PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
AFAR is in search of a seasoned, enterprising, and outcome-driven Country Manager to spearhead and expand its initiatives in Kenya. This role requires strategic leadership to propel business development and resource acquisition, while overseeing program execution, fostering partnerships, and upholding operational excellence throughout AFAR Kenya’s portfolio.
A highly motivated leader is sought for this role, with a strong history of success in fundraising, program oversight, stakeholder relations, and agribusiness expansion. The ideal candidate will drive AFAR’s expansion in Kenya by cultivating new alliances, broadening project scope, and establishing AFAR as a credible and influential partner in the agriculture and agribusiness sector.
The incumbent will be tasked with executing a range of duties and responsibilities aligned with the role’s objectives. Key functions include overseeing daily operations, managing project timelines, and ensuring adherence to company policies and industry regulations. Additionally, the position demands collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive efficiency, resolve operational challenges, and maintain high performance standards. The role also involves analyzing data to identify trends, preparing comprehensive reports, and presenting actionable insights to senior leadership. Proficiency in relevant software tools, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for success in this position.
Strategic leadership and country representation are essential to this role, which involves guiding teams toward achieving key objectives while serving as the primary liaison between the organization and external stakeholders. The position demands a dynamic approach to decision-making, leveraging deep market insights to inform strategy and foster sustainable growth. Additionally, the role requires adept navigation of complex regulatory and cultural landscapes to ensure alignment with corporate values and local expectations. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to inspire cross-functional collaboration are paramount for success.
Offer strategic leadership and guidance to drive the overall direction and growth of AFAR Kenya.
Formulate and execute country-specific strategies that are fully aligned with AFAR’s overarching continental objectives.
Analyze developing prospects, potential threats, and shifts in the market landscape to guide strategic planning and expansion initiatives within the country.
AFAR engages in representation at national, regional, and international forums, conferences, and stakeholder engagements.
Enhance AFAR’s prominence, impact, and standing within Kenya’s agricultural industry.
We are seeking a dynamic professional to spearhead business development and resource mobilization initiatives. The ideal candidate will identify and pursue new business opportunities, forge strategic partnerships, and secure funding to drive organizational growth. Key responsibilities include developing business strategies, cultivating client relationships, and ensuring efficient allocation of resources. Candidates must possess a proven track record in sales, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement, along with exceptional analytical and communication skills. A bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field is required, and prior experience in a similar role is preferred.
This position is tasked with spearheading growth initiatives and fostering new business prospects for AFAR Kenya. The Country Manager will:
Spearhead efforts to secure resources by cultivating and maintaining a robust, long-term funding pipeline.
Develop and nurture collaborations with bilateral and multilateral donors, foundations, government entities, and private sector stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and advance shared objectives.
Explore and develop innovative project prospects within the realms of agriculture, agribusiness, food systems, climate resilience, and rural development.
Develop and oversee the creation of comprehensive proposals, encompassing concept notes, technical proposals, budgets, and strategic partnership negotiations.
Forge strategic alliances that generate sustainable business and programmatic opportunities.
Position AFAR to emerge as the preferred implementing and technical partner across Kenya and the broader East African region.
The position involves overseeing the strategic direction, execution, and overall success of the program, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations while driving measurable outcomes and sustainable impact. Key responsibilities include leading cross-functional teams, managing budgets, and mitigating risks to maintain operational efficiency. The role requires strong leadership, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record in program management, with a keen ability to adapt to evolving priorities and drive continuous improvement. Candidates must possess relevant qualifications—such as a degree in a related field or equivalent professional certifications—and demonstrate extensive experience in program delivery, preferably within similar industries or sectors. Proficiency in project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, PRINCE2) and advanced proficiency in analytical tools are essential to optimize performance and inform data-driven decision-making.
Oversee the comprehensive management of financial, administrative, and operational functions within the country office.
Develop and oversee annual budgets, financial forecasts, and performance targets to ensure fiscal alignment and strategic objectives are met.
Ensure adherence to AFAR financial policies, donor regulations, and statutory requirements to maintain compliance.
Enhance internal control frameworks and facilitate audit procedures to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
Optimize the allocation and deployment of organizational assets to maximize productivity and operational efficiency.
We focus on cultivating strategic partnerships and fostering meaningful relationships with key stakeholders to drive mutual growth and enhance collaborative opportunities. This role involves identifying, negotiating, and maintaining alliances that align with organizational objectives while ensuring robust engagement with critical partners. Your responsibilities will include assessing market trends, evaluating potential partners, and negotiating mutually beneficial agreements to strengthen our network and expand our influence. Additionally, you will serve as a liaison between our organization and external entities, ensuring alignment with business goals and delivering value to all stakeholders involved.
