IIRR is one of the world’s leading rural development organizations, with over 65 years of community-led work globally. Our work is designed to empower rural communities to build resilient livelihoods, climate-smart food systems, and sustainable pathways out of poverty.
To date, IIRR’s programs have positively impacted more than 68 million lives, demonstrating our long-standing commitment to scalable, community-centered development that endures. We are now entering a bold new phase of growth and expansion across Africa.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Regional Director – Africa, based in Kenya, to lead IIRR’s next decade of impact across East and Southern Africa. This senior leadership role will shape strategy, expand partnerships, strengthen country operations, and drive the next major leap in our regional footprint.
The Regional Director will:
- Drive ambitious year-on-year revenue growth and build a strong regional funding pipeline
- Lead the design and scale-up of flagship multi-country programs in food systems, livelihoods, youth, and climate resilience
- Forge high-value partnerships with governments, foundations, multilaterals, DFIs, private sector, and research institutions
- Strengthen program quality, MEL systems, and operational excellence
- Represent IIRR as a leading voice in rural transformation and climate-resilient development in Africa
- Build on IIRR’s legacy, contributing to the expansion of impact beyond 68 million lives reached
Candidate Profile
Required Experience:
- Bachelor’s and/or Master’s Degree in a relevant field
- Kenyan national or an individual with a legal right to work in Kenya
- 10 – 20+ years in rural development, agriculture, food systems, climate resilience, livelihoods, or related sectors
- Demonstrated multi-country leadership in Sub-Saharan Africa (preference for those with East and Southern Africa experience)
- Proven ability to raise or manage USD $5M–$10M+ annually from donors or corporate partners
- Senior leadership background, such as Regional Director, Country Director, Deputy Regional Director, Head of Africa, or Chief of Party
Core Competencies:
- Strong partnership-builder with donors, government, private sector, and research institutions
- Strategic thinker with an entrepreneurial mindset
- Skilled leader of distributed, multicultural teams
- Ability to convert opportunities into scalable, high-impact programs
- Deep commitment to community-led, inclusive, and sustainable rural development
Requirements for Application
Interested candidates should upload the following:
1. Updated CV (maximum 4 pages)
• Highlighting relevant leadership experience, multi-country work, and fundraising achievements.
2. Cover Letter (1-2 pages)
• Explaining your motivation for the role
• Demonstrating alignment with IIRR’s mission and community-led approach
• Outlining how your experience matches the responsibilities and competencies required
3. Three Professional References
• Include name, title, organization, relationship, and contact information
• References will not be contacted without prior consent
4. Proof of Eligibility to Work in Kenya
• Required for all applicants (Kenyan national or right-to-work documentation)
5. Optional: Portfolio or Evidence of Impact
• Examples may include major programs led, partnerships developed, publications, or innovations in rural/agricultural development.
Application deadline: 15 January 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (ET)
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is strongly encouraged.
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