Technical Advisor- Partnership Management (EPIS)

ABOUT THE COMPANY

GIZ, the German Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, provides services in the field of international technical cooperation worldwide. In Kenya, it has been active since 1964, and up to now implements programs in a wide variety of areas, including economic development, green energy and water, governance, food security, and peace and security. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is GIZ’s main commissioning party. However, GIZ as well works closely with the private sector, fostering successful interaction between development policy and foreign trade.

JOB SUMMARY

A.   BackgroundEntrepreneurship Promotion in Somalia (EPIS) is a project aimed to enhance women's economic participation in Somalia, particularly in the regions of Kismayo and Baidoa. Somalia faces significant challenges in fostering inclusive economic growth due to prolongedconflict, political instability, and entrenched social norms that restrict women’s roles in the economy. Despite these challenges, women play a crucial role in the survival and resilience of communities, particularly in informal sectors. However, their contributions remain largely under-recognized, and they face numerous barriers to accessing finance, business opportunities, and market information.The EPIS project, implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and funded by the Germany Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), seeks to address these barriers by empowering women economically through targeted support for women-led small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), increasing access to financial services, and fostering collaboration betweenthe public and private sectors. The project aligns with both national development goals and international commitments, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly focusing on SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).The core objectives of the EPIS project include improving the business activities and economic performance of women-led SMEs, establishing multi-stakeholder forums to create a supportive environment for women's entrepreneurship, promoting gender-sensitive approaches among service providers to ensure that women’s specific needs are addressed in economic supportservices and shifting societal attitudes by showcasing the contributions of women entrepreneurs and highlighting decision-makers who support gender equality in the economy.The project adopts a multi-faceted, gender-responsive approach that addresses structural barriers to women’s economic participation, supports policy advocacy, and provides direct support to women entrepreneurs. Through capacity-building programs, financial literacy training, and mentorship opportunities, the EPIS project aims to foster an enabling environment where women can thrive in business, contributing to the long-term sustainabledevelopment of the region. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Role OverviewThe GIZ EPIS project seeks an experienced and strategic Technical Advisor in the area of Partnership Management. The role is responsible for managing and strengthening partnerships with implementing and commissioning partners, ensuring the effective and compliant implementation of activities through robust contract and grant management. TheAdvisor will lead on the technical preparation, monitoring, and quality assurance of partner contracts, while supporting partners and project staff in capacity building, reporting, and compliance with GIZ regulations.Key ResponsibilitiesA. Partnership and Contract ManagementLead the technical preparation and accompaniment of contracts, including the drafting of Terms of Reference (ToR), contract documentation, and negotiation processes.Ensure comprehensive monitoring of contractual milestones (reports, deliverables, payments) and adherence to GIZ and donor regulations.Provide continuous technical support and guidance to partners and service providers to ensure contract compliance and quality implementation.Review partner reports and deliverables, providing feedback and ensuring timely approvals and payments. Maintain an updated overview of ongoing partnerships and contract performance, identifying risks and proposing corrective actions.B. Capacity Building and Partner SupportAssess partner capacity gaps related to contract management, reporting, and operational execution. Design and facilitate targeted capacity development sessions and coaching for implementing partners on GIZ rules, procurement, reporting, and financial accountability.Promote a culture of transparency, performance, and continuous learning among partners and project staff.C. Monitoring, Reporting, and Quality AssuranceTrack partner progress against contractual and programmatic indicators.Contribute to project reporting (quarterly, annual) through the consolidation and analysis of partner data and results.Support the Head of Programme in ensuring that lessons learned and best practices from partnerships are systematically documented and shared.D. Risk Management and ComplianceIdentify and mitigate potential financial and operational risks in partner contracts.Ensure full compliance with GIZ’s financial and procurement guidelines, as well as national regulations.Contribute to internal quality assurance processes and audits by ensuring accurate documentation and traceability of contract-related files.D. Coordination and CommunicationServe as a focal point for communication between GIZ and implementing partners, ensuring clear information flow and coordination.Represent the project in coordination and cluster meetings related to partnership management and implementation.Collaborate with the Finance, Procurement, and Technical Teams to ensure coherent contract and partnership management processes.F. Other DutiesPerform additional tasks as requested by the Head of Programme.Required Qualifications and ExperienceEducation:University degree in Business Management, Administration, SocialSciences, or a related field.Additional qualifications in Project Management, Strategic Managementor Procurement and Contract Management are an advantageExperience:Minimum 10 years of professional experience in contract and procurement management, partnership coordination, or operational project support, ideally within GIZ or other international development organizations.Proven expertise in the technical preparation and accompaniment of contracts- including drafting of Terms of Reference (ToR), evaluation, milestone monitoring (deliverables, reports, payments), and compliance checks.Demonstrated ability to build partner capacity in contract management, compliance, and operational processes.Strong understanding of GIZ systems and instruments (contracts, financing agreements, SAP, tendering procedures, etc.) gained through extensive field and country office experience.Skills & Competencies:Strong analytical and conceptual skills, with a structured and detail-oriented approach.Excellent facilitation and capacity-building abilities.Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with proven experience in stakeholder engagement.High level of discretion, integrity, and ability to manage sensitive information.Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.Languages:Excellent command of English (spoken and written).Knowledge of German or Somali is an added advantage.Technical Proficiency:Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and digital tools for M&E and onsite operations.Willingness to travel to Somalia.Duty stationNairobiContract Duration:Initial contract up to31.03.2027Submission of ApplicationVacancy Reference Number: GIZ/SOM/06/10/2025Equal Employment OpportunityAt GIZ Kenya, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. We actively seek individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills to build a stronger, more impactful global team.We provide an environment of respect and psychological safety, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all. Discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, disability, marital status, or any other protected status is not tolerated in any of our workplaces.People With disability are encouraged to applyEthicsGIZ is committed to the safety, dignity, and well-being of all individuals we interact with, including staff, partners, community members, and program participants. We uphold the highest standards in preventing sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. Child abuse or any form of misconduct by or toward team members is strictly prohibited.All staff are expected to behave professionally, respect local laws and customs, and complete mandatory ethics e-learning courses upon hire.Data ConfidentialityIn accordance with GIZ’s data protection policy, all candidate applications are stored in our database for six (6) months and deleted thereafter.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Project management, Stakeholder communication, Business strategy, Partnerships

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree