Strathmore University Business School (SBS), a premier academic institution, continues to make significant strides in shaping professional and executive education in Africa. In its commitment to nurture entrepreneurial talent, enhance innovation, and support business growth in Kenya and across the region, SBS invites applications from qualified and experienced candidates to lead its Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Centre (SEDIC).
This is an exceptional opportunity for a visionary and strategic leader to play a pivotal role in transforming entrepreneurial education, cultivating sustainable partnerships, and guiding business development for the institution. The selected candidate will be entrusted with overseeing operations, business strategy, and growth for the entrepreneurship unit under Executive Education.
Job Title
Head, Strathmore Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Centre (SEDIC)
Department
Executive Education
Reporting to
Director, Executive Education
Job Purpose
The Head of SEDIC will spearhead business development initiatives, ensure the attainment of revenue targets for entrepreneurship programs, enforce quality assurance, and establish long-term client and stakeholder relationships. The ideal candidate will possess the acumen to lead innovative entrepreneurship programs, implement strategic plans, and collaborate with corporate and public sector partners to foster impactful entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
The role encompasses a range of strategic, operational, and leadership responsibilities:
1. Strategic Leadership and Vision
- Develop and implement a clear vision and long-term strategy for SEDIC within the Executive Education department.
- Align the unit’s goals with broader institutional priorities and market demands.
2. Business Development
- Drive the growth of entrepreneurial programs through strategic proposal writing, lead generation, and setting up business meetings.
- Engage actively in sales pitches, new business opportunities, and referral follow-ups to grow revenue streams.
3. Partnership Development
- Foster and expand partnerships with corporates, investors, startups, and policy organizations to enhance program offerings and impact.
- Engage stakeholders and collaborate with industry players to promote innovation and venture growth.
4. Client and Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain relationships with existing clients and cultivate new ones to enhance satisfaction and retention.
- Understand and address client needs to develop tailored program offerings and foster long-term collaborations.
5. Tender and Expression of Interest (EOI) Management
- Respond promptly to tenders and EOIs with high-quality submissions to increase program visibility and success rates.
- Coordinate the proposal preparation process to ensure timely and competitive documentation.
6. Financial Management
- Manage the unit’s budget, oversee cost control measures, and ensure prudent financial planning.
- Monitor debt collection and implement mechanisms for effective financial accountability.
7. Program Execution and Quality Assurance
- Oversee delivery of high-impact entrepreneurial programs with strong relevance to current market trends.
- Implement rigorous quality control measures to maintain program standards.
8. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Establish performance metrics to evaluate the impact of programs and participant outcomes.
- Utilize feedback and data to refine and improve future programs and services.
9. Market Intelligence and Product Innovation
- Collect and analyze market feedback to inform product development and competitive offerings.
- Innovate new training modules and courses aligned with evolving entrepreneurial needs.
10. Marketing and Brand Promotion
- Lead marketing efforts in collaboration with the Head of Sales and Marketing to position SEDIC prominently in the industry.
- Oversee creation of marketing literature and digital content to promote offerings effectively.
11. Work Planning and Execution
- Plan and coordinate the unit’s work plans and ensure effective implementation of activities across the team.
- Monitor progress and address any challenges that impede target achievement.
12. Team Leadership and Human Resource Management
- Recruit, train, and supervise business development personnel to support unit growth.
- Promote a healthy, values-based work environment that aligns with Strathmore’s institutional culture.
13. Process and Policy Compliance
- Ensure all business operations comply with SBS policies and regulatory standards.
- Champion ethical practices and customer service excellence across all engagements.
14. Customer Service and Client Satisfaction
- Set and uphold high customer service standards to guarantee client satisfaction.
- Address complaints and feedback constructively to improve service delivery.
15. Staff Mentorship and Organizational Culture
- Provide dynamic leadership to foster a productive and motivating team environment.
- Uphold Strathmore’s values and model integrity, professionalism, and respect in all interactions.
Job Requirements
Education & Experience
- Master’s Degree in a Business-related field.
- 6–8 years of experience in a similar or related role, with at least 3 years in a managerial position.
- Demonstrated experience in leading or scaling entrepreneurship programs, innovation hubs, or startup accelerators.
- A strong understanding of university programs and executive education is highly desirable.
Skills & Attributes
- Exceptional negotiation skills with a track record of securing new business.
- Innovation-oriented mindset and problem-solving abilities.
- Leadership and team management experience.
- Experience with startup ecosystems, venture capital, or corporate innovation.
- Proficiency in digital tools for maintaining records and business analytics.
- Excellent communication, persuasion, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
- Solid market knowledge and industry expertise.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Strathmore University Business School is an equal opportunity employer. We do not ask for payment of any kind at any stage of the recruitment process. We encourage all interested and qualified individuals to apply with confidence. Please remain alert to recruitment scams and fraudulent job offers.
How to Apply
If you believe you are a dynamic leader with the right skills and vision for this role, we encourage you to apply.
Please submit your application letter and a copy of your updated resume, quoting the job title ‘Head of SEDIC’, addressed to:
People and Culture Manager
Strathmore University Business School
Send your application to the following email address:
[email protected]
Application Deadline: Wednesday, 16th April 2025 at 5.30 PM
Due to the large volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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