Executive Director

About the Organization

RavelWorks Africa is managing an executive search for Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), a Pan-African feminist institution with more than four decades of work in feminist leadership and movement building. Through initiatives such as the African Women’s Leadership Institute (AWLI), advocacy partnerships, and cross-continental collaboration, AMwA has helped develop generations of leaders working for change in communities, institutions, and movements.

AMwA is entering a new stage of growth with its 2026–2036 Strategy, which expands its focus on transformative feminist leadership, collective power, and social change across Africa and beyond. The organization is seeking an experienced, visionary Executive Director to guide this transition and lead the next phase of impact.

Role Summary

The Executive Director will provide overall organizational leadership at the crossroads of feminist movement building, institutional stewardship, and external influence. The position is responsible for shaping strategy, strengthening organizational effectiveness, ensuring long-term sustainability, and maintaining AMwA’s credibility and influence across Africa.

Key Priorities

• Translate AMwA’s long-term strategic direction into action and results.
• Build a strong organizational culture anchored in leadership, accountability, and shared responsibility.
• Expand partnerships and strengthen AMwA’s reach and credibility within feminist ecosystems.
• Grow and diversify resources to support long-term financial sustainability.
• Manage relationships with the Board, staff, partners, and wider movement stakeholders.
• Guide the organization through transition while preparing it for future growth.

Ideal Candidate Profile

AMwA is looking for an African feminist leader who combines vision with execution. The right person will understand feminist movement work and organizational leadership, have experience building partnerships and raising resources, and be comfortable navigating complex political and organizational environments.

Core Qualifications and Experience

• At least a Master’s degree, or an equivalent qualification, in Social Sciences, Gender Studies, Development Studies, Leadership, Public Policy, or a related discipline.
• Between 7 and 10 years of senior leadership experience, including more than 5 years in executive-level leadership within feminist or women’s rights settings.
• Practical fundraising experience with a strong record of securing grants and developing donor relationships.
• Experience managing complex organizations, networks, or multi-stakeholder initiatives.
• Background in leading organizational transition, growth, or change processes.
• Strong political and contextual understanding across the African continent.
• Experience engaging with regional and global institutions and movement actors.
• English fluency is required; French or another African Union language is an added advantage.

Location and Working Arrangement

The role is based in Kampala, Uganda, and requires an initial relocation. After the transition period on site, a hybrid or remote arrangement with frequent travel to headquarters may be agreed upon. Candidates from across Africa and the diaspora who have strong ties to the continent are encouraged to apply.

What AMwA Offers

• Gross annual salary of USD 100,000 to USD 125,000, depending on grant and funding cycles.
• Medical insurance coverage.
• Gratuity benefits.
• Relocation support, housing assistance, and annual home-leave travel.
• Work permit processing and payment of related costs.
• A supportive environment that values diversity, inclusion, and flexible delivery-focused working arrangements.

Application Information

Interested and qualified candidates may apply by clicking the “I’m Interested” button or by using the provided application link. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The closing date is 2 August 2026.

Equity and Recruitment Commitment

AMwA welcomes applications from African and African diaspora women, gender-expansive persons, persons with disabilities, and candidates from historically marginalized communities. The organization assesses applicants based on demonstrated values and practice. This recruitment process is being handled by RavelWorks Africa on behalf of AMwA and is intended to be fair, transparent, and respectful.