Career Opportunities at Power Shift Africa (PSA)

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Senior Liaison Officer

About the Role 

Power Shift Africa with support from partners is implementing a project on Strategic communications and advocacy on Climate and Adaptation in Kenya. The investment aims to develop and strengthen influential voices in Kenya and Africa on a range of critical issues, including agriculture and climate adaptation and the reform of MDBs.  

Power Shift Africa is seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Liaison Officer to manage the high-impact project in collaboration with the Office of the Climate Envoy. This role will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the project, serving as a high-level contact and liaison with leaders and officials in Kenya and across Africa. 

Key Responsibilities  

Project Management 

• Oversee the day-to-day management of the project, including activities, sub-contracts, equipment, and technical support. 
• Develop and implement detailed project plans in collaboration with the Climate Envoy’s office, Power Shift Africa, and government partners in Kenya and Africa, ensuring smooth project execution. 

High-Level Liaison 

• Act as the primary contact between Power Shift Africa (PSA) and the Office of the Climate Envoy, fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, including high-level leaders and influential voices in Kenya and across Africa. 

Technical Support 

• Provide expert technical support and guidance on climate adaptation strategies, policy development, and implementation to ensure project success and sustainability. 
• Support efforts to institutionalize the Africa Climate Summit (ACS) and collaborate with key stakeholders, including the African Union Commission, on the Nairobi Declaration. 
• Engage in relevant international and regional conferences, such as the AU Summit, AMCEN, UNGA, and G20, preparing briefs and supporting effective participation. 

 Influence and Advocacy 

• Enhance and cultivate champions in Kenya and other African countries to engage in advocacy on climate adaptation, agricultural innovations, climate finance, and reform of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs). 

Stakeholder Engagement 

• Build and sustain partnerships with government officials, civil society organizations, and international partners to amplify the voices of African leaders. 
• Facilitate and support collaborative efforts to influence agendas at regional and international levels, including hosting convenings of African climate think tanks on adaptation, financial reforms, agriculture, and green industrialization. 

Strategic Support 

• Provide strategic support in strategy, communications, and advocacy, including developing compelling narratives, drafting high-level communications, and coordinating advocacy efforts. 

Monitoring and Evaluation 

• Establish mechanisms to track project progress and impact, and prepare regular reports on project achievements, challenges, and lessons learned to ensure transparency and accountability. 

Qualifications and desired skills: 

• Master’s degree in International Relations, Environmental Science, Climate Change, Public Policy, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in project management, strategic communications, or advocacy, preferably within the climate or development sector. 
• Proven track record of managing high-profile projects and working with senior government officials and influential leaders. 
• Experience working with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government agencies, international organizations, the private sector, civil society, and local communities. 
• Thorough understanding of the climate discourse in Kenya and Africa, including political, socio-economic, and environmental priorities and opportunities. 
• Strong diplomatic and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders. 
• Exceptional writing and communication skills, with experience producing high-quality policy briefs, reports, and advocacy materials. 
• Deep understanding of the political and socio-economic landscape in Kenya and Africa, with a focus on climate and agricultural issues. 
• Ability to convene in-person meetings and virtual engagements (webinars) with diverse stakeholders within the climate movement. 

Additional Information about the role 

The Senior Liaison officer will be based at Power Shift Africa with close working relationship with office of the Climate Envoy in Kenya. The post is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. This role will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, and the successful candidate must be eligible to work in Kenya.  

Senior Strategic Communications and Advocacy Advisor

About the Role 

Kenya’s Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change plays a critical role in enhancing Kenya and Africa’s leadership in delivering climate adaptation policies, building compelling narratives on climate adaptation, particularly for the agriculture sector, and unlocking investments for climate adaptation in Kenya and Africa. To complement and advance this agenda, PSA, with support from strategic partners, seeks to provide technical support to the office of Special Climate Envoy in Kenya.  

