Country Manager Kenya

About the role

PUMPUM is a non-profit organisation working with entrepreneurs in 26 countries and 12 programmes to strengthen business ecosystems. As Country Manager Kenya, you lead the country acquisition team of seven freelance Country Representatives who engage change-driven SMEs in PUM's programmes, and you hold end-to-end responsibility for client relationships after acquisition. You report to the head of the Africa region and work with 15 other country managers, programme managers and other departments. The role is based in Kenya, preferably Nairobi, at 37.5 hours per week, on an independent contractor basis.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Country Impact Plan in line with PUM's mission and strategy.
• Strengthen business ecosystems through partnerships with entrepreneurs, business organisations and enabling bodies.
• Identify and secure funding from institutional donors, foundations and corporate partners.
• Foster strategic partnerships with SMEs and stakeholders through account management.
• Build, lead and coach the country representative team, including country team meetings.
• Qualify new clients against criteria on diversity, inclusion and alignment with green and social goals.
• Approve project proposals and work with programme managers to match projects with experts; occasionally welcome visiting experts.
• Engage personally with clients after acquisition, run briefings and debriefings, and monitor performance with data.
• Ensure compliance with policies, quality standards and project timelines.

Required profile

• Bachelor's or master's degree.
• At least 10 years of experience in a coordinating or leading role, in a commercial or acquisition-focused team.
• Strong local SME network and understanding of business ecosystem development.
• Experience managing a remote team across the country and occasional travel within Kenya.
• Willingness to work in a growth-oriented organisation and to contribute to its professionalisation.
• Fluent English; Swahili is a plus.

Required skills

• Fundraising and knowledge of local donor opportunities.
• Performance management and stakeholder engagement.
• Data-driven approach and comfort with digital tools, including Microsoft 365.
• Remote collaboration and intercultural communication.

What we offer

• A competitive fee aligned with local market standards, with an expected commitment of about 37.5 hours per week, up to 1,800 hours per year.
• An initial one-year assignment, extendable on the basis of needs and collaboration.
• The independent contractor is responsible for their own taxes, social security, insurance and other statutory obligations.
• Reference checks and a declaration of good conduct are part of the selection process.