To facilitate the efficient execution of duties associated with this position, the primary objective is to ensure seamless operational continuity while maintaining high standards of performance. This involves overseeing key responsibilities, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and adhering to established protocols to achieve organizational goals. The role demands a proactive approach, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to evolving business needs. Additionally, the incumbent must meet all specified requirements and fulfill the outlined responsibilities to contribute effectively to the team’s success and overall company objectives.
AFAR is in search of a seasoned, enterprising, and outcome-driven Country Manager to spearhead and expand its operations in Kenya. This role demands strategic leadership, proactive business development and resource mobilization, meticulous oversight of program implementation, robust partnership cultivation, and unwavering commitment to operational excellence throughout AFAR Kenya’s portfolio.
The ideal candidate will be a results-driven leader with extensive experience in fundraising, program management, stakeholder engagement, and agribusiness development. You will be responsible for expanding AFAR’s presence in Kenya by cultivating new partnerships, broadening project initiatives, and establishing AFAR as a reliable and influential ally in the agriculture and agribusiness sector.
Responsibilities include overseeing key operational functions, ensuring adherence to established policies and procedures, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. The role demands meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical capabilities, and the ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently. Additionally, the position requires effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive project success and achieve organizational objectives. Proficiency in industry-specific software and tools, along with a commitment to continuous improvement, is essential.
We are seeking a seasoned executive to provide visionary leadership and serve as the primary representative of our organization within the designated country. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives that drive growth, foster strong stakeholder relationships, and uphold our corporate values in all engagements. This role demands exceptional diplomatic acumen, the ability to influence key decision-makers, and a proven track record of successfully leading cross-functional teams in dynamic international markets.
Lead the strategic vision and comprehensive direction for AFAR Kenya, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
Devising and executing country strategies that align with AFAR’s overarching continental objectives is essential to this role.
Analyze emerging opportunities, risks, and market trends to guide country-specific programming and drive sustainable growth.
AFAR delegates its representation at national, regional, and international forums, conferences, and stakeholder engagements.
Increase AFAR’s prominence, impact, and standing within Kenya’s agricultural industry to foster greater recognition and leadership.
As a Business Development and Resource Mobilization professional, you will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, fostering strategic partnerships, and securing essential resources to drive organizational growth. Your role involves conducting market research, analyzing industry trends, and evaluating competitive landscapes to inform decision-making. Additionally, you will cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, negotiate agreements, and develop proposals to support funding initiatives. Strong communication, analytical, and negotiation skills are essential, along with a proven track record in business development, fundraising, or resource mobilization.
This position entails spearheading expansion initiatives and cultivating new business prospects for AFAR Kenya. The Country Manager will be tasked with:
Spearhead the mobilization of resources and cultivate a robust, sustainable pipeline of funding prospects.
Cultivate and sustain strategic partnerships with bilateral and multilateral donors, foundations, government agencies, and private sector collaborators to foster collaborative engagement and resource mobilization.
Explore and capitalize on emerging project prospects within the realms of agriculture, agribusiness, food systems, climate resilience, and rural development to drive strategic growth and innovation.
Oversee the development of proposals, encompassing concept notes, technical proposals, budgets, and partnership negotiations.
Cultivate high-impact alliances designed to foster enduring commercial ventures and innovative program initiatives.
Position AFAR to emerge as the preferred implementing and technical partner across Kenya and the broader East African region.
This role is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, execution, and continuous improvement of key programs, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and stakeholder expectations. The incumbent will lead cross-functional teams, manage resources efficiently, and monitor progress to achieve defined milestones and deliverables. Additionally, the position involves fostering collaboration among departments, mitigating risks, and implementing best practices to enhance program outcomes. Strong leadership, analytical skills, and the ability to drive results in dynamic environments are essential for success in this position.
Oversee the financial management, administrative functions, and operational activities of the country office comprehensively.
We are responsible for establishing and overseeing annual budgets, financial forecasts, and performance objectives to ensure organizational efficiency and strategic alignment.
Ensure adherence to AFAR financial policies, donor mandates, and applicable statutory regulations.
Enhance internal control frameworks and facilitate comprehensive audit procedures.
