Programme Officer – Nairobi – Tenakata Enterprises Limited

Programme Officer – Nairobi – Tenakata Enterprises Limited

---

• Position: Programme Officer
• Company: Tenakata Enterprises Limited
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Type of Job: Full-Time
• Reporting to: Programme Manager
• Application Deadline: November 30, 2024

---

Introduction

Are you passionate about empowering women entrepreneurs and contributing to economic growth? Join Tenakata Enterprises Limited as a Programme Officer and take on a pivotal role in overseeing the Catalytic Fund for Women Entrepreneurs Loan Program. In this dynamic position, you will manage the day-to-day operations of the program, ensuring efficient loan disbursement and providing invaluable support to our beneficiaries. As part of our team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while gaining unique experiences in the financial services sector.

---

Key Responsibilities

As a Programme Officer, you will be responsible for the following key duties:

• Ensure timely disbursement of loans to qualified medium-sized women-owned businesses.
• Develop and maintain a tracking system for loan applications, disbursements, and repayments.
• Work closely with the Programme Manager to implement agreed strategies, processes, and timelines.
• Serve as the primary contact for the program’s beneficiaries, providing guidance and support throughout the loan process.
• Assist beneficiaries with business plans, record-keeping, and other documentation required for loan disbursement.
• Organize and facilitate training sessions, workshops, and business coaching tailored to the needs of the beneficiaries.
• Conduct regular monitoring of businesses to track the impact of the loans on business performance.
• Collect and analyze data related to loan performance and program outcomes.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly reports on program activities and performance metrics for internal and external stakeholders.
• Liaise with Tenakata and Wezesha Wanawake teams to ensure the smooth running of the program.
• Support the monthly committee meetings by preparing program performance data and loan appraisal documents.
• Collaborate with local branch teams to ensure program alignment with Tenakata’s broader goals and operations.
• Ensure all loans disbursed adhere to the initiative’s credit policies and risk management protocols.
• Support due diligence processes on loan applicants, ensuring compliance with internal and regulatory guidelines.
• Report any deviations, risks, or challenges to the Programme Manager for timely resolution.
• Provide advisory and identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Contribute to the design of new loan products, training materials, and outreach strategies.

---

Qualifications and Skills

To be considered for the Programme Officer position, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in program management, preferably in microfinance, women’s empowerment initiatives, or MSME lending.
• Strong understanding of microfinance and lending to small and medium enterprises.
• Experience in women’s empowerment or economic inclusion programs is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of financial management, loan processes, and business coaching.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with clients, stakeholders, and team members.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage multiple aspects of the program.
• Proficient in data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to navigate challenges in program implementation.
• High attention to detail and a proactive approach to risk management.

---

Company Culture and Values

At Tenakata Enterprises Limited, we foster a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. Our mission is to support women entrepreneurs in their journey toward economic independence and success. We value teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. By joining our team, you will become part of a dynamic environment where your contributions are recognized, and you can grow both personally and professionally.

---

Apply Now For Programme Officer

Ready to make a difference? Apply now to join Tenakata Enterprises Limited as a Programme Officer and help empower women entrepreneurs across Kenya! Submit your application through our website or contact us directly. We are excited to hear from you!

• TELEGRAM CHANNEL

---

Expert Tips to Be a Successful Applicant for the Programme Officer Role

1. Tailor Your Resume to Highlight Relevant Experience

Ensure your resume emphasizes your experience in program management, particularly in microfinance or women’s empowerment initiatives. Tailor your work history to reflect specific roles where you managed projects, oversaw operations, or worked closely with beneficiaries.

Example: If you previously worked at a microfinance institution, detail your role in loan disbursement processes, mentioning any specific programs you managed. Use metrics such as “Successfully managed a portfolio of 50+ loans with a repayment rate of 95%.”

2. Craft a Compelling Cover Letter

Your cover letter should tell your story. Explain why you are passionate about women entrepreneurs and how your skills align with Tenakata’s mission. Address the specific needs mentioned in the job description, such as loan disbursement and beneficiary coaching.

Example: Start your letter with a strong statement like, “With over three years of experience in empowering women-owned businesses through tailored financial solutions, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Tenakata’s Catalytic Fund for Women Entrepreneurs.”

3. Showcase Entrepreneurial Skills

As the Programme Officer role requires entrepreneurial skills, demonstrate this in your application. Highlight any experience in starting a business, leading initiatives, or innovating solutions in challenging situations.

Example: If you launched a community project or a startup, explain the concept, challenges faced, and how you overcame them, such as “By leveraging local partnerships, I increased project funding by 40%, enabling us to reach more women entrepreneurs.”

4. Emphasize Data-Driven Decision Making

The role involves monitoring and analyzing loan performance and program outcomes. Showcase your proficiency in data analysis, including any tools you’ve used and how you applied data insights to drive program success.

Example: Detail your experience with software like Excel or specific databases: “Utilized Excel to track loan performance metrics, leading to a 20% increase in program efficiency by adjusting strategies based on data analysis.”

5. Highlight Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Strong communication is crucial for liaising with beneficiaries and stakeholders. Provide examples of how you’ve effectively communicated complex information to various audiences, whether through reports, presentations, or training sessions.

Example: Mention a specific instance: “Conducted training workshops for over 30 women entrepreneurs, simplifying financial literacy concepts to ensure comprehension and confidence in managing their loans.”

6. Demonstrate Organizational Skills

The ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines is essential for the Programme Officer position. Provide examples of your organizational methods, including any project management tools you’ve used to ensure timely loan disbursements and monitoring.

Example: Describe a project where you coordinated multiple elements: “Managed a project timeline with Asana, ensuring all loan applications were processed within three weeks, resulting in a streamlined operation.”

7. Prepare for Behavioral Interview Questions

Anticipate questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you’ve handled past challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

Example: If asked about a challenging project, respond with: “In my previous role, I encountered a 15% default rate on loans. I initiated a review process (Situation), identified training needs (Task), developed workshops (Action), and reduced defaults by 30% in six months (Result).”

8. Research Tenakata Enterprises Limited

Familiarize yourself with Tenakata’s mission, vision, and current initiatives. Incorporate this knowledge into your application and interviews to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment with their goals.

Example: Mention specific programs or successes: “I admire Tenakata’s commitment to empowering women through sustainable financial solutions, particularly the impact of the Catalytic Fund on local communities.”

9. Network with Current Employees or Alumni

Connect with current or former employees of Tenakata Enterprises Limited through platforms like LinkedIn. Informational interviews can provide insights into the company culture and expectations for the role, which you can use in your application.

Example: Ask insightful questions like, “What qualities do you believe are essential for success in the Programme Officer role?” This knowledge can help you tailor your application further.

10. Follow Up After Applying

After submitting your application, consider sending a polite follow-up email. Express your continued interest in the role and inquire about the next steps in the hiring process. This demonstrates enthusiasm and professionalism.

Example: A follow-up email could read: “I wanted to follow up regarding my application for the Programme Officer position submitted on [date]. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to Tenakata’s mission and would appreciate any updates on my application status.”

---