Social Enterprise Manager at The Maa Trust

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced candidate to join our team as Social Enterprise Manager reporting to Chief Operations Officer
Overview

• The Social Enterprise Manager will be responsible for the overall coordination and management of the organization's social enterprises including. Maa Beadwork, Maa Bees, Maa Soap, and other future enterprises. The manager will lead all operational aspects, product development, marketing, and sales, both locally and internationally.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development, Sales and Marketing

• Identify potential business opportunities, markets, and potential clients through market research and analysis. Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote beadwork, honey and soap products locally, including marketing to camps and lodges in the Maasai Mara.
• Coordinate high quality experiential visits for tourists, showcasing the production process and promoting direct sales at HQ.
• Lead efforts to expand the enterprise's market reach internationally, including online sales and international designer and retail partnerships.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with potential buyers, corporate clients, and international partners. Drive the growth of international sales by building relationships with key stakeholders and distributors in global markets.
• Identify and secure new partnerships to expand the reach of Maa Beadwork products and other enterprise initiatives.
• Engage in fundraising and partnership-building efforts to support the long-term sustainability of the enterprises.

Business Operations Management & Coordination

• Oversee and manage day-to-day operations of the three social enterprises, ensuring efficiency, quality, and growth.
• Lead the planning and execution of business strategies to ensure profitability and sustainability of each enterprise.
• Manage financial performance, including budget oversight, cost control, and profitability analysis.
• Prepare regular sales reports and forecasts, and provide insights and recommendations for improvement. Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements in all business development activities.
• Oversee the entire production process processes, from material sourcing to final product delivery. Enhance operational efficiencies by streamlining production processes and ensuring consistent product quality.
• Implement systems to improve production capacity and reduce costs while maintaining ethical labor practices.

New Product Development & Innovation

• Lead the development of new products in line with market trends, customer feedback, and traditional Maasai artistry.
• Work closely with artisans and designers to create products that resonate with both local and international markets.
• Identify opportunities to expand product lines, add value, and incorporate innovation
• Develop and strengthen value chains to support the growth of the social enterprises.
• Establish partnerships with local suppliers to ensure a steady and cost-effective supply of raw materials. Explore opportunities for improving the value chain, including sustainable sourcing and ethical practices.

Experiential Visits & Tourism Integration

• Coordinate experiential visits for tourists to the HQ, ensuring a memorable and culturally enriching experience.
• Collaborate with local camps to integrate visits to the beadwork production center as part of tourists itineraries.

Team Leadership and Development

• Manage and mentor a team of production staff, and sales/marketing personnel.
• Provide capacity-building and training opportunities to improve staff skills in business management, production, and marketing.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and results-oriented work environment.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Social Enterprise Management, Marketing, or related field. A Masters degree in Business Administration is an added advantage.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in managing a business or social enterprise, preferably with a focus on production manufacturing, marketing, and sales.
• Strong business acumen with demonstrated success in scaling small or medium enterprises, social enterprises or similar.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software
• Experience in market research, and value chain development
• Familiarity with local and international markets and proficiency in digital marketing, e-commerce platforms, and international sales strategies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to develop strategic partnerships and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders.