Head of Business | Burundi | Executive

This is a rare opportunity to take full ownership of a country operation within a global shipping group. You will shape strategy, build operations from the ground up, and drive sustainable profitability in an emerging market.

The role carries full accountability for leadership, commercial performance, and operational excellence across agency and principal activities. It requires a hands-on executive who can balance strategic direction with practical execution in a complex operating environment.

You will be responsible for establishing and scaling the local business, delivering against agreed budgets and KPIs, and ensuring strong governance, compliance, and financial discipline. This includes full P&L ownership, working capital management, and continuous improvement of processes, cost efficiency, and organisational effectiveness.

The client is a well-established international shipping organisation with a strong footprint across global and emerging markets. Known for disciplined operations and long-term investment, the business is expanding its regional presence and requires senior leadership to drive growth and stability in Burundi.

What You’ll Do

• Establish and operationalise the local office, including premises and staffing

• Lead and grow the business through the execution of agreed commercial strategies

• Deliver budget, scorecard, and business plan targets across all activities

• Own full P&L responsibility and manage financial exposure and working capital

• Drive operational efficiency, process optimisation, and cost control

• Ensure compliance with local tax, regulatory, and labour requirements

• Manage cash flow and maintain the financial stability of the operation

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing leadership team

• Anticipate risks and proactively address performance, market, or people challenges

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree

• Minimum 10 years’ senior commercial and leadership experience within liner/container shipping or a related industry

• Proven P&L ownership and financial management capability

• Strong understanding of equipment management, ports, and terminal operations

• Experience or exposure to emerging markets

• Excellent command of English with strong communication and influencing skills

• Strategic mindset combined with a pragmatic, execution-driven approach

What Success Looks Like

• A fully operational, compliant, and efficient country office

• Sustainable revenue growth and improved profitability

• Strong financial controls and working capital discipline

• Engaged, capable leadership team with a clear succession pipeline

• Delivery of strategic objectives in a challenging market environment