Power Shift Africa is looking for a Senior Strategic Communications and Advocacy Advisor to lead the development and execution of high-level communication strategies and diplomatic efforts in support of the Office of the Climate Envoy for Kenya. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for producing top-tier communication materials, including talking points, opinion pieces, and press statements, to effectively convey the work and impact of the Office. Serving as the primary liaison between the Office of the Climate Envoy and the media, the Senior Advisor will manage media relations, pitch stories to journalists, secure interviews, and handle media inquiries on behalf of the Envoy. The goal is to position communications as a crucial component in shaping the long-term strategy and impact of the Office’s climate initiatives. 

The Senior Advisor will also oversee the creation, packaging, and dissemination of multimedia content to advance a compelling climate narrative for Kenya and Africa. This will involve driving and sustaining partnerships and collaborations with like-minded institutions to further the goals of the Nairobi Declaration. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Communications Planning and Execution 

• Design and implement the overarching strategic communications plan for the Office of the Climate Envoy. 
• Lead the development of the Office’s brand, storytelling, and narrative building across diverse media platforms. 
• Increase the visibility of the Office of the Climate Envoy and its partners through targeted communications and media support. 

Content Development and Quality Control 

• Develop and disseminate a range of communications materials, including blog posts, social media content, high-level opinion pieces, and videos, tailored for diverse audiences and channels. 
• Draft talking points for the Climate Envoy’s key speaking engagements, including summits and briefings. 
• Ensure all communication products meet quality standards by applying appropriate formats and branding. 

Media Relations and Audience Engagement 

• Maintain and nurture active relationships with climate journalists, editors, and influencers, regularly briefing them on the work of the Climate Envoy. 
• Map out African audiences, monitor media coverage, and provide metrics for reporting and future planning. 
• Develop stories and compelling narratives to shape public perceptions of climate change and the work of the Office. 

Event Moderation and Partnership Building 

• Moderate events, high-level panels, and forums attended by the Climate Envoy. 
• Build and expand collaborations between the Office and other institutions such as civil society, academia, and development partners through strategic networking. 
• Oversee and manage all communication projects, including digital campaigns, led by the Office of the Climate Envoy. 

Team Leadership and Mentorship 

• Mentor and support internal and external communications staff, fostering collaboration with experts from partner organizations at high-level events. 
• Conduct audience perception analyses to refine and enhance the Office’s communications strategy. 

Desired Skills and Experience  

• Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field. 
• Minimum 10 years of experience as a senior editor or senior communications advisor in a dynamic environment. 
• Prior experience designing and implementing strategic communications for complex climate issues. 
• Thorough understanding of the climate discourse in Kenya and Africa, including regional priorities and opportunities. 
• Proven ability to manage high-level and complex relationships, including with partners to drive climate action. 
• Proficiency in climate communications, campaign management, and movement building. 
• Strong editorial skills with experience in creating compelling materials such as press releases, blogs, opinion pieces, and impactful speeches. 
• Cross-cultural competency with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams across Africa. 
• Experience in convening in-person meetings and virtual engagements (e.g., webinars) with various stakeholders. 
• Advanced knowledge of communication and editing tools, including Mailchimp, InDesign, and Adobe Premiere. 
• Sophisticated social media skills with a deep understanding of the digital landscape.  
• Prior work in the not-for-profit space is especially desirable   

Language Competence  

Fluency in spoken and written English is required; Proficiency in French will be an advantage 

Additional Information about the role 

• The Senior Strategic Communications and Advocacy Advisor will be embedded within the office of Kenya’s Climate Envoy for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The Advisor will report directly to Kenya’s Climate Envoy and work closely with relevant ministries and agencies and regional institutions and stakeholders. 
• Candidates should have flexibility to travel globally and accompany the Climate Envoy during key missions. 
• This role will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, and the successful candidate must be eligible to work in Kenya. While preference will be given to Kenyan applicants, we are open to considering candidates from other African countries. PSA will, however, not facilitate work visas for such candidates. 

Finance Officer

Role Overview 

The Finance Officer will provide expert financial oversight and advice for donor-funded or restricted projects, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of all financial transactions. This role involves managing all financial aspects of projects, from budget preparation to project closure, to ensure compliance and effective financial management. The role will primarily focus on supporting the Strategic communications and advocacy on Climate and Adaptation in Kenya  project with additional projects as assigned by Power Shift Africa (PSA) Director. 

