The Gorta Group, trading as Self Help Africa, is an international development organisation established in 1984. It is dedicated to tackling hunger, poverty, inequality and climate change by supporting community-led, market-based and enterprise-focused agricultural development. The organisation believes that equitable economic growth is the key to lasting change, empowering communities to build better futures.

The Gorta Group is comprised of Self Help Africa, United Purpose, social enterprises Partner Africa and CUMO Microfinance (Malawi). 

Working primarily in sub-Saharan Africa, the organisation helps communities gain access to nutritious food, clean water, decent incomes and employment, while protecting natural resources. Its work focuses on building resilient food systems and healthy communities, supporting sustainable businesses and jobs, responding to crises, and strengthening policies that enable long-term economic development.

The Role

Reporting to the Chairperson and Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) holds ultimate responsibility for the strategic direction and day-to-day leadership of the organisation. The CEO is responsible for shaping and recommending the strategy of the organisation to the Board and leads its execution.  

They will provide strong leadership to the senior management team, ensuring the organisation continues to deliver sustainable support to communities, smallholder farmers, and agri-focused enterprises across programme countries. In addition, the CEO will play a key role in strengthening relationships with stakeholders, funders, and donors across the private sector, NGOs, and institutional partners.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the Group through a period of transformation and restructuring to deliver on the global strategy and the ambition for lasting sustainable impact.

The Person

The successful candidate will have significant experience at senior management level, in either the international charity or business sectors, with a strong strategic vision, exceptional leadership capability, and a proven record in developing, growing, or consolidating organisations. Candidates will have a strong understanding and experience of robust financial management alongside expertise in risk management, compliance, and regulatory requirements, complemented by excellent communication, presentation, and people skills. A deep commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the Gorta Group, along with the flexibility to travel internationally, is essential.