Requisition ID 35534 Office Country Benin Office City Cotonou Division Banking Countries of Operations Contract Type Regular Contract Length Posting End Date 13/04/2025
Are you a highly organized and detail-oriented professional with experience in office administration? Join the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) as an Office Manager in Cotonou, Benin, where you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of the Resident Office.
Please Note: This role is subject to EBRD obtaining approval to open an office in Benin. A conditional offer will be issued to the successful candidate, with a confirmed start date once approvals are in place.
Please make sure to submit your application and CV in English language.
About the Role
As an Office Manager, you will oversee all administrative functions, including office setup, property management, budgeting, HR coordination, IT support, and security. You will ensure that the office runs efficiently while supporting the Head of Office and visiting teams. This role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to handle confidential matters, and excellent communication with local authorities and external service providers.
Key Responsibilities
Office Management & Administration
- Support the establishment of the new Resident Office in Benin, coordinating with local authorities and EBRD teams.
- Manage office operations, including inventory, supplies, and maintenance.
- Liaise with the landlord and oversee lease agreements, security, and facilities management.
- Ensure IT and workstation setup for staff and visitors.
- Act as a local security focal point and maintain business continuity plans.
Finance & Budgeting
- Prepare and monitor the office budget, ensuring efficient financial management.
- Process payments, handle petty cash, and reconcile corporate credit cards.
- Oversee local supplier invoices and ensure compliance with financial controls.
HR & Administrative Support
- Assist with staff onboarding, accreditation, and visa processes.
- Maintain accurate HR records, including sick leave and medical insurance updates.
- Supervise administrative and support staff, providing training and workload coordination.
- Provide administrative support to the Head of Office and banking teams as needed.
What Weโre Looking For
- Education: Bachelorโs degree preferred, or equivalent experience in administration, finance, or office management.
- Experience: Previous experience in a senior administrative or accounting role, ideally in an international organization.
- Skills: Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of financial processes, office management systems, and IT coordination.
- Languages: Fluent in English and French; knowledge of local languages is an advantage.
- Personal Traits: High level of integrity, professionalism, and ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion.
Why Join Us?
- Work with a globally recognized financial institution.
- Be part of the establishment of a new office in an exciting market.
- Gain exposure to international business operations and best practices.
- Collaborate with high-level professionals in a dynamic work environment.
What is it like to work at the EBRD?
Our agile and innovative approach is what makes life at the EBRD a unique experience! You will be part of a pioneering and diverse international organisation, and use your talents to make a real difference to people's lives and help shape the future of the regions we invest in.
The EBRD environment provides you with:
- Varied, stimulating and engaging work that gives you an opportunity to interact with a wide range of experts in the financial, political, public and private sectors across the regions we invest in;
- A working culture that embraces inclusion and celebrates diversity;
- An environment that places sustainability, equality and digital transformation at the heart of what we do.
Diversity is one of the Bankโs core values which are at the heart of everything it does. A diverse workforce with the right knowledge and skills enables connection with our clients, brings pioneering ideas, energy and innovation. The EBRD staff is characterised by its rich diversity of nationalities, cultures and opinions and we aim to sustain and build on this strength. As such, the EBRD seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities and works in an inclusive environment. The EBRD encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of the EBRD member countries to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities. As an inclusive employer, we promote flexible working and expecting our employee to attend the office 50% of their working time.
Please note, that due to the high volume of applications received, we regret to inform you that we are unable to provide detailed feedback to candidates who have not been shortlisted (for further consideration).