This position is designed to focus on delivering exceptional results and driving organizational success. The primary objective is to execute key responsibilities with a high degree of precision and accountability, ensuring alignment with strategic goals. The role demands a commitment to continuous improvement, professional development, and adherence to best practices in the field. Essential requirements include relevant experience, technical proficiency, and strong interpersonal skills to foster collaboration and effective communication. Key responsibilities encompass project management, stakeholder engagement, and performance optimization to meet or exceed established targets.
AFAR is in search of a seasoned, enterprising, and outcome-focused Country Manager to spearhead and expand its initiatives in Kenya. This role entails providing visionary leadership, fostering business growth and fundraising, supervising project execution, cultivating key alliances, and upholding operational efficiency throughout AFAR Kenya’s diverse programs.
This role seeks a results-driven leader with extensive expertise in fundraising, program management, stakeholder engagement, and agribusiness development. The ideal candidate will be tasked with expanding AFAR’s presence in Kenya by forging new strategic partnerships, broadening project scopes, and establishing AFAR as a key, reliable player in the agriculture and agribusiness sector.
We are seeking a detail-oriented professional to oversee daily operations, ensuring adherence to company policies and industry regulations. The role involves managing workflows efficiently, coordinating between departments, and maintaining high standards of productivity and quality. Responsibilities include supervising staff performance, conducting performance evaluations, and fostering a collaborative work environment. Additionally, the position requires meticulous record-keeping, accurate financial tracking, and reporting to senior management on key operational metrics. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and exceptional communication abilities are essential for success in this role.
Demonstrates strategic leadership while serving as the primary representative for the organization within the assigned country, ensuring alignment with broader corporate objectives and fostering stakeholder engagement.
Offer strategic leadership and overall direction to AFAR Kenya.
Formulate and execute strategic plans tailored to individual countries in alignment with AFAR’s overarching continental objectives.
Analyze evolving opportunities, risks, and market trends to guide strategic country programming and drive sustainable growth.
AFAR delegates its representation at national, regional, and international forums, conferences, and stakeholder engagements.
Enhance AFAR’s presence, credibility, and standing in Kenya’s agricultural industry to drive greater engagement and impact.
Business Development and Resource Mobilization
We seek a dynamic Business Development and Resource Mobilization professional to drive growth initiatives and secure vital resources to support organizational objectives. The ideal candidate will leverage strategic partnerships and innovative approaches to identify new opportunities, expand market presence, and ensure sustainable funding streams. Responsibilities include cultivating donor relationships, designing resource acquisition strategies, and aligning development efforts with long-term business goals. Candidates must possess a minimum of five years in business development, fundraising, or related fields, with a proven track record of meeting revenue targets and managing stakeholder engagements. Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and analytical skills are essential. Fluency in English and a relevant bachelor’s degree are required.
As a key aspect of this position, the Country Manager will be tasked with spearheading growth initiatives and cultivating new business prospects for AFAR Kenya. Central to this role is the development and execution of strategic plans aimed at expanding market presence and driving revenue generation. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying, pursuing, and securing high-impact opportunities to enhance AFAR Kenya’s competitive positioning in the market.
Spearhead resource mobilization initiatives while cultivating a robust and sustainable pipeline of funding prospects.
Develop and nurture strategic partnerships with bilateral and multilateral donors, foundations, government entities, and private sector collaborators.
Explore and develop innovative project prospects within the realms of agriculture, agribusiness, food systems, climate resilience, and rural development.
Develop and oversee the entire proposal creation process, encompassing concept notes, technical proposals, budgets, and partnership negotiations.
Forge and cultivate enduring strategic alliances that unlock sustainable business expansion and innovative program possibilities.
Position AFAR prominently among the most favored implementing and technical partners across Kenya and the broader East African region.
The role involves overseeing the strategic direction, execution, and success of programs, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives while managing resources, risks, and stakeholder expectations. Responsibilities include leading cross-functional teams, driving performance, and fostering collaboration to deliver high-impact results. Additionally, the position requires monitoring progress, addressing challenges, and implementing improvements to optimize program outcomes. Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership, project management expertise, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. Prior experience in program delivery and a track record of achieving measurable results are essential requirements for this position.
Exercise comprehensive responsibility for financial management, administrative functions, and operational activities within the country office.
Prepare and oversee the annual budgets, forecasts, and financial performance objectives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic priorities.
Ensure strict adherence to AFAR financial policies, donor regulations, and statutory requirements to maintain compliance and operational integrity.
Enhance the effectiveness of internal controls and facilitate the execution of audit procedures.
Optimize the allocation and utilization of organizational resources to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
We focus on cultivating strategic alliances and fostering meaningful relationships with key stakeholders to drive mutual growth and alignment with organizational objectives.
Foster robust partnerships with government ministries, county administrations, development collaborators, agricultural associations, agribusiness enterprises, financial institutions, and private sector stakeholders.
To cultivate high-impact strategic alliances that drive progress toward AFAR’s mission and amplify the reach of its programs.
Facilitate policy discussions and advocacy campaigns aimed at enhancing agricultural market efficiency and fostering agribusiness growth.
We are seeking a dynamic leader to oversee team performance and drive organizational growth through strategic development initiatives. The ideal candidate will be responsible for fostering a collaborative work environment, mentoring team members, and aligning individual goals with broader company objectives. Additionally, you will identify opportunities for process improvements, implement change management strategies, and measure the impact of development programs to ensure sustainable success. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a results-driven mindset are essential for this role.
Direct, guide, and cultivate a high-performing national team, fostering growth and excellence among its members.
Cultivate an environment characterized by accountability, collaboration, innovation, and ongoing development.
Oversee the alignment of staffing levels, implement robust succession planning initiatives, and cultivate capacity-building programs to enhance organizational capabilities.
Advocate for the organization’s core values while fostering a productive and supportive workplace culture.
Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a closely related field. Two years of professional experience in software development or a comparable technical role is required. Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++ is essential. Familiarity with database management systems and cloud computing platforms is also necessary. Strong problem-solving abilities and excellent communication skills are critical for collaboration with cross-functional teams. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with emerging technologies.
Education
A Master’s Degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, Business Administration, International Development, Rural Development, or a related field is required.
A Bachelor’s degree complemented by substantial, pertinent professional experience may be deemed acceptable.
We seek a candidate with a proven track record of hands-on experience in the field, backed by a minimum of [X] years in a similar role. The ideal applicant will possess expertise in [specific skills or tools], along with a strong foundation in [relevant methodologies or industries]. A bachelor’s degree—or equivalent practical experience—in [related field] is required, though advanced qualifications are preferred. Additionally, familiarity with [specific systems, regulations, or processes] is essential to excel in this position.
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in program management, agribusiness development, agricultural market systems, or international development is required.
A minimum of five years of experience in a senior leadership or management position is required.
Proven track record in securing funding, expanding business opportunities, and mobilizing resources effectively.
Experienced in leading donor-funded initiatives and cultivating intricate stakeholder partnerships.
Proficient knowledge of Kenya’s agricultural sector, agribusiness environment, and development context is essential.
Proven expertise collaborating with governmental bodies, donor organizations, financial institutions, and private sector stakeholders is required.
We are seeking a candidate who demonstrates strong proficiency in a variety of key competencies, including analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. The ideal individual will possess the ability to collaborate seamlessly within cross-functional teams while maintaining a high level of adaptability in dynamic environments. Proficiency in data analysis and project management tools is essential, along with a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Additionally, the role requires exceptional organizational skills and the capacity to prioritize tasks efficiently under tight deadlines.
Providing strategic leadership and cultivating a compelling vision for the organization are essential responsibilities of this role. The position demands the ability to inspire teams, align resources with long-term objectives, and drive sustainable growth through innovative and forward-thinking initiatives. Strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of market trends are required to assess risks, identify opportunities, and make data-driven decisions that propel the company forward. Additionally, the role entails fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement while ensuring alignment with the company’s mission and strategic goals.
Skilled in cultivating business opportunities and executing strategic negotiations.
Skilled in fostering strong relationships and collaborating effectively with stakeholders to build mutually beneficial partnerships.
Experienced in overseeing financial performance and operational efficiency, with a proven ability to drive strategic decision-making and optimize resources.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in crafting clear, concise reports and delivering compelling presentations, coupled with the ability to communicate effectively across diverse audiences.
Proven capability to guide cross-functional teams and achieve targeted outcomes within fast-paced, evolving settings.
Requires unwavering professionalism, ethical integrity, and a steadfast commitment to accountability in all responsibilities.
If your qualifications align with the specified requirements, we invite you to submit your application. 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
