Case Study: Scaling Operational Impact
Nicki Hallé : Nov 28, 2025
Leaders Placed. Futures Shaped. Impact Delivered.
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Client: Pan-African Education Network
Role: Chief Operating Officer
Challenge: Launching a continent-wide school network with complex cultural and regulatory demands
Outcome: A COO who scaled from ground zero, transforming operational capacity and building sustainable growth.
Background
In 2025, a social impact organisation launched a network of academies to transform education across Sub-Saharan Africa. Their mission was to equip the next generation of African leaders with the skills to drive sustainable change.
Challenge
With such ambitious growth, the organisation faced the challenge of building robust systems from scratch in diverse geographies. They needed a Chief Operating Officer (COO) with strategic vision, hands-on execution experience, and the ability to navigate different regulatory frameworks and cultural norms.
The ideal candidate will bring proven experience in the following areas:
- Designing Scalable Operations: Building and implementing replicable frameworks and integrated systems to support multi-site growth
- Driving Performance with Data: Leveraging analytics to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and inform strategic decision-making
- Leading High-Performing Teams: Fostering a culture of accountability and excellence across diverse, cross-functional teams
- Managing Financial Strategy: Overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation in alignment with organisational objectives
- Engaging Key Stakeholders: Collaborating with NGOs, educators, and strategic partners to advance the organisation’s mission in education at scale
Traditional talent pipelines alone could not deliver this profile; a proactive, targeted search was essential.
Approach
A comprehensive, pan-African and global search was undertaken to find a COO who could serve as both an operational leader and a co-architect of the organisation’s growth. The search included targeted outreach, assessment frameworks, scenario-based testing, and
thorough referencing.
Executive Search
The search focused on finding a COO who could serve not only as an operational leader but as a co-architect of the organisation’s growth. The approach included:
- Targeted outreach to top-tier talent across Africa and the diaspora
- Assessment frameworks evaluating leadership style, cultural fit, and operational agility
- Scenario-based testing and thorough referencing to ensure candidates could thrive in high-autonomy roles
The final appointment brought a leader with the depth of operational experience, regional insight, and a “builder’s mindset” needed to scale the organisation from the ground up.
Strategic Positioning & Employer Brand Advisory
Given the organisation’s limited visibility, it was essential to craft a compelling narrative to attract senior leaders. Messaging emphasised:
- The systemic ambition and pan-African reach of the organisation
- The chance to shape operational systems and culture from the start
- The long-term generational impact of the role within a values-driven, high-growth venture
This positioning successfully engaged senior talent who were inspired by purpose rather than actively seeking new roles.
The Outcome
Through the search, the organisation successfully appointed a COO who combined operational expertise, regional knowledge, and cultural adaptability. From day one, they were able to establish core operational structures, define team needs, and shape organisational culture. This hire marked a transformative moment, equipping the organisation with the leadership needed to scale its ambitious vision. Beyond the appointment, the process strengthened the organisation’s profile among senior leaders across Africa and the diaspora, positioning it as
a credible, high-impact destination for top talent.
Conclusion