Country manager Suriname

PUM

2d • Remote

About The Position

As country manager in Suriname, 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 Suriname 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 your country? Are you excited about the challenges PUM is facing in Suriname? 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!

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree.
• At least 10 years of experience in a coordinating role and leading a commercial or acquisition-focused team.
• Strong fundraising capabilities through a thorough understanding of local donor opportunities.
• Strong local SME network and a deep understanding of business ecosystem development in Suriname.
• Familiarity with European work culture.
• Experience in remote collaboration within international organisations.
• Strong intercultural communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across departments and stakeholders.
• Proven leadership and accountability skills, with experience in performance management and stakeholder engagement.
• Willingness to travel occasionally within Suriname for project development visits, partnership meetings, and country team meetings.
• Strong focus on impact, quality, and measurable results.
• Comfortable using digital tools, including Microsoft 365.
• Fluent in Sranan Tongo and Dutch.
• Excellent command of English.
• Permanently based in Suriname.
• Available for 15 hours (0.4 FTE) per week.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Country Impact Plan (CIP) in line with PUM’s mission, strategy, and organisational ambitions.
• 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 Suriname.
• 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.
• Center on strengthening business ecosystems, based on strategic analysis and in line with PUM’s programmes.
• Establish partnerships and collaborate with wider networks of entrepreneurs, business organisations and other enabling organisations to advance business ecosystems.
• Build, lead, and coach the country representative team, safeguarding the quality and continuity of acquisition.
• Ensure team capacity, motivation, accountability, and performance through effective people management, including organising country team meetings (CTMs).
• Qualify new clients using assessment criteria that emphasise diversity, inclusion, and alignment with PUM’s green and social goals within business ecosystems.
• Approve project proposals, ensuring accurate and complete information so programme managers can identify the right expert match.
• Collaborate closely with programme managers to ensure alignment, shared goals, and successful projects.
• Occasionally, welcome and accompany visiting experts.
• Personally engage with clients after acquisition, ensuring continuity, quality of engagement, and strategic fit.
• Lead professional briefing and debriefing sessions to ensure quality assurance, data collection, and learning.
• Monitor performance and use data to share insights and improve results.
• Ensure compliance with organisational policies, quality standards, and project timelines.

Benefits

• Competitive fee aligned with local market standards.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Senior