Operations Assistant

To Apply: please send the following to job@akojopo.org

1. All emails subject titles should be formatted as “Operations Assistant - First Name, Last Name”
2. Cover Letter
3. CV or Resume
4. Google Drive link titled “[Your Name] Portfolio”, including past work samples (writing samples, project contributions, or any relevant work demonstrating your skills and experience)

Applications that fail to follow the instructions listed in the To Apply section outlined above will not be reviewed.

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Role Title: Operations Assistant 

Compensation Range: $20 an hour 

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - In-person for Chicago events)

Application Deadline: April 30th, 2025 at 11:59 pm CST (applications received after deadline will not be reviewed)

Contracted Term: May 2025 - March 31st, 2026 (1 Fiscal Year, renewable based on funding and performance)

Time Commitment: 20 Hours a week 

About Àkójọpọ̀: Àkójọpọ̀ is an international arts organization dedicated to promoting and integrating Pan-African music globally, celebrating its cultural richness and significance across diverse communities and diasporas. Through our concerts, e-commerce marketplace, and arts administration initiatives, we empower Pan-African art music communities and raise global awareness to celebrate the diverse heritage of African and Afro-diasporic music worldwide. You can learn more about our story here. 

Role Description/Responsibilities: We seek a highly disciplined, interdisciplinary, and passionate Operations Assistant to support the day-to-day functions of our growing organization. This role is designed for a proactive and self-motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is dedicated to our mission, and is ready to contribute meaningfully to our expansion. The Operations Assistant will work alongside our team to share the workload of Àkójọpọ̀ and will be actively involved in the daily operations of the organization. Their responsibilities will span multiple areas, including Publishing (Sheet Music, Lessons & Workshops, Blog, Community Directories), Arts Administration (Music Business & Arts Administration Education), and Concerts (Pan-African Art Music Performances). While they will be involved in various organizational activities, their main focus will be on operational logistics, administrative support, and program coordination. 

This role requires an interdisciplinary mindset, as our work spans music, education, publishing, business, and community engagement. We are well-versed in multiple fields, and we encourage candidates who can adapt and apply skills across different disciplines.

Key Responsibilities: This role supports the day-to-day operations and overall coordination of Àkójọpọ̀’s programs and initiatives. It involves assisting with planning and executing events like concerts, workshops, and community engagements, while handling logistical needs such as scheduling, booking venues, and communicating with vendors. The role also includes administrative duties like managing records, preparing reports, and handling organizational correspondence. Financial responsibilities include helping with grant applications, donor communications, budget monitoring, and keeping financial records accurate and updated. The person in this role will also contribute to internal and external communications, support marketing efforts—including social media and outreach—and play a hands-on role in in-person events in Chicago, as well as our broader publishing and arts administration projects. Overall, this position is integral to ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of Àkójọpọ̀’s programs and growth.

Qualifications:

1. A go-getter with the ability to work independently, take initiative, and problem-solve effectively.
2. Strong organizational and multitasking skills with keen attention to detail.
3. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
4. Previous experience in arts administration, event coordination, or nonprofit operations is a plus.
5. Passion for Pan-African music, culture, and community engagement.
6. Strong work ethic, discipline, and reliability.
7. Proficiency with Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Drive) and other administrative tools.
8. Sales experience and/or music publishing experience would be highly beneficial.
9. An interdisciplinary mindset is encouraged, as our team members apply expertise across various fields such as music, business, education, and cultural production.
10. Own personal laptop.