ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY & RESPONSIBILITIES
The Policy and Advocacy Manager will play a crucial leadership role in advancing Inkomoko's advocacy priorities across the region. This individual will lead high-level policy engagement, build strategic partnerships, and drive cross-country advocacy efforts to influence key stakeholders, governments, and partners. They will oversee team management, track outcomes, and foster a learning-driven approach to ensure that advocacy initiatives are impactful and aligned with Inkomoko's overall goals.
Inkomoko is looking for a dynamic and experienced professional to elevate our advocacy initiatives across multiple countries. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in shaping policy and driving effective advocacy strategies. This role requires a strong commitment to ensuring that advocacy efforts are strategic, evidence-based, and fully aligned with Inkomoko's mission of supporting entrepreneurship and inclusive economic development.
Strategic leadership
Support the Head of Advocacy in the development and execution of our regional advocacy strategy aligned with Inkomoko's mission and goals.
Act as a key advisor to the Head of advocacy, and senior leadership on policy and advocacy matters, providing high-level analysis of regional political and economic trends.
Represent Inkomoko at regional and international forums, building the organization's profile as a thought leader in entrepreneurship and economic inclusion advocacy.
Policy engagement and stakeholder management
Build and maintain relationships with senior policymakers, government officials, donors, and regional bodies to advance Inkomoko's advocacy objectives.
Identify and pursue high-impact opportunities to engage with policy dialogues and influence regulatory frameworks affecting entrepreneurship.
Serve as the primary point of contact for advocacy-related partnerships and coalitions, fostering collaboration with key stakeholders.
Cross-country coordination
Support the head of advocacy to oversee and align advocacy activities across Inkomoko's countries of operation (Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Chad).
Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to country-level advocacy leads, ensuring cohesive and synergistic efforts.
Facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration across countries to promote unified messaging and best practices.
Evidence-based advocacy
Collaborate with the Head of Advocacy and MEL team to ensure data-driven advocacy strategies, integrating research and impact metrics into policy recommendations.
Commission and oversee the production of high-quality policy briefs, white papers, and reports to support advocacy efforts.
Ensure robust systems are in place to track and report on advocacy outcomes, adapting strategies based on evidence and learning
Capacity building and team leadership
Lead and inspire a regional advocacy team, fostering professional growth and strengthening internal capacity for impactful advocacy.
Develop and deliver training programs to build advocacy knowledge and skills across departments and country offices.
Champion a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within advocacy teams.
Operational excellence
Support the Head of Advocacy to develop and manage the regional advocacy budget and Balance Score Card, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to maximize impact.
Establish and maintain systems for documentation, knowledge management, and reporting on advocacy initiatives.
Produce regular, high-level advocacy reports for senior leadership, donors, and external stakeholders, highlighting key achievements and strategic recommendations.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Master's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, Humanitarian Affairs, or a related field.
At least 8 years of progressive experience in policy advocacy, with a focus on regional or multi-country initiatives.
Proven track record of engaging with senior government officials, donors, and international organizations to influence policy.
Extensive knowledge of regional political, economic, and social dynamics, particularly in East Africa.
Experience in managing teams and leading cross-functional, multi-country projects.
Skills & competencies
Exceptional leadership and strategic thinking abilities.
Advanced communication and negotiation skills, with a talent for building relationships and influencing high-level stakeholders.
Strong research and analytical capabilities, with the ability to translate data into actionable policy recommendations.
Fluency in English; proficiency in French and/or Arabic is highly desirable.
Key attributes
Visionary leader with a passion for driving systemic change.
Results-driven, with a commitment to excellence and accountability.
Highly collaborative, with the ability to inspire and mobilize diverse teams.
Strong alignment with Inkomoko's values and mission.
WHAT YOU'LL GET
This role is inside a high-growth, mission-driven social enterprise. By joining, you'll access:
Competitive salary, and potential Performance-based bonus
Incredible company culture, with opportunities for learning and growth
Diverse colleagues across the region, and policies that demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion
Ability to make a significant social impact to your community
Health insurance for self and family
Staff savings and provident fund, negotiated bank rates for long-term employees
Generous annual leave, parental leave, and sabbatical options.
Application deadline is on the 30th January, 2025.