Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location: Abuja

Reports To: Group Head

Experience Level: 15 years+

Company: SAO Capital

Industry Focus: Multi-sector Consulting, Advisory, Investments, Energy, Agriculture, Capital & Project Management

Employment type: Full time

Our Company

SAO Capital is a social impact, investment & advisory group of companies with a focus on financial advisory, capital raising, and investment management services for institutions, governments, and government agencies. We are accretive to Africa’s and Nigeria’s economic development, targeting sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, SMEs, financial inclusion, healthcare and education. We partner with and serve communities, governments, and companies in Africa, providing an innovative mix of advisory, investment, research, analytics, and design services. Our business approaches problems differently and works together to create impact at scale. SAO is a place where a diverse mix of the most talented individuals can bring their authentic selves to work and innovate — whether it’s how you identify, where you come from, the languages you speak. SAO is a home where people feel safe, understood, nurtured and encouraged to grow. We have very exciting, diverse projects across our portfolio companies ranging from a N35 bn Infrastructure Bond Issuance, a US$60 m renewable energy project, US$45 m education infrastructure, US$100 m Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone amongst other projects.

Role Summary

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the highest-ranking executive with full strategic, operational, and fiduciary responsibility for the management of the Company. The CEO is mandated to provide effective leadership, ensure sustainable financial performance, and safeguard the long-term interests of shareholders. The role entails oversight of the Company’s investment activities, corporate governance structures, operational systems, and stakeholder engagements in accordance with applicable laws, regulatory requirements, and Board directives.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned business leader with over 15 years of experience in multi-sector consulting or advisory, strong managerial and operational capabilities, and a proven track record of driving organizational growth.

The CEO will play a critical role in shaping SAO Group’s future, ensuring alignment across business units, strengthening internal systems, building high-performing teams, and expanding the organization’s footprint in existing and emerging markets.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

  • Develop and implement the Group’s long-term strategic plan in alignment with its mission and market opportunities.
  • Provide visionary leadership to drive innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable impact across all subsidiaries.
  • Advise the Board on business performance, strategic priorities, investment opportunities, and emerging risks.

Operational Oversight

  • Oversee operations of all business units.
  • Ensure operational efficiency, financial sustainability, and smooth coordination between departments.
  • Establish and maintain strong governance structures, organizational systems, and reporting mechanisms.

People & Performance Management

  • Lead, mentor, and inspire senior executives and departmental heads to achieve organizational goals.
  • Build a high-performance culture that encourages accountability, innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
  • Approve recruitment for senior-level positions and oversee talent development across the Group.

Business Development & Stakeholder Management

  • Identify and pursue opportunities for expansion, investment, partnerships, and strategic collaborations.
  • Strengthen external relationships with investors, government agencies, industry partners, and key stakeholders.
  • Represent SAO Group at industry events, conferences, and strategic meetings.

Financial & Risk Management

  • Work with the CFO to develop annual budgets, financial projections, and investment strategies.
  • Ensure financial health, cost optimization, and revenue growth across all subsidiaries.
  • Identify risks and implement mitigation frameworks to protect the Group’s interests.

Corporate Governance & Compliance

  • Ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements across sectors.
  • Champion ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability in all organizational operations.
  • Uphold SAO Group’s values and brand reputation.

Required Qualifications & Experience

  • +15 years’ experience in multi-sector consulting, advisory, operations, or executive leadership roles.
  • Demonstrated success leading complex, multi-unit or multi-sector organizations.
  • Strong expertise in operations management, strategic planning, and organizational development.
  • Proven experience managing diverse teams and cross-functional departments.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Strong financial and business acumen.
  • Ability to execute strategy, manage ambiguity, and make informed decisions in dynamic environments.
  • Exposure to international investment markets or cross-border transactions is an advantage.

Education & Certifications

  • Advanced degree such as an MBA or MSc in Finance, Economics, or related field. 
  • Professional certifications such as PMP, ICAN, ACCA, SHRM, CIPM, CMC, or related industry credentials are highly advantageous.

Key Competencies

  • Executive Leadership & Vision
  • Multi-sector Business Acumen
  • Operational Excellence
  • Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving
  • Financial Literacy & Budget Oversight
  • People Leadership & Talent Development
  • Communication & Stakeholder Influence
  • Innovation & Growth Mindset
  • Ethical Decision Making and Integrity
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