THE OPPORTUNITY
The Lead, Entrepreneurship will facilitate the execution of entrepreneurship-focused initiatives across Kenya, collaborating closely with the Head, Entrepreneurship. This position will leverage specialized technical knowledge in entrepreneurship to guide, oversee, and refine the Foundation’s programmatic efforts, ensuring they remain aligned with 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 drive innovations to bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
You can make meaningful contributions to our team by leveraging your expertise in [specific field or skill] to [specific task or project]. Collaboration with cross-functional teams will be essential as you work to [specific responsibility or goal]. Your ability to [specific requirement, e.g., analyze data, streamline processes, or solve complex problems] will directly impact our success. Additionally, you will be responsible for [specific duty], ensuring [specific outcome or standard]. Experience in [industry or technical skill] and proficiency in [tool or software] are required, along with strong [soft skill, e.g., communication or problem-solving]. Your role will involve [specific task], contributing to [company objective or initiative].
Leverage technical expertise in entrepreneurship and employment systems to contribute to the formulation of the country strategy.
Oversee designated initiatives in entrepreneurship and financial inclusion, with an emphasis on rural and agricultural financing programs.
Assist in customizing and executing program strategies to align with the local environment, thereby ensuring they effectively address regional needs and leverage available opportunities.
Work collaboratively with implementation partners to guarantee the successful execution of program activities, contributing specialized expertise as needed.
Maintain and enhance partnerships with collaborating organizations and stakeholders to ensure the achievement of program objectives.
Collaborate on the development and implementation of programs aimed at fostering innovation and scaling entrepreneurial ventures.
Your role involves advancing organizational knowledge and strengthening evidence-based practices by recording lessons learned, compiling success stories, and engaging in internal evaluations.
Provide strategic insights and key learnings to both internal teams and external stakeholders, fostering informed thought leadership on youth employment across Africa.
Conduct thorough due diligence and review procedures to assess new program initiatives and partnership opportunities.
Monitor program performance and provide detailed analyses of key metrics and advancements toward established outcomes.
Strive to ensure that all programs are fully aligned with the Foundation’s guiding values, core principles, and established country-specific objectives.
Facilitate the organization and alignment of internal working groups while fostering cross-functional collaboration centered on entrepreneurship initiatives.
Continuously develop deep proficiency in entrepreneurship and the surrounding ecosystem through ongoing learning and engagement initiatives.
WHO YOU ARE
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Finance, Business, or a related field—or commensurate professional experience—is required.
With a minimum of ten years’ experience in microfinance institutions, banks, or investment companies operating in Africa to support small and medium-sized enterprises—particularly in Kenya—and at least five years in a managerial role, the ideal candidate will have a proven track record in this specialized sector.
A comprehensive grasp of Kenya’s entrepreneurial environment, encompassing rural, agricultural, and informal sectors, is essential.
Demonstrated proficiency in collaborating with or overseeing implementation partners throughout project lifecycles is required.
A proven understanding of systems change methodologies and a commitment to adaptive learning are essential.
Seeking an individual with strong analytical capabilities, strategic thinking skills, and the capacity to serve as a collaborative thought leader in the Foundation’s strategic planning efforts.
Demonstrates strong proficiency in financial planning and the capacity to oversee a substantial portfolio of assets effectively.
Demonstrates mastery in both quantitative and qualitative business analytics methodologies.
Exceptional proficiency in verbal communication, written correspondence, and delivering compelling presentations, with a demonstrated ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences across cultural backgrounds.
Demonstrated expertise in project management, with a proven ability to oversee initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
A strong understanding of digital inclusion policy is highly desirable.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