Key Responsibilities 

Transaction Processing and Quality Assurance 

• Enter all project-related transactions into the finance system promptly. 
• Prepare and review monthly transaction listings for completeness and accuracy, making necessary adjustments. 
• Reconcile project transaction accounts monthly. 
• Ensure all transactions are supported by adequate documentation, approved, and properly filed. 
• Clear all reversing transactions in a timely manner. 
• Meet Power Shift Africa deadlines and ensure timely accruals, with periodic reviews and settlements before project closure. 

Reporting and Analysis 

• Produce monthly reports as required by the Project Manager or Director, ensuring accuracy and adherence to donor requirements. 
• Attend oversight group meetings to discuss financial performance and raise any concerns or risks. 
• Provide financial analysis to support project decision-making. 
• Prepare and consolidate donor reports and internal management reports, ensuring adherence to timelines and documentation requirements. 
• Produce explanatory narratives for financial reports as needed. 
• Design, calculate, and record key performance indicators (KPIs) for projects, providing explanations for variances. 
• Respond to donor inquiries regarding financial matters. 

Financial Guidance and Management 

• Offer technical advice and guidance on project financial management to project managers and PSA teams. 
• Forecast cash flow requirements and collaborate with the Finance team to manage project cash effectively. 
• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including processing invoices and expenditures, in collaboration with the Finance team. 
• Coordinate with internal and external auditors to manage audits, address requirements, and implement audit recommendations. 
• Provide quarterly updates on financial progress against the budget, with frequency adjusted as deemed appropriate by the line manager. 

Qualifications, Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related business field from a recognized university in Kenya. 
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) registered with ICPA-K and in good standing. 
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in finance and accounting, with preference for experience in an NGO setting or as a project accountant/finance officer. 
• Demonstrable experience in project finance management, donor reporting, and management reporting within an NGO environment. 
• Experience in balance sheet reconciliations and monthly financial checks; and the production of value-added analysis leading to improved decision-making. 
• Working knowledge of the latest Sage versions and associated reporting tools. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects effectively without loss of quality. 
• Strong understanding and practical application of the regulatory environment for NGOs. 
• Team player with an ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with non-finance staff. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and related tools. 

Additional information about the role 

• The Finance officer will be based at Power Shift Africa offices in Nairobi and report to Director, Power Shift Africa. The post is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.   

Senior Adaptation Advisor

About the role 

Kenya’s Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change plays a critical role in enhancing Kenya and Africa’s leadership in delivering climate adaptation policies, building compelling narratives on climate adaptation, particularly for the agriculture sector, and unlocking finance for climate adaptation in Kenya and Africa.  

To complement and advance this agenda, PSA, with support from strategic partners, seeks to provide technical support by recruiting a highly qualified Senior Adaptation Advisor. The main objective of the Advisor role is to support Kenya’s Climate Envoy by providing expert guidance and strategic advice on climate adaptation.  

The Senior Adaptation Advisor will play a pivotal role in supporting the Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change in advancing climate adaptation policies. This position involves shaping compelling narratives around climate adaptation and agriculture, enhancing Kenya’s adaptation portfolio, and fostering stakeholder coordination and engagement. The Advisor will also be instrumental in translating complex climate science into accessible reports, showcasing Kenya’s climate innovations and initiatives, and crafting evidence-based policy briefs and recommendations to drive and expedite climate action.  

Key Responsibilities: 

Strategic Policy Advisory 

• Provide high-level strategic advice on climate adaptation policies to the Special Envoy for Climate Change and senior officials to support engagements at various levels. 
• Develop a comprehensive adaptation, agriculture, and food systems agenda for the Office of the President, aligning with national priorities, international best practices, and Africa’s climate resilience objectives. 
• Craft detailed policy recommendations and strategies to tackle climate adaptation challenges. 
• Draft technical statements, briefing notes, and position papers to advance Kenya’s and Africa’s strategic interests in global forums, particularly within the UNFCCC. 
• Support Kenya’s participation and influence in key regional and international platforms, including AMCEN, AU Summits, UNGA, G7/G20 processes, and the UNFCCC’s Conference of Parties. 

