Special Projects Lead (Chief of Staff to the COO)

About ALX Africa

ALX Africa, a non-profit organisation under the ALX Foundation, is dedicated to unlocking the potential of Africa's digital future. Formerly part of Sand Tech Holdings, we've embarked on an independent journey to provide world-class tech skills training and career acceleration programmes. Our mission is to bridge the digital divide, upskill and reskill talent, and create a generation of innovative leaders. By 2030, we aim to empower 2 million Africans to secure sustainable tech careers.

With hubs in 8 cities across Africa and counting, we provide safe access to quality learning and a dedicated network of expert instructors. Our innovative programmes equip learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's rapidly evolving tech industry. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, industry partnerships, and hands-on projects, we prepare our students for in-demand roles in software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity.

We achieve this by:

• Providing young professionals with access to the most in-demand tech skills that will power the future.
• Empowering the next generation of technology innovators, entrepreneurs, and business leaders through challenging, real-world coursework.
• Building a lifelong, impactful community of tech professionals that supports them at all stages of their career journey.

Our impact thus far:

• 347k+ graduates since 2020
• 257k youth in work
• 31k youth starting own ventures
• 60k youth in jobs created by entrepreneurs

Role Summary

The Special Projects Lead will serve as a high-trust strategic and operational partner to the Chief Operating Officer (similar to a Chief of Staff). This person will help drive the COO's highest-priority initiatives, ensuring that critical cross-functional work moves from idea to execution with clarity, pace, and accountability. This is a role for a structured, highly resourceful operator who can move fluidly between strategy, execution, stakeholder management, problem-solving, and follow-through. The Special Projects Lead will work across all business functions and with Executive Leadership to keep business operations moving.

This role will function as a Chief of Staff-type partner to the COO, with a strong focus on strategic execution, cross-functional coordination, and delivery of ALX's high-priority initiatives.

Specific Responsibilities

Drive strategic projects for the COO

• Lead or support cross-functional projects across ALX.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear project plans, owners, and timelines.