Africa Forward Programme Manager

Position description

Launched at the World Economic Forum in January 2020, Catalyst 2030 is a global community of social entrepreneurs, funders and other social change innovators who believe collaborative action and bold, new strategies are needed to address the crises of our time.

Joining forces with communities, governments, businesses, funders and others, Catalyst 2030 members are working toward changing systems at all levels. Cumulatively, members have already impacted the lives of millions, often with limited resources. Together, we envision the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for all.

What is Africa Forward?

Africa Forward is a groundbreaking initiative co-created by members of the African Chapters of Catalyst 2030.

Africa Forward’s objective is to support the next cohort of African social entrepreneurs and innovators as they collaborate on innovative pathways and solutions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the continent. Africa Forward’s vision is to create a recognized and self-sustaining social innovation sector that drives job creation and delivers against Africa’s development agenda.

Scope of the work

Reports to: Director of Programmes

Governance Responsibilities:

• Ensure program activities align with Africa Forward’s mission, goals, and governance standards.
• Provide regular updates on program progress, compliance, and reporting standards to the senior leadership team.

Key responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Managing and Coordinating:
   • Day-to-day management and coordination of Africa Forward (AF) related activities.
   • Act as the liaison for AF-related matters with the wider Catalyst 2030 secretariat team, ensuring smooth communication and operations.
2. Event Management:
   • Support in conceptualising, planning, and facilitating conferences, events, and ancillary meetings.
   • Manage in-person events, convenings, and AF partner/support events to ensure smooth execution.
3. Communication:
   • Collaborate with Catalyst 2030 communications and chapter teams to regularly engage with AF members.
   • Coordinate Africa Forward’s monthly events for members and oversee regular communication touchpoints, such as newsletters, website updates, and social media, ensuring consistent interaction.
   • Work on spotlighting AF members through WhatsApp communications and other platforms.
4. External Affairs:
   • Serve as the primary point of contact for communication with partners, vendors, and stakeholders around program-related activities.
   • Ensure effective program delivery by maintaining strong external relations.
5. Program Planning and Development:
   • Collaborate with Chapter members, the Catalyst 2030 secretariat, and other team members to develop AF program goals, objectives, and strategies.
   • Assist in the creation of program budgets, timelines, and work plans.
6. Program Implementation:
   • Oversee the execution of program activities according to established implementation plans and timelines.
   • Monitor progress, address potential issues, and develop solutions to ensure program goals are met.
7. Data Management:
   • Develop and maintain AF program-related databases, records, and documentation.
   • Prepare regular reports and presentations to update stakeholders on program progress and outcomes.
8. Measurement, Evaluation, and Quality Assurance:
   • Collaborate with Catalyst 2030’s team and external consultants to set up an impact measurement framework.
   • Assist in conducting program evaluations to assess effectiveness and recommend improvements.
   • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and procedures.
9. Budget and Resource Management:
   • Monitor program budgets, expenditures, and resources.
   • Assist in financial planning, tracking expenses, and resource allocation.
   • Support the AF Director with identified funding opportunities, and assist in grant proposal writing and fundraising efforts.
10. Stakeholder Engagement:
    • Build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders, including Catalyst 2030 co-founders (Ashoka, WEF, etc.), community partners, government agencies, donors, and volunteers.
    • Collaborate with external organisations to leverage funding, resources, and support program objectives.
11. Any other ad hoc tasks as requested and a being willing to be flexible when required

Key Outcomes:

• Effective conceptualisation, management and smooth execution of Africa Forward programs across the Africa Forward Blueprint to action areas.
• Delivery of 5+ high-impact events annually, ensuring stakeholder satisfaction and engagement.
• Strong member and stakeholder engagement through regular communications and relationship-building.
• A robust impact measurement framework ensuring program success, accountability, and transparency.

Qualifications and experience

• 7-10 years of experience in program management and coordination.
• Demonstrated experience in event planning, management and administration with the ability to organise and oversee high-impact events preferably in the non-profit or social innovation and entrepreneurship sector.
• Impeccable administrative and organisational skills, with experience managing budgets, contracts, and program logistics.
• Proven experience with impact measurement and reporting.
• Professional qualifications in Project Management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) are highly desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to anticipate challenges and develop practical solutions.
• An active interest in global issues and challenges, their complexity and nuances
• Ability to work in a multicultural, global environment and demonstrate cultural sensitivity
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proven organisational skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and across time zones, and a willingness to learn from experience
• Ability to manage time effectively and to adapt to changing environments
• Desire to work collaboratively, with a positive attitude and ability to rise to challenges
• Fluency in English and another language (Spanish, French, Portuguese or Arabic), other languages would be an asset e.g. Russian, Chinese etc. a plus
• Hands-on attitude, flexibility and ability to adapt to new tasks and a willingness to help out when required

Application instructions

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