Support Services Manager

General

APOPO is seeking a proactive and results-driven Support Services Manager to lead and strengthen our support systems across Ukraine. This is a key role within APOPO’s Ukraine Program, responsible for ensuring that HR, procurement, logistics, finance/admin, IT, and facility management are efficient, compliant, and responsive to the operational needs of our humanitarian mine action activities.

APOPO is an innovative international non-profit organization that uses the exceptional sense of smell of animals to detect landmines, tuberculosis, and other hazards. For over 28 years, APOPO has helped save lives and create sustainable change around the world.

Learn more at www.apopo.org.

About the position

As Support Services Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across all support service functions in Ukraine, ensuring systems are efficient, cost-effective, and compliant with donor and local requirements.

You will lead and support staff in HR, logistics, administration, and field coordination, ensuring seamless communication and coordination between Kyiv headquarters, the Krasylivka Dog Training Center, and oblast field teams.

You will play a critical role in maintaining functional systems that enable program delivery, including staff well-being, procurement efficiency, asset control, and compliance with national regulations and donor rules. The position requires both strategic insight and hands-on engagement, including regular visits to APOPO’s field locations.

We are looking for an adaptable and dynamic person who thrives in complex and fast-paced environments, is committed to operational excellence, and understands the realities of working in Ukraine’s current context. Prior experience in humanitarian mine action or similarly regulated sectors is a strong advantage.

Your profile

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in at least two support service areas (HR, procurement, logistics, or administration), including at least 2 years in a managerial position.
• Proven experience managing and developing national teams.
• Understanding of Ukrainian labour law.
• Experience working in NGOs or INGO environments is desirable.
• Experience in mine action or similarly complex operational settings is an asset.

Skills

• Strong leadership and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent understanding of compliance and operational processes.
• Ability to build and motivate multicultural teams.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Proactive, flexible, and able to manage competing priorities.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written); knowledge of Ukrainian is desirable.

Key responsibilities

Human Resources & Safeguarding

• Oversee HR practices to ensure compliance with Ukrainian law and APOPO standards.
• Support the HR Officer in recruitment, contracts, payroll, and staff development.
• Promote safeguarding, staff well-being, and workplace safety across all sites.

Procurement, Logistics & Asset Management

• Lead procurement and logistics operations in line with APOPO and donor rules.
• Ensure supply chain systems are efficient and transparent.
• Maintain accurate asset management, fleet, and warehousing systems.
• Oversee supplier performance and value-for-money practices.

Financial & Administration

• Support the Finance Manager in ensuring compliance of expenditures.
• Oversee office administration, IT, and facilities management.
• Provide timely, accurate operational data and reports.

Field & Program Support

• Strengthen coordination between Kyiv, Krasylivka, and oblast offices.
• Support operational teams with logistical and HR needs.
• Conduct field visits to ensure compliance, staff support, and operational efficiency.

Leadership, Representation & Compliance

• Line manage functional leads across support areas.
• Lead system improvements, standardization, and team development.
• Represent APOPO with authorities, donors, and partners as required.
• Uphold APOPO’s values: quality, innovation, social transformation, diversity, solidarity, and animal welfare.

What we offer

This is a leadership role with meaningful impact and high visibility within APOPO’s Ukraine operations. We offer a competitive compensation package aligned with international NGO standards, together with the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization making a tangible difference. The position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine, with regular travel to field locations. The ideal start date is as soon as possible.

APOPO’s commitment

APOPO is committed to safeguarding the well-being of all individuals and animals we work with. All staff must uphold APOPO’s safeguarding policies, promote a safe and respectful environment, and fulfill safeguarding responsibilities appropriate to their roles. Background checks, including reference and qualification verifications, form part of the recruitment process.

We are an equal opportunity employer. APOPO celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.

How to apply

How to apply

Interested candidates are invited to apply by completing the online form and uploading the following documents in PDF format: CV and a 1-page cover letter.

The application deadline is November 4, 2025. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within two weeks after the deadline, your application was not successful this time.