Research and Analysis 

• Conduct comprehensive research and technical analysis on climate adaptation. 
• Simplify complex climate science data and reports for varied audiences, ensuring accessibility and clarity. 
• Develop evidence-based policy briefs and recommendations to influence decision-making and expedite climate action. 

Stakeholders Engagement 

• Engage and organize convenings with key stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners, to garner support for climate adaptation initiatives. 
• Foster strategic collaborations and partnerships to advance climate adaptation goals. 
• Represent the Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change at high-level forums and meetings. 

Communications 

• Develop and promote compelling narratives on climate adaptation and agriculture, highlighting Kenya’s and Africa’s climate innovations and initiatives. 
• Collaborate with communications teams to create and disseminate materials, including technical statements, briefing notes, and reports. 
• Draft speeches and talking points to bolster Kenya’s and Africa’s advocacy efforts in negotiations, conferences, and workshops, positioning Kenya as a leader in climate adaptation, particularly in agriculture and food systems. 

Programme Management and fundraising  

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with project partners and donors. 
• Contribute to the development of fundraising proposals for adaptation and resilience programs and support their implementation. 
• Work closely with relevant ministries and departments to establish and enhance national adaptation monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems (MEL) in Kenya.  

Qualifications: 

• Master’s degree in environmental science, Agriculture, Climate Change, Economics or a related field 
• At least 10 years of experience in climate change, with a climate adaptation and resilience focus, and preferably with a focus on regional/global negotiation processes.  
• Proven track record of developing and implementing adaptation strategies. 
• relevant experience in engagement, with a climate adaptation and resilience focus, and preferably with a focus on regional/global negotiation processes.  
• Strong knowledge of climate policy with a track record of working with stakeholders around climate policy development in Africa.  
• Demonstrated knowledge of global policies, strategies, and frameworks in the field of climate change and finance including the Paris Agreement, and other multilateral environmental treaties that Kenya has ratified. 
• Strong track record and capability of mobilizing climate finance for climate adaptation programming from various sources including the existing climate financing mechanisms. 
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills. 
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, international organizations, the private sector, civil society, and local communities. 

Additional Information about the role 

• The Senior Adaptation Advisor will be embedded within the office of Kenya’s Climate Envoy for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The Advisor will report directly to Kenya’s Climate Envoy and work closely with relevant ministries and agencies and regional institutions and stakeholders. 
• This role will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, and the successful candidate must be eligible to work in Kenya. While preference will be given to Kenyan applicants, we are open to considering candidates from other African countries. PSA will, however, not facilitate work visas for such candidates. 

Administrator/Office Assistant

About the Role:

Kenya’s Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change plays a critical role in enhancing Kenya and Africa’s leadership in delivering climate adaptation policies, building compelling narratives on climate adaptation particularly for the agriculture sector, and unlocking investments for climate adaptation in Kenya and Africa. PSA, with support from strategic partners, seeks to provide technical support to the Office of Kenya’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, by recruiting an Administrator/office assistant role.

The Administrator/Office Assistant plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and smooth operation of the Office of the Climate Envoy. The successful candidate will manage a diverse range of administrative and support tasks to maintain an organized, productive, and collaborative work environment. Key responsibilities include handling communications, coordinating events, and managing stakeholder interactions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Climate Envoy and their team.
• Manage the office’s daily operations, including scheduling meetings, maintaining calendars, and coordinating travel arrangements.
• Handle incoming communications, including emails and phone calls, ensuring timely responses.
• Prepare, review, and distribute various documents, reports, and presentations.
• Maintain organized records and filing systems, both electronic and paper.
• Work with the team and assist in planning and executing events, meetings, and conferences.
• Coordinate logistics for internal and external meetings, including venue setup and other arrangements.
• Support project management activities, ensuring deadlines are met and tasks are completed.
• Manage office supplies and inventory, ensuring the office is well-stocked and equipment is functioning properly.
• Act as a point of contact between the office and external partners, stakeholders, and service providers.
• Perform other administrative duties as required to support the effective operation of the office.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an administrative or office management role.
• Excellent organizational skills with strong multitasking abilities and keen attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other office management software.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a proactive and positive attitude.
• Familiarity with climate change and environmental issues is desirable, though not required.

