Programs Lead
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Job summary
This role is ideal for a development professional who combines strategic thinking with practical implementation experience, and who is passionate about education, community health, and sustainable livelihoods in rural Kenya.
Min Qualification:
Bachelors
Experience Level:
Mid level
Experience Length:
3 years
Language Requirement:
English
Working Hours:
Full Time - 9 to 5
Applicant Location:
Kenya
Job descriptions & requirements
Full-Time | Kisii, Kenya | Reports to Executive Director
Organization
GRACE Initiative
Location
Kisii, Kenya
Reports To
Executive Director
Employment Type
Full-Time
Application Deadline
21st April 2026
ABOUT GRACE INITIATIVE
GRACE Initiative is a mission-driven organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children and communities in Kenya. Through integrated programs in Education, School Health & Nutrition, and Sustainable Agriculture, GRACE delivers innovative, scalable solutions that empower students from primary through senior school to achieve their full potential.
Working closely with local and international partners, GRACE operates in Kisii County with a growing footprint across multiple thematic areas, including STEM & Robotics, reading and global exchange programs, entrepreneurship, school feeding, and sustainable farming initiatives. GRACE is committed to building a future where every child and community can thrive.
POSITION OVERVIEW
GRACE Initiative is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and mission-aligned Programs Lead to provide hands-on leadership and coordination of its core programs. This is a senior individual contributor and team leadership role responsible for the quality, coherence, and impact of GRACE's programmatic work across all thematic areas.
The Programs Lead will work closely with the Executive Director to translate GRACE's strategic vision into effective program delivery on the ground, while managing partnerships, donor relationships, and a committed team of program staff.
This role is ideal for a development professional who combines strategic thinking with practical implementation experience, and who is passionate about education, community health, and sustainable livelihoods in rural Kenya.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Program Leadership & Coordination
Lead the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of GRACE's integrated programs across Education, School Health & Nutrition, and Sustainable Agriculture
Ensure coherence and integration across all program areas for maximum community impact
Develop annual workplans, activity schedules, and program budgets in collaboration with the Executive Director
Monitor program activities against set targets and course-correct where necessary
2. Education Program Oversight
Oversee operations of GRACE's primary and junior secondary school, ensuring quality teaching and learning outcomes
Strengthen supplemental learning initiatives including STEM & Robotics, reading and global exchange programs, and entrepreneurship and innovation activities
Ensure curriculum alignment with national educational standards and global best practices
Liaise with school leadership, teachers, and the Ministry of Education as required
3. Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL)
Design and implement a robust MEL framework spanning all program areas
Track program outcomes, beneficiary reach, and impact metrics consistently
Prepare timely, high-quality program reports for internal leadership and external stakeholders including donors
Apply learning from data to strengthen program design and delivery
4. Donor Relations & Business Development
Manage relationships with international donors, academic partners, and implementing organizations
Support the development of funding proposals, concept notes, and grant applications
Ensure full compliance with donor requirements, reporting standards, and grant management protocols
Actively identify new funding opportunities aligned with GRACE's strategic priorities
5. Team Leadership & Capacity Building
Lead, supervise, and mentor program staff across all thematic areas
Build a high-performing, accountable, and mission-driven program team
Conduct regular team reviews, provide constructive feedback, and support staff development
Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the programs team
6. Stakeholder & Community Engagement
Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, local communities, government departments, and partner organizations
Represent GRACE Initiative in relevant forums, networks, and county-level coordination meetings
Ensure programs remain responsive to community needs, culturally appropriate, and locally owned
Create opportunities for media coverage, learning dissemination, and GRACE's visibility in the sector
7. Financial & Operational Oversight
Oversee program budgets and ensure responsible, compliant expenditure across all thematic areas
Collaborate with the finance and operations team to ensure efficient and timely program delivery
Review and approve program-related expenditures within agreed authorization levels
Provide monthly financial and operational updates to the Executive Director
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Education
Bachelor's degree in Education, Development Studies, Public Health, Agriculture, or a related field required
Experience
Minimum 3–6 years of progressive experience in the same role within an NGO, foundation, or development organization
Demonstrated experience managing multi-sector programs, with preference for candidates with exposure to education, health, or agriculture
Proven track record working with donor-funded programs and meeting grant reporting requirements
Experience working with or within school systems (primary to senior school level) is highly desirable
Previous supervisory or team leadership experience is required
Skills & Competencies
Strong program design, planning, and implementation skills
Solid experience with monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Swahili proficiency is an advantage
Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently with minimal supervision
Financial literacy and experience overseeing program budgets
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with diverse stakeholders
High level of integrity, accountability, and commitment to GRACE's mission and values
Added Advantage
Experience in rural or underserved community settings in Kenya
Familiarity with STEM or robotics education programs
Background in school feeding, nutrition, or health programs
Knowledge of sustainable agriculture practices in Kenya
HOW TO APPLY
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit the following documents in a single PDF:
A cover letter (maximum 1 page) addressed to the Executive Director, clearly stating why you are the right fit for this role
An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV), maximum 3 pages.
Contact details for three professional referees (referees will only be contacted with your prior consent)
Send applications to: hr@graceinitiative.co.ke
Subject line: Programs Lead Application [Your Full Name]
Application Deadline: 21st April 2026
NB: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.
GRACE Initiative is an equal opportunity employer.
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