Foster strategic partnerships with government ministries, county administrations, development collaborators, agricultural associations, agribusiness firms, banking institutions, and private sector entities.
Develop and nurture key alliances to support and enhance AFAR’s strategic objectives while broadening the scope and effectiveness of its programs.
Facilitate policy dialogue and advocacy efforts to bolster agricultural markets and agribusiness development.
Experienced professionals in team leadership and organizational development are sought to drive strategic initiatives and foster high-performing teams. The role demands the ability to design and implement frameworks that enhance productivity, collaboration, and employee engagement while aligning with broader business objectives. Candidates must possess a proven track record of developing talent, optimizing workflows, and facilitating change management within dynamic environments. Strong interpersonal skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability are essential to navigate evolving organizational needs and mentor teams toward sustained success.
Guide, support, and cultivate a top-performing national team through leadership, mentorship, and professional development initiatives.
Promote an environment characterized by accountability, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to ongoing growth.
Develop and implement strategic staffing initiatives, succession plans, and capacity-building programs to ensure optimal organizational readiness and talent pipeline strength.
Champion the company’s core values and foster a constructive, collaborative workplace culture.
We seek a qualified candidate who meets the following essential criteria: a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, at least three years of hands-on experience in a similar role, proficiency with industry-standard software and tools, and strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, the ideal applicant should demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and a commitment to upholding high standards of accuracy and quality.
We seek a highly motivated and knowledgeable professional to contribute to our mission of fostering excellence in education. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in education, a closely related field, or possess equivalent work experience. A strong understanding of curriculum development, instructional strategies, and classroom management is essential. Additionally, familiarity with educational technology and data-driven decision-making is required. Responsibilities include designing engaging lesson plans, collaborating with colleagues to enhance student outcomes, and evaluating educational programs for continuous improvement. Strong communication skills and a commitment to equity and inclusion in education are expected.
A Master’s Degree in fields such as Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, Business Administration, International Development, Rural Development, or a closely related discipline is required.
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, supplemented by substantial professional experience, may be deemed acceptable.
We seek a candidate with a minimum of [X] years of hands-on experience in a relevant field, demonstrating a proven track record of success in [specific tasks or responsibilities]. Familiarity with [specific tools, software, or methodologies] is essential, along with the ability to adapt to evolving industry standards and technologies. The ideal applicant will possess strong analytical skills, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative mindset to work effectively within cross-functional teams. Experience leading projects or mentoring junior staff is a plus, as is a commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with emerging trends.
A proven track record of at least ten years of progressively responsible roles in program management, agribusiness development, agricultural market systems, or international development is required.
Minimum of five years of experience in a senior leadership or management capacity is required.
Proven track record in securing funding, expanding business opportunities, and effectively mobilizing resources.
Demonstrated expertise in overseeing programs funded by donors and navigating intricate stakeholder networks.
Proven expertise in Kenya’s agricultural sector, agribusiness dynamics, and development frameworks is essential.
Proficiency in collaborating with governmental bodies, donor organizations, financial institutions, and private sector entities is required.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in a range of key competencies, including strong analytical and problem-solving skills, exceptional communication abilities, and the capacity to work effectively within cross-functional teams. They must possess a solid understanding of industry best practices and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance and operational excellence. Additionally, the role demands meticulous attention to detail, the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Experience in [specific field or industry] and familiarity with [relevant tools, software, or methodologies] are essential, along with a track record of delivering measurable results in similar positions.
Providing strategic direction and fostering a forward-thinking vision are essential aspects of this role.
Proven expertise in business development and negotiation is essential.
Skilled in cultivating strong relationships and fostering collaborative partnerships with stakeholders at all levels. Demonstrated expertise in engaging diverse stakeholders and aligning interests to achieve mutual objectives.
Proven leadership in financial oversight and operational efficiency, encompassing strategic planning, budgetary control, and performance optimization to drive organizational success.
Exceptional proficiency in verbal communication, delivering impactful presentations, and crafting well-structured reports is essential.
Proven capability to guide cross-functional teams and achieve measurable outcomes in fast-paced, evolving settings.
Maintains the highest standards of professionalism, ethical conduct, and accountability in all responsibilities and interactions.
If your qualifications align with the outlined requirements, we welcome your application submission. Kindly forward the following materials to kmanaka@afap-partnership.org, ensuring the subject line reads: “Kenya Country Manager.” Please note that the application deadline is 17 June 2026.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
