Exciting position for smart leader
A high-powered role is on offer to someone from the Hong Kong business world who is smart, articulate and committed to the local community.
A non-profit organisation that provides advice, training and research to 44 mainly large companies in the area of corporate social responsibility (CSR) would like to recruit a managing director.
The mission of Community Business is to lead, inspire and support these companies to make a positive impact on people and communities.
'We are membership driven and work individually and collectively with corporate members,' said Shalini Mahtani, the firm's founder and chief executive.
This role was ideally suited to an individual with many years of experience who could help the organisation grow, Ms Mahtani said.
Such growth includes managing, motivating and growing the organisation's team. Duties also include finding funding for projects and helping to manage their profit and loss.
Externally, the new recruit will work with member companies and develop relationships with the government and non-profit sector. 'This is an extremely exciting role as you are working with companies on interesting, creative and innovative fields and managing teams to constantly deliver results,' Ms Mahtani said.
The ideal candidates are natural leaders and must be able to demonstrate excellence in their fields. Applicants should have a strong commitment to the community through, for example, involvement in a church, youth or women's group. 'You must have a passion for your community,' Ms Mahtani said.
At least eight years' experience of work in the private sector is another key factor. The new recruit must be able to communicate with private sector clients, including the CEOs of some of Hong Kong's biggest companies, and be able to work around their deadlines.
Candidates should also be strategic and creative thinkers. 'I want a candidate who will be with me for at least the next five years. The ideal candidate probably comes straight from the private sector and has worked really hard and well but wants to leverage their business skills to make a commitment to the community,' Ms Mahtani said.
The incumbent will be required to travel about four times a year. Overseas travel focuses on building partnerships with similar organisations and incorporates speaking opportunities and liaison with member companies on an increasing number of regional projects.
Ongoing training opportunities are also available to the successful candidate. 'We are a small organisation and training is very much about developing key skills or interests,' Ms Mahtani said.
'You might also attend CSR workshops, go abroad to develop know-how, learn how things work in the region or build up your soft skills,' she said.
