Advocacy Manager at Co-operative Bank of Kenya

The key pillars of this role shall include:

• Protect: Ensure the existing gains in the Cooperative Movement
• Empower: Ensure all stakeholders are adequately informed and capacity built to perform their primary roles effectively
• Advance the interests and business of the SACCOs it represents

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Policy Advocacy and Representation

• Represent the SACCO sector in engagements with government ministries, Parliament, regulators (including SASRA), and other relevant institutions.
• Monitor emerging policies, legislation, and regulatory developments affecting SACCOs and the cooperative sector.
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, and responses on sector-related matters.

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, development partners, cooperative organizations, and industry stakeholders.
• Represent the Union and the SACCO sector in national and international forums, conferences, and policy dialogues.

Sector Awareness and Advocacy Campaigns

• Design and implement advocacy initiatives that promote the growth, visibility, and credibility of SACCOs.
• Lead campaigns and programs that advance cooperative values, financial inclusion, and good governance within the sector.

Communication and Media Engagement

• Work with Corporate Affairs to communicate policy positions and sector priorities through media briefings, press statements, and publications.
• Support efforts to strengthen the public image and reputation of the cooperative movement.

Research and Policy Analysis

• Conduct research on emerging issues affecting SACCOs such as regulation, taxation, financial inclusion, and sector competitiveness.
• Provide strategic insights and recommendations to the Union Management and the Board.

Coordination of Advocacy Programs

• Develop and implement THE UNION’s advocacy strategy and annual work plans.
• Coordinate advocacy activities across regions and with member SACCOs.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Track progress and impact of advocacy initiatives.
• Prepare periodic reports for management and the Board on key policy and advocacy developments.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• A degree in Law and an advocate of the High court of Kenya.
• Experience: Over 5-10years in public policy, law, or financial sector advocacy and a deep familiarity with the Kenyan legislative process is mandatory. at least three (3) years in a senior management position.
• Regulatory Expertise: Proven ability to translate complex financial regulations into clear, actionable briefs for board members and CEOs.
• Strategic Communication: Ability to serve as the “executive face” of the movement during high-stakes media interviews and public hearings.
• Data-Driven Advocacy: Skilled at using sector-wide data to build compelling “white papers” for policymakers.
• Experience working in the cooperative sector or large membership organizations will be an added advantage.

Performance Metrics (KPIs)

• Legislative Wins: Success rate in amending or passing key legislation/policies
• Regulatory Relief: Measurable reduction in compliance burdens for smaller, rural-based SACCOs.
• Member Engagement: Increase in the number of SACCOs actively participating in national advocacy days/events

Key Competencies and Skills

• Strong knowledge of Kenyan Cooperative laws and Kenyan legislative process
• Self-driven and resourceful
• Demonstrated leadership, managerial, and supervisory skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Strong organizational and administrative abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Personal Attributes

• High integrity and ethical standards.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills.
• Team player with strong leadership capabilities.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.