Acumen Academy is seeking a Funding to Build Manager for its Africa operations to lead the strategic design and operational execution of grant funding programs. This role is responsible for refining strategic priorities in alignment with Green RISE Africa and Acumen Academy objectives, with a specific focus on green job creation for young women and youth. The manager will oversee the entire program lifecycle, from design and outreach to selection, due diligence, grant execution, and impact monitoring.
Key Responsibilities
Program Strategy & Design
Refine and define strategic priorities for the Funding to Build initiative, focusing on green job creation.
Design the overall program structure, annual calendar, and end-to-end processes for each cycle.
Develop and oversee pipeline-building, outreach, and communications strategies.
Lead the design and iteration of the program application forms.
Application, Selection & Grant Execution
Lead the end-to-end application and selection process, ensuring an equitable experience for all applicants.
Oversee information sessions, evaluation frameworks, and selection panels, including panelist management.
Synthesize assessments and provide decision-ready recommendations for awardees.
Lead due diligence for selected entrepreneurs, coordinating legal, financial, and compliance reviews.
Oversee grant agreement execution and ensure readiness for disbursement in line with internal standards.
Post-Disbursement & Impact Management
Lead structured onboarding for funded entrepreneurs.
Track financial, operational, and impact KPIs across the portfolio.
Monitor reporting compliance at key milestones.
Produce consolidated impact and learning reports for stakeholders.
Generate insights and recommendations to strengthen future funding cycles.
Qualifications & Skills
Minimum of 8 years of experience in program/grants management, impact investing, enterprise support, or venture building.
Demonstrated experience managing end-to-end funding or selection processes.
Strong understanding of early-stage entrepreneurship, ideally within climate or sustainability sectors.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Strong analytical and reporting skills with experience translating data into actionable insights.
Proven people management experience.
High attention to detail, integrity, and comfort operating within governance frameworks.
Educational Background: BA/BSc/HND qualification.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should submit their application through the Acumen Greenhouse portal. You can access the application link here: https://www.myjobmag.co.ke/apply-now/1165281. Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline on March 6, 2026.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified? Go to the Acumen Greenhouse application portal at https://www.myjobmag.co.ke/apply-now/1165281 to submit your application. Ensure you provide your CV and cover letter as part of the application process before the deadline on March 6, 2026.
