The ideal candidates will combine expertise in livelihoods, economic inclusion, gender equality, and digital skills/programming within a Market Systems Development framework. They will oversee the project’s dual-pathway strategy, which involves fostering the expansion of youth-led entrepreneurship initiatives—particularly through partnerships with Refugee-Led Organizations (Los), private sector actors, and digital outsourcing agencies—while also improving access to equitable, secure, and formal wage employment. The Senior Livelihoods and Economic Inclusion Officer will ensure all livelihood interventions are gender-responsive, inclusive of marginalized groups, and aligned with both Kenya’s policy framework and Canadian market linkages to create sustainable and dignified work opportunities.
Oversee critical operational functions, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and adherence to established policies and procedures. Manage a diverse portfolio of tasks, including project execution, resource allocation, and performance monitoring, to drive efficiency and achieve strategic goals. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for improvement, implement innovative solutions, and maintain high standards of accountability. Lead initiatives that foster collaboration, streamline workflows, and enhance overall productivity while ensuring compliance with industry regulations and internal guidelines.
We are seeking a seasoned professional to provide strategic direction and technical leadership, driving the execution of innovative solutions and overseeing their successful deployment across the organization. This role requires a deep understanding of emerging technologies, coupled with the ability to align technical initiatives with overarching business objectives. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to foster alignment, streamline processes, and ensure scalable, high-performance systems. Additionally, they will mentor emerging talent, champion best practices, and uphold rigorous standards to maintain operational excellence and competitive advantage.
Develop and implement market-driven strategies aimed at enhancing access to technical, vocational, and digital employment opportunities for displaced and host-community youth within the designated placement region, either Dadaab or Kakuna/Kalahari.
You will lead the project’s dual-pathway strategy, driving forward youth-led entrepreneurship initiatives while simultaneously broadening access to stable, fair, and formal wage-employment opportunities.
Conduct in-depth labor and market analyses to pinpoint high-potential sectors within Kenyan, Canadian, and global markets, guaranteeing that training programs stay aligned with current labor requirements, particularly by prioritizing the incorporation of digital skills and programming competencies.
As a professional engaged in entrepreneurship and the cultivation of digital ecosystems, you will be responsible for identifying and leveraging emerging digital trends to foster innovation and sustainable growth. This role demands a strategic mindset to develop and implement frameworks that enhance connectivity, collaboration, and value creation across diverse digital platforms. Your duties will include analyzing market dynamics, cultivating partnerships, and designing scalable solutions to drive digital transformation. Additionally, you will oversee the integration of cutting-edge technologies, ensuring alignment with business objectives and industry best practices. Proficiency in digital strategy, ecosystem design, and cross-functional leadership is essential, along with a proven track record of delivering measurable outcomes in dynamic environments.
Enhance the capabilities of local Rural Livelihood Organizations (Los) and Entrepreneurship Support Organizations (SOS) to deliver exceptional business incubation, acceleration, and financial linkage services.
Contribute to the creation of independent, self-sustaining digital outsourcing agencies designed to bridge youth with global remote employment opportunities, effectively circumventing local regulatory obstacles associated with formal hiring processes.
Work collaboratively with global partners to evaluate inclusive business frameworks and connect youth-led initiatives with Canadian market demands.
Dedicated to advancing policy initiatives and facilitating the resolution of administrative impediments, this role involves spearheading advocacy efforts and streamlining bureaucratic processes to achieve strategic objectives.
Technical support will be extended to relevant duty-bearers, particularly the Department of Refugee Services (DRS), in optimizing the issuance processes for IDs, KRA PINs, and Class M work permits for refugees.
Operationalize national inclusion frameworks—including the Sharia Plan and the Refugees Act (2021)—to facilitate the transition of youth from informal incentive-based employment to formal, safeguarded labor sectors.
Engage in collaborative discussions with representatives from government and private sector organizations to champion equitable hiring standards and oversee the implementation of inclusive apprenticeship programs.
We are seeking a professional with expertise in Gender Responsiveness and Social Inclusion (DESI) to drive inclusive practices and ensure equitable outcomes across programs. The role requires a deep understanding of intersectional approaches, gender dynamics, and social barriers to participation. Key responsibilities include integrating DESI principles into project design, implementation, and evaluation, as well as advocating for marginalized and underrepresented groups. Additionally, the position demands collaboration with diverse stakeholders to promote gender equality and social justice, alongside monitoring and reporting on Age-related progress and impact.
Apply an intersectional perspective to every aspect of programming to ensure that livelihoods, economic inclusion, and digital skills initiatives proactively remove obstacles for women and girls.
Ensure all interventions effectively mitigate time poverty and mobility constraints faced by young women through the inclusion of essential support systems, such as childcare services and safe transportation options.
Mainstream disability and LGBTQ+ inclusion must be integrated into all livelihoods programming, with a focus on ensuring accessible facilities and rights-based, confidential outreach.
Collaborate with Women’s Rights Organizations to dismantle restrictive social norms and gender-based occupational barriers, thereby enhancing women’s opportunities to secure high-return technical and digital positions.
