Chief of Staff

Prefered skills

Social Media, Management, Digital Marketing, Presentations, Operations, MailChimp, Problem Solving, Project Management, Scheduling Tools, Sales

Job description

We're looking for an exceptional generalist to work directly with our leadership team as we scale multiple ventures and brands this year. This isn't a traditional PA role, it's a Chief of Staff position for someone who wants to be in the thick of building, creating, and executing across everything we do.

You'll be the right hand to our CEO, helping manage the chaos of running multiple companies, overseeing projects, coordinating teams, and making sure nothing falls through the cracks. If you're someone who thrives on variety, can handle multiple priorities, and wants to learn how businesses are built from the inside, this is for you.

What You'll Actually Do
Communication & Relationship Management

• Draft and send emails on behalf of leadership
• Reach out to potential partners, investors, and collaborators
• Schedule and coordinate meetings across multiple time zones
• Manage calendars and ensure everyone is where they need to be
• Run email marketing campaigns and manage our communication pipelines

Content & Proposals

• Help create content for social media, newsletters, and marketing materials
• Put together compelling proposals and pitch decks
• Prepare briefing documents and reports
• Support with presentation materials and documentation

Operations & Project Management

• Oversee team members across different brands/companies
• Track progress on key projects and initiatives using project management tools
• Ensure deadlines are met and deliverables are completed
• Coordinate between different teams and stakeholders
• Manage workflows and systems to keep everything running smoothly

Strategic Support

• Attend meetings and capture action items
• Research opportunities, competitors, and industry trends
• Help think through problems and solutions
• Be a sounding board for ideas and decisions

General Problem-Solving

• Handle the unexpected issues that come up daily
• Find solutions to whatever needs solving
• Make work easier and lighter by anticipating needs
• Be the person who just gets things done

Who You Are
The Non-Negotiables:

• Exceptional communicator (written and verbal)
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Self-starter who doesn't need constant direction
• Comfortable with ambiguity and fast-paced environments
• Trustworthy and discreetyou'll be in the room for everything
• Tech-savvy and experienced with digital tools

Technical Skills Required:

• Proficient with project management tools (Asana, Trello, Monday.com, ClickUp, Notion, or similar)
• Experience with email marketing software (Mailchimp, HubSpot, SendGrid, or similar)
• Comfortable with CRM systems and sales pipelines
• Strong Google Workspace / Microsoft Office skills
• Familiar with social media management and scheduling tools
• Quick learner with new software and platforms
• Bonus: Experience with design tools (Canva, Figma) or automation tools (Zapier, Make)

The Ideal Candidate:

• Has worked in startups or fast-growing companies before
• Understands how to prioritize when everything feels urgent
• Can switch between strategic thinking and tactical execution
• Thrives on variety and doesn't get bored easily
• Has great instincts about people and situations
• Writes well and can adapt tone for different audiences
• Isn't afraid to challenge ideas or push back when needed
• Savvy with technology and comfortable setting up and managing systems

Bonus Points:

• Experience in venture capital, startups, or entrepreneurship ecosystems
• Background in operations, consulting, or project management
• Comfortable creating content and managing social media
• Knowledge of the African tech/startup landscape
• Experience managing or coordinating teams
• Understanding of marketing automation and growth tools

What You'll Learn
This role is an unparalleled learning opportunity. You'll:

• Get insider access to how multiple businesses are built and scaled
• Learn fundraising, venture building, and ecosystem development
• Build relationships with founders, investors, and industry leaders
• Develop skills in strategy, operations, communication, and leadership
• Understand what it takes to run not just one, but multiple companies
• Master the tools and systems that power high-growth ventures

What We Offer
Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience
Growth: This role can evolve based on your strengths and interests. Whether you want to specialize in operations, venture building, or eventually start your own company, you'll have the exposure and mentorship to get there.
Impact: You won't be fetching coffee or doing busy work. You'll be involved in real decisions, real strategy, and real execution.
Environment: Work directly with our leadership across Akha Ventures and our portfolio companies. You'll have access to our Sandton office space and be part of our vibrant entrepreneurial community.
Flexibility: We value output over hours. If you can get things done efficiently, we respect your time.
Tools & Resources: Access to premium software tools and platforms to do your job effectively

Time Commitment
Full-time position based in Johannesburg (Sandton office)
How to Apply
Send us:

• A brief email to amanda@akhaventures.co.za (not a formal cover letter) telling us why you're interested and what makes you great at this kind of work
• Your CV/resume highlighting your experience with relevant tools and systems
• An example of something you've written (email, proposal, articleanything that shows how you communicate)
• A quick note about which project management and email marketing tools you've used

We're looking for someone who can start ASAP and hit the ground running.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Work Location: In person