Head of Awards, Localisation and Partnerships

About the role

The Head of Awards, Localisation and Partnerships leads award management, localisation and partnership development for Save the Children’s Kenya Country Office. Reporting to the Country Director, the role ensures compliance with donor requirements, organisational standards and drives strategic partnership engagement.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the full award lifecycle, including contracting, compliance, reporting and portfolio performance.
• Coordinate award planning, submission and management through the Award Management System (AMS) and ensure accurate documentation.
• Lead a team of four staff members and act as the primary focal point for members and donors on award‑related matters.
• Develop and implement localisation strategies, embedding local partners throughout programme design, implementation and learning.
• Monitor award performance, identify risks and opportunities, and drive corrective actions to ensure timely delivery.
• Collaborate with Programme Development & Quality, Finance, Operations and Programme teams to align award requirements with programme delivery.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in award management, donor compliance and partnership development, preferably in an international development context.
• Strong leadership and coordination skills with the ability to manage high‑risk and complex awards.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, members and local partners.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Award Management System (AMS) and financial planning tools such as Agresso.
• Knowledge of localisation frameworks and partnership risk‑sharing practices.