Program Officer - Weconomy at World Vision Kenya

Purpose of the Position:

The position is responsible for leading on new initiatives that WVK will be implementing related to ‘bottom of the pyramid’ (BOP) business development, start up business support, impact investing through the Weconomy Programme, and youth empowerment initiatives.

The officer will also support the strategic direction and implementation of branding World Vision Kenya and coordination of technical engagement; intelligence research on corporate donor strategies, products focus and forecasts, prepositioning for solicited and unsolicited opportunities and generate set annual Local grants income for World Vision Kenya.

In order to successfully do so, the Program Officer Weconomy must be able to effectively communicate World Vision’s Christian ethos and demonstrate a quality of spiritual life that serves as an example to others.

Major Responsibilities:

Weconomy Project (s) Engagement and Resource Acquisition45%

• Coordinate the overall engagement of the Weconomy initiatives as per the terms of reference designed between WVK and WV Finland
• Promote and nurture partnerships with corporates and international companies during and after implementation process
• Identify corporate donor priorities and intelligence on possible opportunities
• Ensure the delivery of resources according to planned Weconomy targets; also align this initiative with other RAM activities and ensure collaboration and support
• Identify potential business and engage other partners to participate in the Weconomy Programme in Kenya
• Communication and collaboration with World Vision Finland and other partners in Weconomy programmes
• Ensure continuous engagement and networking with relevant stakeholders of Weconomy project(s)
• Prepare work plans/action plans regular reports and updates, risks issues and lessons learned logs on Country specific Weconomy work in coordination with RAM team, concerned WVI staff, implementing partners and stakeholders.
• In collaboration with Integrated Programs/Operations technical staff, maintain updated WVK Capacity Statements for sectors as per Corporates, SO and or Donor interests
• Together with RAM team design programs/projects that leverage unique, high value contributions from international foundations and multinational companies
• Proactively provide Weconomy donor updates on existing grants and keep the donor relations on course
• Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and other corporate bodies to maximize value
• In collaboration with Integrated Programs/Operations, support Weconomy donor exposure to WVK’s work with an aim of expressing our wide sector(s) capacity
• Ensure active networking and initiate strategic meetings between Corporates/donors representatives and RAM Director or designee
• Coordinate development and review of appropriate sectoral marketing products for key Corporates/donors
• Facilitate internal & external engagement of Weconomy business processes & communication protocols
• Research new and innovative projects and ideas that will be developed further into products, opportunities, concepts and proposals
• Identify key donor trends, shorter and longer-term program opportunities
• Support the search for donor intelligence and information that will facilitate prepositioning and establishment of partnership for opportunities as well as develop clear understanding of donor expectations regarding grants acquisition and implementation
• Ensure good relationships between WVK and donors and World Vision International Support Office by meeting all contractual obligations on Weconomy initiatives
• Visit at least one grant on quarterly basis to establish what works and adopt promising practices for proposal/concept development.

Market Research and Intelligence on Donor Perspectives and Changing Landscapes 30%

• Participate in technical donor working groups and related upcoming innovative research platforms
• Participate in technical forums for innovations and research findings
• Attend international conferences, exhibitions and other Weconomy cross-learning sessions
• Explore opportunities especially for youth and women focused engagement in relation to Weconomy and other international foundations
• Identify universities and other research institutions for technology transfer
• Participate in research, development and implementation of new initiatives that make RAM function more efficient and effective

Capacity Building, Monitoring & Documentation for Enhanced WVK Brand 20%

• Increase awareness of World Vision's brand and work among the public, corporates through the print and broadcast news media.
• Work closely with communications teams, other departments and partners to develop and disseminate corporate marketing materials.
• Participate in the production of communications resources for World Vision web and social media outlets with focus on Weconomy
• Support the status reporting and stability of media relations campaigns of the Weconomy project-oriented work efforts.
• Educate both internal and external teams and partners on Weconomy concept as platform of fundraising

Others 5%

Any other duties as may be assigned by the Supervisor

Qualifications: Education/Knowledge/Technical Skills and Experience:

The following may be acquired through a combination of formal or self-education, prior experience or on-the-job training:

• Bachelor degree in Economics, Business or related field
• Post graduate qualifications in Economics or International Business Development or related field will be an added advantage
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in the area of business management and corporate affairs
• Prior experience in working with private sector companies and networking with business entities, government and non-governmental organizations.
• Effective interpersonal, communication and reporting skills, including ability to build relations with external and internal Stakeholders.
• Proficient in computer applications.
• High level of cross-cultural interpersonal skills, personal maturity, and proven ability to influence multiple stakeholders towards a common purpose

Other Competencies / Attributes:

• Strong commercial skills and communication competency, with ability to understand the constraints under which corporations and community works.
• Highly developed planning and analytical skills, with ability to critically assess new projects and develop new concepts in consultation with corporate and community based organizations and institutions.