The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Southern Africa (AHK Southern Africa) is part of the worldwide network of German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHK) with 150 locations in 93 countries. It was founded in 1952 and since then has supported around 600 member companies in their international business as an important platform for bilateral economic exchange.
With offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Maputo and Lusaka, the Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SAGCC) has been facilitating the establishment of business links between Southern Africa and Germany since 1952 by supplying information on the economic situation in both regions, bringing together potential trade partners, and offering a wide range of other services. Additionally, the SAGCC has more than 500 member companies and represents the interests of these companies in the region of Southern Africa. At our offices in Johannesburg, we are seeking, at the earliest possible entry date.
About the position
The Deputy CEO is a member of the management team, reporting to the CEO, responsible for a broad range of Chamber activities that entail, but are not limited to, the following areas of responsibility:
- Business Development. Consistent development of the SAGCC’s range of services for German companies and local members. The role includes developing new business areas, acquiring new projects, and expanding on opportunities for the continued growth of the Chamber, ensuring that the SAGCC is positioned as an innovative and competent service provider in Germany and Southern Africa.
- Development of Regional Activities including navigating economic changes within 12 SADC countries of responsibility.
- Prepare and implement strategic plans and budgets.
- Represent the SAGCC in the economic and political spheres in Germany and Southern Africa, at any and all events, functions, roundtables, delegations, webinars etc., including speeches and presentations in both English and German.
- Foster cooperation within the German Chambers of Industry and Commerce network and other associations and government agencies in Southern Africa and Germany.
- Work closely with Board of Directors and maintain close communication with over 500 member companies of the AHK, actively representing and advocating for the interests of businesses operating in Southern Africa.
- Responsible for various Competence Centres within the SAGCC, including P&L responsibility, personnel supervision, and development, strategic planning, etc.,
- Overall SAGCC responsibility including representing the CEO in her absence.
Required qualifications
- University degree, with a focus on economics, international relations, law, communications, or related subjects.
- 10+ years of relevant professional experience in foreign trade promotion, sales, and in working with public bodies in politics and business, associations, and institutions.
- Prior experience in managing budgets, particularly in generating revenue or grant funding to meet budgets.
- Energetic and visionary leader with extensive personnel management experience and intercultural skills.
- 3+ years of relevant professional experience in the region of Southern Africa.
- Intimate understanding of German Federal Ministry procedures and related institutional requirements, including a solid understanding of the Southern African and German business markets.
- Experience within the AHK Network beneficial.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in German (C2) and English.
- Knowledge of MS Office programs.
- Ability to build, maintain, and extend industry-specific networks.
- Ability to present to an audience/extensive communication skill.
- Willingness to travel, locally, regionally and abroad.
What we offer
We offer an autonomous, internationally driven working environment within an experienced and friendly team of overall 36 employees. Employment is in the form of a standard South African contract. Competitive salary and great benefits.
Please send your CV, earliest availability and salary expectation (gross yearly income) to Ms Bronwyn Groenewald (bronwyn@talenttac.co.za) by 28.October 2024.
If you have not heard from us within 2 weeks after the deadline has passed, please consider your application unsuccessful