Additional Information about the role

• The Administrator/Office Assistant will be embedded within the office of Kenya’s Climate Envoy for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.
• This role will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, and the successful candidate must be eligible to work in Kenya. While preference will be given to Kenyan applicants, we are open to considering candidates from other African countries. PSA will, however, not facilitate work visas for such candidates.

Social Media Officer

About the Role

Kenya’s Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change plays a critical role in enhancing Kenya and Africa’s leadership in delivering climate adaptation policies, building compelling narratives on climate adaptation, particularly for the agriculture sector, and unlocking investments for climate adaptation in Kenya and Africa. To complement and advance this agenda, PSA, with support from strategic partners, seeks to provide technical support to the Office of Kenya’s Special Envoy for Climate Change

It’s against this backdrop that we are recruiting an experienced, passionate, and creative Social Media Officer. The officer will work closely with the Senior Strategic Communications Advisor to support the development and the implementation of a strategic communication and advocacy plans to elevate Kenya and Africa’s adaptation narrative to drive climate ambition, particularly focusing on sustainable agricultural practices and resilience-building initiatives.

The role is pivotal in designing, managing, and implementing communication and advocacy strategies to enhance advocacy efforts on adaptation priorities for Kenya and Africa within the Office of the Special Envoy. This position will focus on deploying innovative digital engagement strategies, creating compelling digital content, and staying abreast of current digital trends. The role also involves forging strategic partnerships with African journalists and international media to amplify the Office’s message and impact.

Key Responsibilities:  

Content Production and Quality Assurance 

• Design, develop, package, and disseminate high-quality online and published materials, including reports, publications, newsletters, and updates, to effectively convey the adaptation narrative for Kenya and Africa. 
• Ensure all materials, including pictures and videos, maintain high standards of simplicity, consistency, accuracy, and relevance. 

Social Media and Digital Platform Management  

• Manage and update digital platforms, including the website and social media channels (Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.), ensuring regular and timely content updates and scheduling posts strategically.  
• Monitor and analyze current digital trends, social media best practices, and emerging technologies to enhance digital engagement. 

Exposure, Visibility, and Stakeholder Engagement:  

• Strengthen and enhance the visibility and exposure of adaptation workstreams through targeted strategies, increasing social media followers, and reaching key audiences.  
• Enhance stakeholder engagement by disseminating relevant information and monitoring news outlets to amplify Africa’s position on climate adaptation at national, regional, continental, and international levels. 

Advocacy and Influence:  

• Influence key stakeholders, including media, policymakers, NGOs, and governments, on adaptation priorities for Kenya and Africa through strategic forums and events. 

Performance Analysis and Collaboration:  

• Analyze the performance and impact of communications initiatives by monitoring content performance, engagement metrics, and community growth to guide future strategies and planning.  
• Work collaboratively with the PSA’s Media and Communication Department to create synergies and linkages around strategic communication and advocacy on adaptation priorities for Africa 

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Management, Information Technology, Communications, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in social media and communications work, including advocacy.
• Proven track record in managing high-profile media platforms and producing media content to build and maintain online engagement.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, multicultural environment with government and international organizations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex technical information for non-expert audiences.
• Proficiency in photo and video production and editing, with a strong understanding of visual design and layout development for information materials.
• Demonstrated knowledge of online dissemination principles, including social media mechanisms and website management.
• Strong planning skills, creativity, proactivity, and the ability to meet established deadlines.

Additional Information about the role

• The Social Media Officer will be embedded within the office of Kenya’s Climate Envoy for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The officer will report directly to Senior Strategic Communications Advisor at the office of the Climate Envoy.
• This role will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, and the successful candidate must be eligible to work in Kenya. While preference will be given to Kenyan applicants, we are open to considering candidates from other African countries. PSA will, however, not facilitate work visas for such candidates.

Method of Application

We encourage qualified candidates to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your interest, qualifications and vision for the position. Applications should be submitted to careers@powershiftafrica.org by 23rd August 2024 at 11:59 pm EAT.