Job Overview


We seek a detail-oriented professional passionate about ensuring smooth operational functions within a dynamic cultural environment.
The Head of Operations will oversee the efficient management of the museum’s facilities, utilities, and security while also supporting event logistics and travel coordination. 
This role is essential to ensure the seamless functioning of the museum’s physical and operational infrastructure, and to maintain a safe, efficient, and well-managed environment for staff, visitors, and collections.


Key Responsibilities

Facilities & Utilities Management:


Oversee the maintenance and functionality of museum buildings, conservation labs, exhibition spaces, and office areas.
Manage utility services, including electricity, water, and HVAC systems, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
Establish and oversee maintenance protocols with MEP suppliers, ensuring all servicing equipment is up to date.
Coordinate with the collections management team to regulate climatic controls and generate facility reports in adherence to object care regimes and loan agreements.
Ensure compliance with safety, health, and operational standards.


Security, Safety & Risk Management:


Supervise security teams and implement protocols to protect assets, staff, and visitors.
Develop emergency preparedness plans, including evacuation and disaster response procedures.
Conduct risk assessments and ensure adherence to regulatory compliance.
Review and select appropriate building insurance providers to ensure adequate coverage for facilities and assets.


Events & Travel Support:


Oversee the logistics for exhibitions, conferences, artist residencies, and public programs, working with the Travel & Logistics Manager, project leads and external vendors
Ensure venue readiness, vendor coordination, and on-site operational support.
Oversee domestic and international travel arrangements for staff, researchers, and visiting guests.
Oversee the travel and events management team, ensuring coordination, early risk identification and management, troubleshooting and staff development


Vendor & Contractor Management:


Manage contracts and relationships with service providers, including facility maintenance, cleaning, and security firms.
Negotiate service agreements to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.
Monitor contractor performance and enforce institutional standards.


Compliance, Budget Oversight & Staff Training:


Ensure all operations align with regulatory and legal requirements.
Manage operational budgets, optimize resource allocation, and improve cost efficiency.
Oversee procurement processes and asset management.
Develop and enforce building management standards and procedures, including training staff on best practices, with support from the HR team.


Key Qualifications


A Bachelor’s or postgraduate Degree in Engineering, Facility Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in facility management and/or operations, preferably within a cultural institution, university, corporate services or hospitality sector.
Strong leadership and problem-solving skills with experience managing teams and external vendors.
Good knowledge of health, safety, and security protocols.
Excellent vendor negotiation and contractor management skills.
Excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities.
Ability to work collaboratively across departments and engage with diverse stakeholders.


Terms and Conditions


Reporting Line: Executive Director
Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria
Contract Type: Indefinite, subject to performance
Compensation & Benefits: Highly Competitive, subject to credentials


Career Growth, Training & Development 

MOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post offers exposure and hands-on experience on ways of working global institutions across MOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates. By joining our team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on ground-breaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career.