Position Description
The Program Manager will oversee a team of business advisors and lead the implementation of a multi-country entrepreneurship and agribusiness support initiative. The role includes overall responsibility for program execution, team leadership, budget oversight, stakeholder engagement, and maintaining strong operational and technical quality. The Program Manager will also collaborate with global practice teams and support new business development as needed.
Key Responsibilities
Program Management, Quality and Impact
- Lead program activities and ensure timely, high-quality execution.
- Oversee recruitment of program participants in collaboration with partners.
- Maintain implementation work plans and ensure compliance with organizational standards and policies.
- Oversee the delivery of training and advisory services that meet local needs and global quality expectations.
- Provide coaching and leadership to the program team.
- Ensure strong coordination and progress tracking through regular team meetings.
- Ensure adherence to TechnoServe regulations and contractual obligations.
Capacity Development
- Lead the development and adaptation of training materials, tools and advisory approaches to reflect local context and program needs.
- Facilitate technical assistance through training, group sessions, and individual coaching.
- Support participating enterprises to address business challenges and identify growth opportunities.
- Manage communication channels that support learning, peer networking, and continuous engagement.
Communication
- Ensure clear and timely communication with internal teams and external audiences.
- Contribute to visibility of program results and share learnings with key stakeholders.
- Maintain strong collaboration with relevant TechnoServe departments and other programs.
Stakeholder Management & Representation
- Build and maintain strong relationships with government entities, private sector actors, industry bodies, and implementation partners.
- Represent TechnoServe and the program at internal and external engagements.
Technical Leadership
- Provide technical leadership in areas related to business growth, access to finance, and enterprise strengthening.
- Support innovation in tools, products, and methodologies that enhance program effectiveness.
- Contribute to new business development opportunities requiring expertise in entrepreneurship, agribusiness, or financial access.
Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning
- Oversee timely reporting of program performance metrics and contribute to organizational reporting requirements.
- Support learning initiatives, documentation of best practices, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure program targets are met and learning agendas are implemented.
Budget Management
- Monitor program expenditure and ensure alignment with approved budgets.
- Ensure financial compliance with organizational policies and contractual guidelines.
Required Skills and Experience
- Strong experience supporting or advising SMEs, preferably within agribusiness.
- Bachelor’s Degree + 7 years’ experience or Master’s Degree + 5 years’ experience in business, finance, economics, marketing, entrepreneurship, or a related field.
- Strong analytical and data synthesis skills.
- Experience conducting market assessments and business diagnostics.
- Demonstrated leadership, coaching, and team management abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong computer skills, including advanced MS Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to utilize digital tools, data systems, and emerging technologies (e.g., AI) to enhance work quality.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
- Experience engaging with external stakeholders, including funders, government, and private sector actors.