Job Summary:
The Partnerships Associate will assist in overseeing Chance Kenya’s portfolio of partner educational institutions (PEI’s), ensuring the effectiveness and long-term viability of our ISA investments. This position demands a proactive professional capable of fostering partner engagement, evaluating data to identify growth opportunities, and advancing the department’s strategic objectives with minimal supervision. The ideal candidate will operate with a strong sense of accountability and initiative.
Oversee and execute critical duties including the development and implementation of strategic plans, the management of cross-functional teams, and the oversight of daily operations to ensure alignment with organizational objectives. Duties encompass conducting thorough market research to identify growth opportunities, fostering innovation through process improvements, and maintaining robust stakeholder relationships to enhance collaboration. Additionally, the role involves monitoring performance metrics, preparing detailed reports for senior leadership, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies.
You will be responsible for cultivating and maintaining strategic alliances to drive mutual growth and innovation. This role involves identifying high-potential partners, negotiating mutually beneficial agreements, and ensuring seamless collaboration. Additionally, you will oversee the implementation of partnership initiatives, monitor performance metrics, and address any challenges that may arise. A strong understanding of market trends and stakeholder needs, along with excellent communication and negotiation skills, is essential. Experience in relationship management and a proven track record of successful partnerships are required to excel in this position.
The Partnership Manager will be supported in cultivating and sustaining robust, enduring partnerships with existing collaborators, addressing their requirements comprehensively while proactively uncovering fresh prospects.
Help establish, document, and oversee partnership agreements and contracts.
Assist in the ongoing assessment of current partnerships to verify alignment with Chance’s mission and long-term strategic goals.
Develop structured engagement plans tailored to each PEI, detailing monthly and quarterly touchpoints, conducting comprehensive performance reviews, and implementing targeted improvement initiatives.
Track and evaluate progress in alignment with partnership agreements, verifying that Performance Excellence Indicators (PEI’s) adhere to Service Level Agreements (SLAs), meet specified reporting deadlines, and comply with system usage requirements.
The position involves providing comprehensive data analysis, generating detailed reports, and offering strategic support to enhance decision-making processes. Responsibilities include collecting, processing, and interpreting complex datasets to identify trends, performance metrics, and key insights. The role requires expertise in data visualization tools, advanced spreadsheet skills, and proficiency in business intelligence software to deliver actionable recommendations. Additionally, the candidate will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align reporting outcomes with organizational objectives and support long-term strategic planning initiatives. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to translate data into clear, concise insights are essential for success in this role.
Oversee the partner dashboard and tracking system to maintain flawless accuracy and strict adherence to monthly reporting requirements.
Leverage data-driven insights to pinpoint trends, uncover opportunities for process optimization, and foster strategic partnerships that drive departmental growth.
Compose concise, structured, and impactful reports detailing the partnership pipeline, progress toward established targets, and essential performance indicators for distribution to internal stakeholders.
Offer continuous assistance to PEI staff regarding system operation, issue escalations, and software updates.
Oversee the comprehensive annual audit process for all designated PEI’s, guaranteeing strict adherence to partnership agreements, reporting protocols, and payment schedules.
Responsible for ensuring accurate and timely disbursement of funds as well as providing comprehensive support to portfolio management activities, maintaining meticulous records, and collaborating with stakeholders to optimize financial operations and compliance with established policies and procedures.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Finance, SAM, Communications & Community, Repayments, and Data to ensure funds are disbursed to partners promptly and with precision.
Confirm all cohorts within the PEI meet the required commitment fee obligations and are actively in session prior to processing any disbursements to the PEI.
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, or Information Technology) or equivalent professional experience is required. A minimum of three years of hands-on experience in software development, systems engineering, or a closely related discipline is essential. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++ is mandatory. Candidates must demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment. Familiarity with Agile methodologies, DevOps practices, and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure) is highly desirable. Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary to convey technical concepts effectively to stakeholders at all levels. Experience with full-stack development, API integration, or cybersecurity frameworks is a plus.
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Social Sciences, Project Management, International Development, Marketing, or a related discipline is required.
Seeking candidates with 2 to 3 years of demonstrated success in partnerships, business development, data analysis, or project management roles. Prior experience in the education sector, financial services, or impact investing is highly beneficial.
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capabilities, demonstrated through a history of effectively addressing operational challenges ranging from routine to moderately complex in nature.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities are essential, enabling the cultivation of meaningful connections, the nurturing of relationships across varied stakeholders, and the delivery of information with clarity, whether in written or spoken formats.
Demonstrates exceptional mastery of Advanced Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
Highly proactive and adaptable, with a strong aptitude for managing diverse responsibilities while maintaining focus on key objectives. Consistently tracks performance against defined benchmarks and ensures timely completion of tasks within established deadlines.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both your professional growth and personal well-being. This includes competitive health, dental, and vision insurance plans, as well as retirement savings options with company contributions. Employees enjoy generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays, along with flexible scheduling where applicable. Additional perks may include wellness programs, professional development opportunities, and employee discounts on company products or services.
Annual leave entitlement amounts to 21 days per year, in addition to national holidays.
We provide training, learning, and development opportunities, along with financial assistance for continued education.
Comprehensive medical insurance and assistance programs, along with wellness initiatives, are provided to ensure employee health and support.
A fulfilling professional setting within a mission-oriented organization that prioritizes support and offers consistent, well-defined pathways for career advancement.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
2 - 3 years