Devote careful attention to the optimal allocation and utilization of organizational resources to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
We focus on cultivating strategic partnerships and fostering robust relationships with key stakeholders to drive mutual growth and long-term value creation. This role requires identifying and nurturing high-potential opportunities, aligning interests with partners, and ensuring seamless collaboration to achieve shared objectives. You will be responsible for negotiating agreements, managing ongoing engagements, and measuring the impact of partnerships to maximize efficiency and effectiveness. Strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence across diverse stakeholders are essential for success in this position.
Develop and maintain robust partnerships with government ministries, county authorities, development collaborators, agricultural organizations, agribusiness entities, financial institutions, and private sector stakeholders.
Foster collaborative alliances to advance AFAR’s strategic objectives and broaden programmatic influence.
Facilitate constructive policy discussions and advocacy efforts aimed at enhancing agricultural markets and fostering the growth of agribusiness.
Experienced professionals with a strong background in guiding teams and fostering organizational growth are encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate will demonstrate expertise in driving team performance, implementing developmental strategies, and optimizing workflows to enhance overall productivity and efficiency. Responsibilities include mentoring team members, aligning individual goals with broader organizational objectives, and cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Proficiency in change management, talent development, and process optimization is essential, along with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to inspire and motivate teams.
Direct, mentor, and cultivate a high-caliber country team to achieve sustained success.
Promote an environment characterized by accountability, collaboration, innovation, and ongoing professional development.
Oversee the alignment of staffing levels, implement robust succession planning strategies, and foster capacity-building initiatives to sustain organizational growth and resilience.
Champion the organization’s core values and foster a collaborative, uplifting workplace culture where every team member thrives.
Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a closely related field. Additionally, candidates must possess at least three years of hands-on experience in software development, with a strong proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++. Familiarity with agile methodologies, version control systems (e.g., Git), and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure) is also required. Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in fast-paced environments are essential. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary to convey technical concepts effectively to diverse stakeholders.
Education
A master’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, Business Administration, International Development, Rural Development, or a closely related discipline is required.
A Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and substantial relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the degree requirement.
Seasoned professionals with prior hands-on experience in the specified field are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a proven track record of success in roles directly aligned with the position’s demands. The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience, with a preference for candidates who have excelled in similar environments. Applicants must possess the requisite technical skills and industry knowledge to perform the essential duties effectively.
With a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in program management, agribusiness development, agricultural market systems, or international development.
A minimum of five years of experience in a senior leadership or management position is required.
Proven track record in securing funding, driving business growth, and mobilizing essential resources.
Demonstrated expertise in overseeing programs funded by donors and navigating intricate stakeholder engagements.
Proficiency in Kenya’s agricultural sector, agribusiness dynamics, and development context is essential.
Individuals with proven expertise collaborating with governmental bodies, funding agencies, financial organizations, and private sector collaborators will find this role particularly suitable.
We are seeking a highly skilled professional with expertise in identifying and implementing key competencies essential for organizational success. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in talent assessment, development planning, and competency framework alignment. A strong background in human resources, organizational development, or a related field is required, along with proven experience in designing and executing competency models. Key responsibilities include analyzing job roles, defining measurable behavioral indicators, and collaborating with leadership to integrate competencies into performance management systems. Additionally, the candidate should possess exceptional communication skills to effectively articulate competency requirements and drive adoption across the organization.
Provides strategic direction and fosters a unified vision to drive organizational success.
Proven expertise in business development coupled with exceptional negotiation capabilities.
Proven expertise in cultivating strong stakeholder relationships and fostering collaborative partnerships.
With a strong background in financial oversight and operational efficiency, candidates will demonstrate proficiency in managing both fiscal resources and daily organizational functions.
Exceptional proficiency in verbal communication, the ability to deliver impactful presentations, and the skill to produce comprehensive reports are essential.
Proven capability to guide cross-functional teams and achieve measurable outcomes in fast-paced, evolving settings.
Maintaining a high standard of professionalism, integrity, and accountability is essential.
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications. Kindly forward your materials to kmanaka@afap-partnership.org, ensuring the subject line reads “Kenya Country Manager.” The application deadline is 17 June 2026.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
