Executive Secretary (AFCONE)

About the role

The Executive Secretary serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the AFCONE Secretariat, providing independent leadership to advance the African Commission on Nuclear Energy’s vision, mission and work programme. Based in Pretoria, South Africa, the role oversees all Secretariat activities and ensures effective communication with the Commission, the Conference of States Parties and partner organisations.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the AFCONE Secretariat, supervising staff and coordinating daily operations.
• Implement the AFCONE Programme of Work and monitor progress against strategic objectives.
• Manage financial resources in line with approved policies and host‑country agreements.
• Develop and execute strategic fundraising plans, prepare proposals and report to the Commission and partners.
• Facilitate communication of programme results to the Commission, Conference of States Parties and external stakeholders.
• Support the Chairperson, Vice‑Chairperson and Commission members in the exercise of their functions.
• Maintain accurate records of Commission activities and ensure compliance with governance standards.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in an international or intergovernmental secretariat.
• Strong understanding of nuclear energy policy and related regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large, multidisciplinary teams and complex budgets.
• Excellent strategic planning, fundraising and stakeholder‑engagement skills.
• Independence, integrity and the capacity to operate autonomously.

Required skills