THE OPPORTUNITY
The Lead, Entrepreneurship will assist in executing entrepreneurship-focused initiatives in Kenya, collaborating closely with the Head, Entrepreneurship. This position will leverage advanced technical knowledge in entrepreneurship to guide, oversee, and refine the Foundation’s programmatic efforts, ensuring they align with both the Foundation’s strategic objectives and Kenya’s distinct context. Additionally, the role will foster partnerships that create meaningful employment opportunities for young people and advance innovations to bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
You can make meaningful contributions in several key areas, including collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive project initiatives, analyzing complex data to identify trends and insights, and implementing solutions that enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining strategic partnerships to expand market reach, mentoring junior staff to foster professional growth, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in data management tools, and excellent communication abilities are essential for success in this role.
Provide technical expertise to contribute to the formulation of the country strategy, focusing on entrepreneurship and employment systems.
Oversee designated initiatives centered on entrepreneurship and financial accessibility, with a particular emphasis on rural and agricultural financing programs.
Facilitate the customization and execution of program strategies within the country-specific context, guaranteeing alignment with local needs and leveraging available opportunities.
Partner with implementation partners to guarantee the successful execution of program activities, offering technical expertise as needed.
Develop and nurture partnerships with key organizations and stakeholders to ensure the effective execution and success of program initiatives.
Facilitate the development and implementation of strategic initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and accelerating growth in entrepreneurship.
Play a key role in enhancing learning and evidence-building initiatives by systematically recording lessons learned, compiling success stories, and engaging in internal evaluations.
Offer valuable insights and key learnings to both internal teams and external stakeholders, fostering informed thought leadership on youth employment across Africa.
Engage in thorough due diligence and evaluation procedures to assess potential new programs and partnership opportunities.
Track program performance and provide detailed analyses of critical metrics and progress toward established outcomes.
Ensure that all programs consistently reflect and uphold the Foundation’s core values, guiding principles, and strategic goals at the country level.
Facilitate the organization and alignment of internal working groups and foster cross-functional collaboration centered on entrepreneurship initiatives.
Actively cultivate and expand your knowledge base in entrepreneurship and its surrounding ecosystem through ongoing professional development initiatives.
WHO YOU ARE
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Business, or a related field—or equivalent practical experience—is required.
A minimum of ten years’ professional engagement with microfinance institutions, banks, or investment firms operating across Africa to support small and medium-sized enterprises, with an emphasis on Kenya, and at least five years in a managerial role, is required.
Proven expertise in navigating Kenya’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with comprehensive insight into its rural, agricultural, and informal sectors.
Proven track record collaborating with or overseeing implementation partners to ensure successful project delivery and alignment with organizational objectives.
Possesses a proven understanding of systems change methodologies alongside a flexible, adaptive learning perspective.
Demonstrates exceptional analytical capabilities, strategic thinking, and the capacity to serve as a collaborative thought partner in the development of the Foundation’s strategic initiatives.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in budgeting and the capacity to oversee a substantial portfolio of assets.
Proven expertise in both quantitative and qualitative business analytics, encompassing advanced data analysis and interpretive methodologies.
Proven ability to communicate effectively through verbal, written, and presentation formats, adept at conveying information clearly to diverse audiences, including those from different cultural backgrounds.
Demonstrated expertise in project management, with a strong ability to oversee and coordinate initiatives involving multiple stakeholders effectively.
A strong understanding of digital inclusion policy is highly advantageous.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
