor's or master's degree. 

• You bring at least 10 years of experience in a coordinating role and leading a commercial or acquisition-focused team. 

• You have a strong local SME network and a deep understanding of business ecosystem development in your countries/region.

• You are familiar with European work culture and experienced in remote collaboration within international organisations. 

• You demonstrate strong intercultural communication skills and collaborate effectively across departments and stakeholders. 

• You have proven leadership and accountability skills, with experience in performance management and stakeholder engagement. 

• You are experienced in managing a remote team operating across the countries. 

• You are willing to travel occasionally within Mali & Burkina Faso for project development visits, partnership meetings, and country team meetings. 

• You are strongly focused on impact, quality, and measurable results. 

• You thrive in an organisation in growth and transition and enjoy contributing to further professionalisation. 

• You are data-driven and comfortable using digital tools, including Microsoft 365. 

• You have excellent command of English and speak French fluently. 

• You are permanently based in Mali and available for 30 hours per week. 

What we offer   

This assignment is offered on an independent contractor basis with an expected commitment of approximately 30 hours per week, up to a maximum of 1,440 hours per year. The initial assignment is for one year, with the possibility of extension based on organisational needs and a successful collaboration. You will receive a competitive fee aligned with local market standards, reflecting the responsibilities and scope of the role. As an independent contractor, you are responsible for your own taxes, social security contributions, insurance and any other statutory obligations that apply in your country of residence. Reference checks and a declaration of good conduct are part of the selection process. At PUM, we celebrate diversity and inclusion as essential pillars of our organisation. We embrace the uniqueness of each individual, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive by being their authentic selves.   

Ready to make a difference? Join us!  

Becoming a country manager at PUM isn’t just a career move; it’s a chance to drive meaningful change. Working at a volunteer organisation like PUM offers extra fulfilment. In addition to the benefits mentioned, here’s what else awaits you:   

• Building a brighter future: Contribute to the sustainable development of communities, cultivating a profound sense of fulfilment 

• Optimal knowledge utilisation: Put your expertise to its best use, making tangible impact on businesses worldwide.  

• Continuous learning: Embrace new perspectives and gain insights by connecting with diverse people and cultures.  

• Building a professional network: Collaborate with a vast network of stakeholders, including institutional funders, government entities, and NGOs.  

• International exposure: Immerse yourself in a multicultural environment, broadening your horizons. 

Apply now and be part of something truly meaningful! 

Get inspired by one of our successful projects within our Field crops & Beekeeping programme in the Sahel: Improving beekeeping techniques in Burkina Faso - PUM 

In the case of a high volume of applications we reserve the right to close the vacancy early and begin interviews before the deadline on 28 September 2026. Please submit your CV and motivation letter in English.