SHOFCO is seeking a strategic Project Director to play a crucial role which involves overseeing a comprehensive program aimed at supporting more than 100,000 children in vulnerable communities to overcome barriers to education and improve quality, address gender-based violence (GBV) and influence norms, and improve sanitation and access to safe water. The Project Director will be responsible for the strategic direction, implementation, and management of the program, ensuring alignment with SHOFCO’s mission and delivery against project milestones and goals. The ideal candidate has to have a proven track record of leading large-scale, impactful programs with rigorous measurement and evaluation, has significant education and/or gender sector experience in Kenya, including successful partnership with government, and is personally aligned with SHOFCO’s value of staying “grassroots” and always listening to and empowering the community.

Key Responsibilities and Job Dimensions

2.1 Strategy Leadership and Project Oversight:

• Develop and execute a plan for delivery of the program in alignment with SHOFCO’s overall mission and objectives.
• Oversee the implementation of the program across multiple counties, ensuring that activities are delivered on time, within budget, and achieve desired impacts.
• Work closely with SHOFCO’s c-team, key department heads for the program, and external partners to ensure seamless integration and collaboration across all components of the program.

2.2 Team Management and Development:

• Lead, mentor, and build the capacity of a diverse team of professionals, ensuring high levels of motivation, commitment, and performance.
• Foster a collaborative and positive work environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and excellence.

2.3 Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy:

• Represent SHOFCO in various forums, including meetings with government officials, donors, and partners, to advocate for the program’s objectives and secure necessary support and resources.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including community leaders in SUN (SHOFCO’s national network), partner organizations, and government agencies, to enhance program impact and sustainability.

2.4 Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning:

• In partnership with SHOFCO’s Impact team, drive performance against a robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework to track program progress, assess effectiveness, and inform ongoing improvements.
• Ensure that lessons learned are captured, shared, and integrated into program planning and execution.

Academic Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in program management, with experience in the fields of education, GBV, child protection, or WASH
• Bachelors Degree in any Development Studies or any other related studies
• Master’s degree in any related studies or comparable professional experience

Other requirements (unique/job specific)

• Proven track record of successfully leading and scaling ambitious programs.
• Strong strategic thinking, leadership, and management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience using data and insights to drive program improvements.
• Familiarity with the contexts of urban slums and rural agricultural communities.
• Strong commitment to SHOFCO’s mission and values
• Strong commitment to SHOFCO’s mission and values.