Country Director – Nigeria

About the role

SNV is seeking a Country Director for Nigeria to build and scale its flagship programme. Based in Abuja with regular travel to Lagos, you will be the public face of SNV, driving business development, partnership creation and programme delivery across agri‑food, energy and water sectors.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the growth of SNV’s portfolio in Nigeria by positioning the organisation strongly in the market and securing funding.
• Develop and manage a pipeline of opportunities with embassies, donors, private sector partners and financial institutions.
• Translate partnerships into concrete projects, blended‑finance structures and donor‑funded programmes.
• Ensure programmes align with national priorities and global development agendas.
• Guide and mentor a local team of around ten staff, fostering alignment with SNV’s CARE principles.
• Represent SNV at senior levels with government, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders.
• Monitor market dynamics and turn insights into strategic positioning.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in international development or related sectors.
• Strong track record in business development, fundraising and partnership management.
• Excellent understanding of agri‑food, energy and water systems in Nigeria.
• Ability to work autonomously, travel frequently and manage a multidisciplinary team.
• Fluent in English; knowledge of local languages is a plus.

Required skills