Job Description
Position: Sports Facility Development Manager
Company: International Olympic Committee (IOC)
Location: Chikwawa, Malawi
Experience: 8+ years in sports infrastructure development, project management, or related field
Education: Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Sports Management, Urban Planning, or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Sports Infrastructure & Development
Department: Development & Infrastructure
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is a global organization dedicated to promoting Olympism worldwide and leading the Olympic Movement. With a mission to build a better world through sport, the IOC supports the development of sports infrastructure in emerging nations to foster athletic excellence, community health, and social cohesion. Our initiatives in Africa focus on creating sustainable sports ecosystems that empower youth, promote gender equality, and drive economic development through sports tourism and local employment. The IOC’s commitment to Malawi represents a strategic partnership to transform sports infrastructure and create lasting legacy projects that benefit communities for generations.
As part of our Africa Sports Development Initiative, we are expanding our presence in Southern Africa with a focus on creating world-class sports facilities that serve both elite athletes and local communities. Our projects incorporate sustainable design principles, local materials, and community engagement strategies to ensure facilities remain accessible and relevant. The IOC brings decades of expertise in sports facility development from Olympic Games host cities worldwide, adapting best practices to local contexts while maintaining international standards of quality, safety, and inclusivity.
Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced Sports Facility Development Manager to lead the planning, design, and construction of a multi-sport complex in Chikwawa, Malawi. This strategic position offers exceptional career opportunities in Malawi for professionals passionate about sports development and infrastructure. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of the project lifecycle, from initial feasibility studies through to commissioning and handover, ensuring the facility meets international standards while addressing local community needs.
This role represents a unique chance to contribute to Malawi’s sports development landscape while working with a prestigious international organization. The manager will coordinate with government agencies, local contractors, international consultants, and community stakeholders to deliver a facility that becomes a regional hub for sports excellence. For those seeking jobs in Malawi with global impact, this position offers the opportunity to create lasting infrastructure that will nurture athletic talent and promote healthy lifestyles across generations.
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Key Responsibilities
- Lead the complete project management lifecycle for the Chikwawa multi-sport complex development
- Develop and manage project budgets exceeding $15 million, ensuring optimal resource allocation
- Coordinate with architectural and engineering firms to design facilities meeting international sports standards
- Manage procurement processes for construction materials, equipment, and specialized sports surfaces
- Supervise construction teams and contractors to ensure quality, safety, and timeline adherence
- Implement sustainable building practices and environmental management systems throughout construction
- Develop community engagement strategies to ensure local ownership and facility utilization
- Create operational plans and training programs for facility management post-construction
- Establish partnerships with sports federations, educational institutions, and community organizations
- Monitor and report on project progress to IOC headquarters and local stakeholders
- Develop legacy programs to ensure long-term sustainability and community benefit
Required Skills
- Expertise in sports facility design principles and international standards
- Advanced project management capabilities with large-scale infrastructure projects
- Strong financial management and budget control skills
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and community relations abilities
- Knowledge of sustainable construction practices and green building certifications
- Contract management and procurement expertise
- Risk assessment and mitigation planning capabilities
- Cross-cultural communication and team leadership skills
- Technical understanding of sports surface technologies and equipment specifications
- Proficiency in project management software and design visualization tools
Education
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Sports Management, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field. Additional certifications in Project Management (PMP or equivalent), Sustainable Design, or Sports Facility Management are highly desirable. International exposure through education or training in sports infrastructure development will be considered a significant advantage.
Experience
A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in sports infrastructure development, large-scale construction project management, or related fields is required. Candidates must demonstrate successful completion of at least two major sports facility projects (stadiums, arenas, multi-sport complexes) with budgets exceeding $5 million. Experience working in developing countries, particularly in Africa, and familiarity with donor-funded projects will be prioritized. Proven ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and complex stakeholder relationships is essential.
Benefits
- Competitive international salary package with performance bonuses
- Comprehensive health insurance including international coverage
- Housing allowance and relocation assistance
- Professional development opportunities with global sports organizations
- Generous leave policy including home leave travel
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions
- Education allowance for dependent children
- Opportunity to work on legacy-creating projects with global impact
- Access to IOC’s global network and professional resources
- Career progression opportunities within international sports development
Training
- Comprehensive onboarding program at IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland
- Specialized training in sports facility management systems
- Professional development in sustainable construction practices
- Community engagement and stakeholder management workshops
- Project management software and tools certification
- Regular skills enhancement programs through IOC’s learning platform
- Leadership development programs for senior project managers
- Cross-cultural communication and negotiation training
Working Environment
This position is based in Chikwawa, Malawi, with regular travel to project sites and occasional regional meetings. The role combines office-based planning with extensive field supervision at construction sites. The IOC provides a supportive, professional environment with access to global expertise and resources. Team members work in a collaborative, multicultural setting that values innovation, sustainability, and community impact. The organization promotes work-life balance while recognizing the intensive nature of infrastructure project timelines.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their comprehensive CV, cover letter detailing relevant experience, and professional references through the IOC careers portal. The selection process includes initial screening, technical assessment, panel interview, and final interview with senior management. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The IOC is committed to a transparent, merit-based recruitment process that identifies the best talent for this crucial development role.
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Equal Opportunity Statement
The International Olympic Committee is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by international law. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs. The IOC particularly encourages applications from Malawian nationals and women professionals in the infrastructure development sector.
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