Head of Administration

The Goethe-Institut is the cultural institute of the Federal Republic of Germany, active worldwide. We promote international cultural cooperation, convey a comprehensive picture of Germany and support access to the German language.

We are seeking a dedicated, responsible individual with strong leadership skills for the position of Head of Administration at the Goethe-Institut Ghana, starting on 1 February 2027. The position will initially be offered on a one-year fixed-term contract. An extension is possible. Remuneration will be based on the Goethe-Institut’s local salary scheme.

Your tasks:
As Head of Administration, you will be responsible for the institute’s administrative, financial, human resources and infrastructure processes and advise the Institute Director on all administrative matters.

Finance and controlling

• Financial controlling: monitor the institute’s budget and progress against targets; coordinate forecasts and planning at the institute; manage year-end budget adjustments in close consultation with the Institute Director.
• Ensure proper accounting, cash handling and payment processes, including responsibility for cash audits.
• Process and verify invoices relating to the administration department.
• Oversee liquidity management and financial controlling, including the preparation of financial plans, forecasts and analyses.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and relevant legal requirements.
• Advise the Institute Director on economic and financial matters.

Human resources management

• Take professional and organisational responsibility for HR administration.
• Ensure compliance with labour, tax and social security regulations.
• Oversee payroll, personnel records and contract management.
• Contribute to workforce planning, staff development and recruitment processes.
• Advise managers and staff on HR-related matters.
• Manage personnel budget planning and staff cost controlling.

Legal matters, compliance and procurement

• Advise the Institute Director on legal, tax and regulatory matters; advance and clarify issues concerning the institute’s legal and tax status in close consultation with the Institute Director, including communication with law firms, tax advisers and local authorities.
• Liaise with authorities, banks, tax advisers, auditors and other external partners on administrative matters.
• Ensure compliance with internal compliance and governance requirements, including designing and delivering training for the institute.
• Assist in responding to enquiries arising from external and internal inspections and audits.
• Serve as the institute’s Data Protection Officer, including responsibility for the record of processing activities and data deletion policies.
• Oversee contract management and procurement processes in accordance with Goethe-Institut guidelines.

Your profile

• A university degree in business administration, public administration, finance, law or a comparable field.
• Several years of relevant professional experience in finance, administration, human resources or controlling.
• Experience in a leadership role is an advantage.
• Very good knowledge of financial management, HR and contract administration.
• Strong analytical and strategic skills.
• A high level of integrity, discretion and responsibility.
• An independent, structured and solution-oriented approach to work.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills in an international environment.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure and strong intercultural competence.
• Very good knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; knowledge of SAP is an advantage.
• Very good German language skills (at least level B2).
• Very good written and spoken English.
• A valid work permit for Ghana or eligibility to obtain one.

What we offer

• A responsible leadership role with considerable scope to shape your area of work.
• An international and diverse working environment.
• Close collaboration with the Institute Director and Goethe-Institut colleagues across the region and internationally.
• Opportunities for professional and personal development.
• Market-aligned remuneration based on the Goethe-Institut’s local salary scale.

How to apply
Please submit the following documents:

• CV in tabular format.
• Letter of motivation.
• University certificates and relevant employment references.
• Proof of German language proficiency.
• If applicable, proof of a valid work permit for Rwanda.
• Any other relevant supporting documents.

by email to Maximilian.Roettger@goethe.de with the subject line:

Leitung Verwaltung 2026

The application deadline is 20 November 2026.

Please note that only complete applications will be considered. Only applicants who meet the requirements of the position will be invited to the next stage of the selection process.
We look forward to receiving your application.