The position entails overseeing coordination efforts, ensuring accurate reporting, and maintaining rigorous quality assurance standards throughout all operational processes. Key responsibilities include managing cross-functional collaboration, compiling and validating detailed reports, and implementing systematic checks to uphold consistency and compliance with established protocols. The role demands meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical capabilities, and the ability to streamline workflows while mitigating risks associated with data integrity and procedural adherence.
Ensure rigorous monitoring of the quality and effectiveness of livelihood interventions, systematically disaggregating data by sex, age, and disability to enable responsive and adaptive management strategies.
As the designated representative, engage in livelihoods-focused working groups and cultivate robust partnerships with UNHCR, county authorities, and private sector employers to advance collaborative initiatives.
Compile and share impactful narratives and key takeaways from refugee economic inclusion initiatives to shape more effective policy frameworks and practical approaches.
Qualifications
A Master’s degree in International Development, Economics, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Gender Studies, Computer Science, or a comparable discipline—obtained through either formal education or a blend of relevant academic and professional experience—is required.
With a minimum of five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in designing and implementing livelihoods, economic inclusion, or market-based development initiatives, preferably within an international NGO or development agency, the ideal candidate will demonstrate a proven track record in this field.
Proven expertise in intersectional analysis, coupled with a strong history of integrating livelihoods, economic inclusion, gender equality, and digital skills/programming into cohesive initiatives.
Skilled professionals should possess a proven track record of working in refugee, displacement-affected, or fragile contexts, with particular expertise in the Kakuna/Kalahari or Dadaab regions, while employing conflict-sensitive and context-responsive strategies.
Demonstrated proficiency in Results-Based Management (RBM), with a strong capacity to develop and oversee intricate livelihoods initiatives and perform comprehensive labor market assessments.
Proficiency in entrepreneurship support mechanisms, including incubation, acceleration, and financial linkages, as well as expertise in wage employment pathways such as VET alignment, apprenticeships, and private sector collaboration.
Proficient in understanding the digital livelihoods’ ecosystem, encompassing digital outsourcing firms, remote employment platforms, and the incorporation of digital and AI competencies into training initiatives.
A thorough knowledge of Kenya’s legal framework governing refugees, specifically the Refugees Act (2021), the Sharia Plan, and the procedural requirements for securing national IDs, KRA PINs, and Class M work permits is essential.
Proven expertise in integrating Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (DESI) principles, with a strong focus on the inclusion of persons with disabilities and LGBTQ+ youth.
Proficiency in both English and Kiswahili is essential, with strong written and oral communication skills. For the role based in Dadaab, fluency in Somali is mandatory, while the Kakuna-based position necessitates fluency in either Turkey or Karamojong.
In keeping with our dedication to fostering gender equality and advancing women in leadership roles, we actively encourage applications from qualified female candidates for these positions.
Demonstrated expertise in essential skills and knowledge areas relevant to the role, with a proven ability to apply these competencies effectively in professional settings. Proven track record of meeting key performance indicators and delivering measurable results through the application of specialized capabilities. Strong aptitude for problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability within dynamic work environments. Commitment to continuous professional development to maintain proficiency in evolving industry standards and best practices.
Proven capability to convert strategic direction into actionable implementation guidance, provide on-site assistance, and ensure responsible follow-through.
Skilled in fostering collaboration, cultivating relationships, and driving impactful engagement across diverse teams, communities, institutions, and sectors.
Strong judgment, discretion, and the capacity to manage confidential matters with integrity and professionalism are essential.
Demonstrates a profound respect for diverse cultures, an unwavering dedication to inclusivity, and the capacity to adapt seamlessly while fostering collaborative and participatory work environments.
Skilled at juggling competing demands, working autonomously, and producing exceptional results under tight deadlines in a high-pressure setting.
Here’s an overview of what you can anticipate when collaborating with our team:
The position requires a 40-hour workweek, with flexibility for adjusted schedules and a hybrid work model.
You will be entitled to 21 days of paid annual leave each year.
Comprehensive health insurance benefits are provided to eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enrollment in the plan is available during the designated open enrollment period or within 30 days of a qualifying life event, such as marriage, birth of a child, or loss of other coverage. The company covers a significant portion of the premium costs, with employees responsible for the remaining balance. Coverage typically begins on the first of the month following enrollment. Additional wellness programs, such as health screenings and gym membership discounts, may also be offered as part of the benefits package.
Complimentary enrollment in an extensive e-learning platform featuring over 350 courses spanning diverse subject areas.
Engage in meaningful interactions and build connections with individuals from diverse global backgrounds.
Joining a collaborative, supportive, and highly motivated team environment allows for professional growth while fostering a positive workplace culture.
To apply, please submit your application via the designated method outlined below. Ensure all required documentation and materials are included as specified in the job posting. Follow the instructions carefully to complete the submission process accurately and efficiently. If any additional information is requested, provide it promptly to avoid delays in the review of your application.
To submit your application, please utilize the provided link(s) on the company’s official website.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
5 - 7 years
