THE OPPORTUNITY
The Lead, Entrepreneurship will facilitate the execution of 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 remain aligned with both the Foundation’s strategic objectives and Kenya’s distinctive landscape. Additionally, the role will foster collaborations that create meaningful employment opportunities for young people and drive innovations to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
You can make meaningful contributions to our team by leveraging your expertise in [relevant field or skill] to drive innovation and efficiency in [specific area or project]. Your responsibilities will include analyzing data to uncover trends, collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement solutions, and ensuring projects align with organizational goals. Additionally, you will play a key role in identifying opportunities for process improvements, optimizing workflows, and maintaining high standards of quality and performance. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work effectively in a fast-paced environment are essential for success in this role.
Provide technical expertise to contribute to the formulation of the country strategy by offering detailed insights into entrepreneurship and employment systems.
Oversee designated initiatives centered on entrepreneurship and financial inclusion, with an emphasis on rural and agricultural finance programs.
Facilitate the customization and execution of program strategies to align with the specific context of each country, prioritizing responsiveness to both local requirements and potential opportunities.
Partner with implementation partners to guarantee the successful execution of program activities, offering technical expertise as needed.
Foster and enhance strategic partnerships with affiliated entities and stakeholders to ensure the achievement of program objectives.
Collaborate in the development and implementation of strategic initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and expanding entrepreneurship on a broader scale.
Facilitate the accumulation of knowledge and the strengthening of evidence by recording key insights, compiling impactful success narratives, and engaging in thorough internal evaluations.
Deliver valuable insights and key learnings to both internal teams and external stakeholders, enhancing thought leadership on youth employment across Africa.
Engage in comprehensive due diligence and rigorous review processes to evaluate prospective programs and partnership opportunities.
Track program performance and deliver detailed analyses of critical metrics, ensuring alignment with established outcomes and providing regular updates on progress.
Ensure programs are consistently aligned with the Foundation’s core values, guiding principles, and strategic objectives at the country level.
Support the facilitation of internal working groups and promote cross-functional collaboration centered on entrepreneurship.
Continuously expand your knowledge and deepen your understanding of entrepreneurship and its surrounding ecosystem through proactive learning and engagement.
WHO YOU ARE
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance or Business—or equivalent professional experience—is required for consideration.
A minimum of ten years of professional experience in microfinance institutions, banks, or investment firms operating across Africa to support SME financing is required, with particular emphasis on Kenya, as well as at least five years in a managerial capacity.
Proven expertise in navigating Kenya’s diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem, encompassing rural enterprises, agricultural ventures, and informal sector dynamics.
Professional experience in collaborating with or overseeing implementation partners.
Proven expertise in systems change methodologies and a commitment to adaptive learning principles.
Demonstrates exceptional analytical capabilities, strategic thinking, and collaborative engagement as a valued thought partner in the Foundation’s strategic planning initiatives.
Proven expertise in budget management, with a strong capacity to oversee and optimize a substantial portfolio of assets.
Proven expertise in both quantitative and qualitative business analytics is required.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in verbal, written, and presentation communication, adept at conveying complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences spanning different cultural backgrounds.
Proven ability to manage projects effectively, demonstrating strong leadership in coordinating with multiple stakeholders.
A strong understanding of digital inclusion policy would be highly beneficial.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
