Technical Advisor Joint Innovation Facility (SPARK)

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

About GIZ:TheDeutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a federal enterprise that implements German development policy around the globe. By providing international cooperation services for sustainable development, GIZ is dedicated to building a future worth living around the world. With over 50 years of experience in a wide variety of areas, including economic development and employment, energy, and the environment as well as peace and security; GIZ also stands for and works towards the realization of human rights in the digital space.  GIZ implements the regional project 'SPARK' which aims at strengthening African technology ecosystems for gender-responsive, climate-smart, and research-based innovation on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). With a strong focus on gender and climate priorities, the project reinforces the link between applied research and entrepreneurship. While the project has roots in pan-African Startup andTech-Ecosystem Support focus areas are:boost cooperation with innovation ecosystem actorsoffer ventures more fit-for-purpose financing opportunitiesImplementing the Joint Innovation Facility, funding co-creative innovation projectsThe project has a pan-African scope, and the teams will operate out of Nairobi, Kenya

RESPONSIBILITIES

ResponsibilitiesThe Joint Innovation Facility (XIF) is a collaborative platform designed to drive systemic innovation between Africa and Europe. It focuses on climate-positive, scalable solutions by connecting small and growing businesses, startups, corporates, research institutions, and innovation hubs. The Key Objectives of the XIF are, to strengthen Africa-Europe or Africa-Africa partnerships through inclusive and equitable collaboration, support innovation in climate, digital transformation, and societal inclusion and support to scale commercially viable and regionally embedded solutions. Furthermore, it aims to foster African leadership, ensuringprojects contribute to local ecosystems. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to join our team as (Senior) Project Manager Innovation Facility & Investment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in managing investment or grant facilities across multiple Sub-Saharan African countries, with expertise in climate- tech and navigatingcomplex, uncertain environments.Additionally, you will collaborate closely with other bilateral, regional and global GIZ projects as well as other EU Member states and the EU to co-create viable ideas benefiting over-all objectives and implementation.In this context, the Project Manager fulfils the following tasks:Tasks1. Design and Co-create the XIF implementation Lead and manage large-scale innovation projects across Africa, ensuring strategic alignment and operational excellence.Oversee the end-to-end process from call for applications and selection to final invoice for investment volumes exceeding €200K and manage grants of similar value.Assess project proposals, evaluate potential investments, and coordinate multi-stakeholder consortia.Drive collaboration within the innovation ecosystem, leveraging partnerships across Africa.Apply diplomacy and strategic foresight to balance big-picture thinking with attention to detail when needed.Foster climate tech initiatives, working effectively in dynamic and uncertain environments. 2. Implement the ProjectDesigning, planning, executing, and reviewing activities and programs along identified needs and in close alignment with other intervention areasacross the continent Deliver direct advisory to project beneficiaries in Africa and EuropeDrawing project budgets, support in raising funding, implementation and contract- management Building a database of sectorial communities to guide strategic decisionsEngage with ecosystem actors with a focus on potential beneficiaries and stakeholders- investment networks, ecosystem partners, corporates, and startups, academia, etc. to create buy-in and anchor the activity in the ecosystemsB. Required qualifications, competences and experienceQualificationsWe would love to get to know you if you are a strong team player but at the same time have a strong track record of self-motivation, giving creative impulses, and implementing them, learning new topics quickly and comprehensivelyYou have a university degree in economics, business, investment banking or a similar fieldProfessional experience10+ years of experience in project management, particularly in investment, innovation and climate-related fields in multiple African countiesProven track record in managing investments and grants exceeding €200K.Proven skills in Project Proposal assessment and consortia managementStrong experience working with innovation ecosystems across multiple Sub-Saharan African countriesExpertise in climate tech, sustainabilityExperience in cooperating with innovation ecosystem actors in Europe and setting up joint projects is considered an additional benefitOther knowledge, additional competencesExceptional diplomacy skills and the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.Ability to see and manage the bigger picture but care for details if neededAbility to navigate uncertainty and drive impact in challenging environments. Excellent organizational and coordination skills and are a keen collaboratorBusiness fluency in English is vital.Knowledge of German and French would be an advantageC. DurationAssignment period up to 31.12.2027 Submission of ApplicationVacancy Reference Number: GIZ/SED/06/02/2025GIZ is an equal opportunity employer.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.GIZ promotes Gender Diversity – Applications from women professionals are encouraged.Disclaimer: As per GIZ’s data confidentiality policy, candidate’s application is stored in our database for 6 (six) months and is deleted thereafter.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Project monitoring and evaluation (M&E), Grant and fund management, Innovation processes, Investment advise, Programme management, Project management

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree