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Home Jobs Nairobi Project Lead, Senior Associate

Project Lead, Senior Associate

Busara Center  · Consulting

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 4 September 2026
Posted June 8, 2026

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to join our team in this pivotal role. This position requires a strong background in [specific field or industry], with proven expertise in [key skill or area]. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical abilities, outstanding communication skills, and the capacity to drive impactful results. Responsibilities include [list key responsibilities, e.g., project management, strategic planning, team leadership], while ensuring adherence to [relevant standards, regulations, or policies]. Additionally, the role demands proficiency in [specific tools, software, or methodologies] and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments. A commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and delivering high-quality outcomes is essential for success in this position.

The Senior Project Associate will focus on overseeing Busra’s Social Cohesion portfolio, with responsibilities spanning a range of multi-method research initiatives and capacity-building collaborations with civil society organizations (CSOs) and government agencies throughout East Africa. The primary objective is to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing civic engagement behaviors and to translate these insights into actionable strategies that CSOs and government agencies can use to enhance social cohesion, civic engagement, and participation across the region. Additionally, the role will involve directing the development, rigorous testing, and ongoing management of various tools designed to bolster portfolio operations, as well as providing strategic oversight for capacity-strengthening initiatives across the region.

The Senior Project Associate serves as the primary project manager for dedicated external Busra projects, rapidly acquiring an in-depth mastery of multifaceted challenges to deliver engagements with precision, adhering to strict timelines and financial constraints. By leveraging all available resources, they ensure each initiative meets the highest standards of excellence. Additionally, this role involves devising innovative yet meticulously structured solutions to address client and partner requirements while overseeing both internal and external relationships with strategic acumen and polished professionalism.

Senior Project Associates collaborate closely with the Projects Division and other Busra teams, ensuring efficient coordination and management of staff while providing elevated seniority and strategic guidance in project design and stakeholder engagement.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to lead and execute key project initiatives with precision and accountability. The role demands meticulous planning, coordination, and oversight to ensure deliverables meet established timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Responsibilities include developing comprehensive project plans, managing cross-functional teams, and mitigating risks to uphold operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, adaptability to dynamic environments, and a proven track record of driving successful project outcomes in [industry/sector, if applicable]. Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies, along with exceptional communication and leadership abilities, is essential. Additionally, the position requires a collaborative mindset to foster stakeholder engagement and alignment with organizational objectives.

The Senior Project Associate will collaborate closely with Busra offices and engage directly with academic researchers and advisory clients to execute an array of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

Design and execution of research projects, encompassing the formulation of methodologies, data collection strategies, and analysis frameworks, are core responsibilities. Implementation involves applying theoretical frameworks to practical scenarios, ensuring alignment with project objectives and industry standards. Collaboration with cross-functional teams to refine research questions and validate findings is essential. Additionally, the role requires proficiency in statistical tools and software to process and interpret complex datasets accurately. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are crucial for deriving meaningful insights and supporting evidence-based decision-making.

Conduct comprehensive research initiatives encompassing the entire process, from initial design and literature reviews to conducting qualitative interviews, gathering data, performing analysis, compiling reports, and sharing findings with stakeholders.

Develop and execute robust mixed-method research frameworks specifically designed to align with Busra’s initiatives focused on social cohesion.

Facilitate high-level stakeholder workshops to co-design interventions, leveraging evidence and research derived from project data and existing literature.

Assist in the development, implementation, and sharing of Busra Social Cohesion research initiatives.

Crafting and executing strategies to maximize the utilization and influence of research findings among essential stakeholder groups.

The role focuses on enhancing organizational capabilities and delivering effective training programs. Responsibilities include designing, implementing, and evaluating capacity-building initiatives to strengthen team performance and institutional effectiveness. Key requirements involve expertise in curriculum development, facilitation of learning sessions, and a proven ability to measure training impact. The position demands strong interpersonal skills to engage diverse stakeholders and adapt training approaches to varied contexts. Collaboration with internal teams and external partners is essential to align initiatives with strategic goals and ensure sustainable skill development.

Spearhead the development and execution of training programs and assessment frameworks tailored for civil society organizations and collaborating partners.

Provide training and facilitation assistance to fellow Associates and Analysts.

Collaborate with civil society organizations and government entities to enhance their ability to integrate behavioral insights and research outcomes into program development and implementation.

Devise, implement, and distribute innovative tools and resources designed to enhance organizational capabilities through structured development, rigorous testing, and strategic dissemination.

We are seeking a skilled professional to oversee project execution and stakeholder engagement with precision and strategic insight. The ideal candidate will be responsible for coordinating cross-functional teams, ensuring timely and budget-conscious project delivery, and maintaining transparent communication with all stakeholders. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying risks, resolving conflicts, and aligning project objectives with organizational goals. Strong leadership, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to cultivate productive stakeholder relationships are essential. Experience in project management methodologies and a track record of successful project outcomes are highly desirable.

Plan, oversee, and successfully deliver external and internal engagements in their entirety with minimal oversight, end-to-end.

You will act as the main liaison between clients and partners, addressing their needs by anticipating challenges and resolving issues through clear, consistent communication.

