Associate, Star Venture (Nairobi)

About the role

The EBRD Star Venture programme supports high-potential startups in emerging markets through advisory services, international mentorship, corporate partnerships, blended finance and market access. This Associate role delivers the programme's day-to-day activities in assigned Sub-Saharan African countries, mainly Nigeria and Kenya, under the supervision of the Associate Director. The posting ends on 16 November 2026.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and run annual country plans, coordinate advisory projects and ecosystem interventions, and monitor delivery against donor commitments and EBRD policies.
• Sourcing and selection: build local referral channels, screen applications, prepare shortlists and own delivery of startup support, tracking progress and milestones.
• Support fundraising by providing country-level pipeline, budget and impact data for donor proposals and reports.
• Design and deliver ecosystem-building activities and manage partnerships with accelerators, investors, corporates and universities.
• Represent Star Venture externally and escalate strategic issues to management.
• Monitor portfolio performance, KPIs and risks, and capture lessons learned.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree (master's preferred) or equivalent experience; 10+ years of experience preferred.
• Significant experience in startup acceleration, venture capital, venture-building, innovation advisory or entrepreneurship support programmes.
• Knowledge of donor-funded work and donor fund mobilisation desirable.
• Fluency in English and French, written and spoken; fluency in the country's language is essential.
• Ability to travel within the country and internationally.

Required skills

• Business and financial analysis, including reading accounts and spotting red flags.
• Project management, problem solving and analytical skills.
• Communication, presentation and negotiation; writing advisory proposals, terms of reference or reports desirable.
• Microsoft Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint.