The Advocacy Manager is a strategic role focused on protecting and advancing the interests of the Cooperative Movement and SACCOs in Kenya. The key pillars of this role include protecting existing gains, empowering stakeholders through information and capacity building, and advancing the business interests of represented SACCOs.
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 Management and the Board.
Coordination and Monitoring
Develop and implement advocacy strategies and annual work plans.
Coordinate advocacy activities across regions and with member SACCOs.
Track progress and impact of advocacy initiatives and prepare periodic reports for management.
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.
Qualifications and Experience
A degree in Law and must be an advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
5-10 years of experience in public policy, law, or financial sector advocacy.
Deep familiarity with the Kenyan legislative process is mandatory.
At least three (3) years in a senior management position.
Experience working in the cooperative sector or large membership organizations is an added advantage.
Key Competencies and Skills
Strong knowledge of Kenyan Cooperative laws and the legislative process.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
Strategic thinker with strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Demonstrated leadership, managerial, and supervisory skills.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
