Chief Executive Officer — Aga Khan Foundation Kyrgyz Republic

Location: Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic | On-site

Expected start date: 1 January 2027

Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) Kyrgyz Republic is seeking an experienced, strategic and values-driven Chief Executive Officer to lead its country operations and shape the organisation’s next phase of development.

This is a senior leadership role combining strategic direction, organisational leadership, resource mobilisation, program oversight and stakeholder engagement.

The Aga Khan Foundation 

The Aga Khan Foundation is a leading global development organisation working to tackle the root causes of poverty.

For more than 50 years, we have helped create strong community institutions that support sustainable, locally-driven initiatives to improve the lives of millions of people.

Rooted in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, our staff have unique insights into the complex challenges people face today as well as the opportunities for tomorrow. By combining local knowledge with global best practices, we strive to bring about transformative and long-lasting improvements to the quality of life. Taking a generational approach, we have built the trust required to do this work even in the most fragile contexts. 

Our programmes aim to ensure infants have the best possible start in life; families are healthy and well-nourished; children and young people can access quality learning opportunities and grow to fulfil their potential; and adults can develop future-facing skills so they can gain employment or start their own businesses. We believe women and girls should not be limited in their choices or opportunities and are dedicated to fostering inclusive communities in which all voices are heard and valued. As our climate changes, we are working with the communities we serve, and especially farmers, to adapt to its challenges and opportunities and contribute to a healthy planet.

But the issues we face are evolving rapidly. To meet them, we use innovation to empower communities to develop new solutions that can be quickly tested and refined ensuring they are relevant, feasible, and sustainable.

Working alongside the agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network – comprising hospitals, schools, universities, businesses and climate and cultural programmes around the world – we have access to a unique breadth of resources and in-depth know-how. And through partnerships with local communities, civil society and business as well as governments and international aid agencies we are working to expand opportunity for everyone.

We are building a future where we all thrive together. 

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead the country strategy and organisational priorities
  • Drive resource mobilisation, fundraising and strategic partnerships
  •  Oversee the program portfolio, ensuring quality, impact and accountability
  • Lead and develop the Senior Management Team and organisational culture
  • Oversee Finance, Operations, HR, compliance, safeguarding and risk management
  • Build strong relationships with government, donors, development partners and AKDN stakeholders
  • Maintain effective coordination and alignment with AKF headquarters, regional structures and relevant donor units, ensuring strong communication, strategic coherence and timely reporting.
  • Represent AKF Kyrgyz Republic at senior national and international levels
  • Make sound and timely decisions in a complex and evolving environment

Candidate profile

We are looking for a leader with:

  • 10–15+ years of relevant experience, including significant senior leadership responsibility
  • Strong experience in international development, social impact or a comparable complex environment
  • Deep understanding of the Kyrgyz Republic and its stakeholder landscape
  • Proven experience in fundraising, resource mobilisation and partnership development
  • Experience managing teams, budgets, grants, contracts, risk and compliance
  • Strong government, donor and international stakeholder engagement experience
  • Excellent strategic, analytical and communication skills
  • Ability to lead through complexity and change with integrity and sound judgement
  • Fluency in Russian and English; Kyrgyz is a strong advantage
  • Master’s degree in a relevant field
  • Experience within AKF/AKDN is an advantage, but not essential.

 What success looks like

The CEO will be expected to strengthen the organisation’s institutional and financial sustainability, diversify resource mobilisation, maintain strong program delivery, develop a high-performing leadership culture and build trusted relationships with key stakeholders.

Compensation: Competitive remuneration package based on experience and qualifications. Details will be discussed during the selection process.

How to apply

If you are a purpose-driven leader with the experience and ambition to contribute to the long-term sustainability and impact of AKF Kyrgyz Republic, we would be pleased to hear from you. 

Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant leadership experience

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