Cultivate and sustain connections within the stakeholder and funder network while keeping informed about evolving trends that impact Busra’s strategy for fostering social cohesion.

Oversee and facilitate the collaboration of team members in executing activities throughout the designated region.

Ensure consistent and prompt communication of progress updates to fellow team members and project leadership.

Collaborate effectively with finance teams to guarantee prompt adherence to funder mandates, project budgets, and all related financial obligations.

Oversee and ensure adherence to project timelines, deliverables, and staffing requirements, while maintaining accountability for all associated reports.

Facilitate seamless project onboarding and offboarding processes to enhance knowledge management initiatives.

Provide guidance to or collaborate with fellow Associates in meeting all research and engagement-related obligations.

Assist the project supervisor with any additional tasks or responsibilities as deemed necessary to ensure the successful completion of the project.

Tasked with spearheading key organizational initiatives, the role demands meticulous planning, execution, and oversight of critical projects to ensure alignment with strategic objectives. Accountable for fostering cross-departmental collaboration, the position involves coordinating efforts across teams to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, the role requires maintaining rigorous adherence to compliance standards, safeguarding organizational integrity, and mitigating potential risks through proactive monitoring and mitigation strategies.

Additionally, Senior Project Associates shoulder key organizational duties to foster a robust and efficient organizational environment.

Collaborate with the Associate team to facilitate goal-setting initiatives, establish measurable objectives and key results (OKRs), and organize team-building activities.

Design and facilitate professional development workshops tailored for the Associate and Analyst teams, providing targeted skills training and leadership opportunities.

Foster collaboration and alignment among various organizational teams to establish a unified and effective workplace culture.

Prepare and finalize all mandatory focus contracts, conduct thorough performance evaluations, and document progress snapshots as required.

Provide support and actively advocate for internal initiatives as needed.

Mentor Analysts and Officers by exemplifying professionalism and intellectual rigor, guiding them toward excellence in their roles.

Participate actively in internal committees as needed to support organizational objectives and initiatives.

Requires expertise in identifying key responsibilities and aligning them with organizational objectives. Possesses extensive experience in managing complex projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to quality standards. Demonstrates proficiency in [specific tools/technologies if mentioned], along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Expects candidates to exhibit exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, to collaborate effectively across teams. Familiarity with [industry-specific regulations/standards if mentioned] is essential. Prior experience in [relevant function/industry] is highly preferred, as is a track record of achieving measurable results. Must demonstrate leadership qualities and the capacity to mentor junior team members while driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Candidates must meet the following baseline qualifications to be considered for this role. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required, along with at least three years of hands-on experience in a comparable position. Proficiency in industry-specific software and tools is essential, as is a strong grasp of technical principles. Excellent problem-solving abilities, sharp analytical skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively are also necessary. Additionally, effective communication and organizational talents are required to ensure seamless project execution.

Professionals must possess valid work authorization in Kenya or demonstrate a current residence in Kenya—or express willingness to relocate to the country.

With a minimum of seven years of professional expertise in social cohesion, peace building, civic engagement, governance, or a closely related discipline, candidates are expected to meet this requirement.

Experienced in delivering organizational training initiatives and capacity-building programs tailored for civil society organizations and public sector stakeholders.

Fluent proficiency in both spoken and written English and Kiswahili is essential.

Proven ability to collaborate effectively with individuals and groups from varied cultural backgrounds and professional domains, fostering strong relationships through clear and adaptable communication.

Proven expertise in facilitating both individual and group sessions, coupled with exceptional oral presentation capabilities.

Must possess strong interpersonal skills to cultivate and sustain high-level relationships with partner organizations and institutional donors.

Strong proficiency in organization and project management, with a proven track record of successfully leading intricate initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.

A highly adaptable and driven professional, capable of prioritizing and executing multiple responsibilities with efficiency in dynamic settings.

Proven capability to successfully deliver projects with an international perspective, while also advancing institutional strategy and planning efforts.

Seeking candidates who possess the following qualifications: a proven track record in [specific field/industry], proficiency in [relevant software/tools], and strong problem-solving abilities. Additionally, ideal applicants will have [X years] of experience in [specific role or task], along with exceptional communication and teamwork skills. A degree in [relevant field] or equivalent professional certification is preferred, though equivalent experience may be considered. Familiarity with [industry regulations/standards] and a commitment to continuous learning are highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate adaptability, leadership potential, and a passion for innovation in their respective domain.

Skilled in crafting policy briefs or research communications tailored for non-technical audiences.

Proven track record in leading and developing teams within research-driven or consultative environments.

Possesses a strong understanding of behavioral science research methodologies, with particular expertise in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Proficiency in quantitative analysis tools, including STATE and R, as well as data collection platforms like Survey CTO, is essential.

Professionals with a proven track record of collaboration within civil society organizations or government institutions in East Africa are encouraged to apply.

Advanced degree in social sciences, public policy, development studies, or a related field.

Skilled in overseeing the creation and refinement of products or tools aimed at enhancing organizational capabilities and performance.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND

Experience Required

7 years

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