Country Lead, Westerwelle Foundation Ghana

Confidential Expression of Interest: Country Lead – Westerwelle Foundation Ghana

Country Lead, Westerwelle Foundation Ghana

Location: Accra, Ghana

Timeline: Immediate to Q1 2026 start preferred, depending on availability

This is a confidential Expression of Interest for a senior leadership role to launch and lead a new innovation hub in Accra. We are engaging a few ecosystem leaders through private outreach before any broader public announcement. Submitting this link helps us assess fit and align on key expectations before scheduling an in person conversation.

About Westerwelle Startup Haus Accra

Westerwelle Startup Haus Accra is set to become the newest hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in Ghana, joining the Westerwelle Foundation global network. Headquartered in Berlin, the foundation currently operates hubs in Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya and Tunisia, and programs across Africa and beyond, supporting founders through business ideation, proof of concept, market access, and acceleration. The hub will provide a collaborative space for startups and stakeholders to meet, develop their skills, and connect with an international network of startups and support resources.

Overview:

We are looking for an outstanding Country Lead to launch and lead Westerwelle Startup Haus Accra. This role takes full ownership and accountability for the hub, from launch readiness to day-to-day operations, team leadership, partnerships, fundraising support, sales for workspace occupancy, financial tracking, reporting, and external representation. The Country Lead implements the vision and values of the foundation locally and works closely with the Managing Director based in Berlin and the Regional Expansion Lead for Africa. The Country Lead is a member of the Westerwelle Foundation Management Team and reports directly to the Managing Director based in Berlin.

Responsibilities:

• Set up and launch: With support from the Managing Director and Regional Expansion Lead, support the operational setup for Accra including local coordination for legal and administrative readiness, hiring support, process rollout, and operational planning. Coordinate the official launch and ensure the hub is ready for operation.
• Team leadership: Manage and supervise the team, oversee daily operations, set clear priorities and KPIs, run regular check ins, one on ones and performance reviews, and support recruitment in collaboration with global functional Directors.
• Operational management: Ensure compliance with legal and financial obligations, maintain strong operational standards, oversee workspace operations andmember experience, and drive operational efficiency across the hub.
• Financial management: Own annual planning and budget oversight for Ghana, ensure accurate financial tracking and reporting, coordinate approvals and controls with the finance function, and ensure timely compliance with local obligations.
• Sales and programs: Drive sales efforts for the workspace, build a strong pipeline, and support the design and delivery of entrepreneurship programs in alignment with strategy. Contribute to partnerships and fundraising efforts by engaging corporates, development partners, and ecosystem stakeholders.
• Stakeholder management: Act as the main representative, build sustainable relationships with partners, community members, investors, and ecosystem players. Maintain strong communication with Berlin and internal leadership. Represent the organization at relevant ecosystem events and convenings.
• Reporting: Handle regular reporting, including financial and operational updates, participate in leadership meetings, and ensure accurate documentation and reporting of activities, partnerships, and performance metrics.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree with 7 years' experience or Masters degree with 5 years' experience in Business administration, Economics, Marketing, International development, Entrepreneurship or a related field. Certifications in project management, business, or entrepreneurship are preferred.
• Strong familiarity with Ghanas startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem, with proven ability to build partnerships and credibility. Familiarity with the broader African market is highly desirable. Minimum two years in a leadership position with responsibility for team and outcomes.
• Demonstrable experience driving operational execution, managing budgets, tracking performance, and delivering results. Experience with sales, revenue targets, or workspace or membership models is an advantage.
• Experience engaging corporates, development partners, or strategic partners and supporting partnership development or fundraising efforts.
• Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, communicate clearly, and operate effectively in a global team structure.
• Fluency in English required. Additional languages are an advantage.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong leadership and people management skills, capable of driving team performance and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proficient in strategic planning and project management tools.
• Comfortable driving sales and growth targets.
• Ability to develop and implement comprehensive program plans and events that align with strategic objectives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the capacity to design and implement KPIs and monitor program success.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-growth environment, and think, plan, and execute resourcefully.
• Experienced and clear communicator, comfortable being in front of a group.

Personal Attributes

• High level of integrity and accountability, with a strong commitment to organizational values.

• Resilient and agile, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing environments.

• Passionate about entrepreneurship and innovation, with a genuine interest in supporting startups and contributing to their growth.
• Ability to work effectively with colleagues and stakeholders from diverse cultural backgrounds.

How to express interest: Please submit your details through the confidential Expression of Interest link, and include your Resume and LinkedIn profile. Selected candidates will be invited for a brief initial conversation.