Business Counselor 1- Readvertisement at TechnoServe Kenya

Job Summary

TechnoServe is seeking to fill 4 positions of Business Counselors to support the implementation of program activities in Nairobi and Kisumu counties. The Business Counsellor is responsible for the day-to-day implementation of field activities under the program, focusing on supporting program participants through mobilization, training, and business advisory services. The role contributes to achieving program deliverables through close collaboration with Business Advisors. 

Program Overview: 

Since 2023, TechnoServe has supported women micro-retailers with disabilities within Coca-Cola Beverages Africa’s (CCBA) retail distribution chain as a consortium partner under the Global Labor Program – Inclusive Futures program. TechnoServe has received funding to continue implementation of components of this activity. The program will provide business management skills training, and coaching, and facilitate strategic linkages with CCBA for women with disabilities in Kisumu, Nairobi and neighboring counties. 

REsilience for Women with disAbilities through micro-Retail Development Support (REWARDS) is a targeted initiative designed to build upon TechnoServe's successful work supporting women micro-retailers with disabilities. The program will empower participants through business skills training, financial inclusion, digital adoption, and peer network development to create sustainable enterprises capable of withstanding economic challenges. REWARDS will expand lessons learned integrating retailers into the CCBA value chain into additional revenue earning opportunities in complementary value chains.

REWARDS is designed to create lasting change by addressing the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs with disabilities through an integrated approach that builds skills, expands access to financial services, leverages digital solutions, and fosters supportive communities.

Through the formation and establishment of business groups, the program will foster greater connectivity among these entrepreneurs, enhancing their ability to share knowledge, access markets, and advocate for their needs. Additionally, the initiative will expand its reach to new cohorts of women with disabilities across diverse sectors, including the food industry and agribusiness - broadening economic opportunities and deepening impact through strategic partnerships. 

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

Program Participant Recruitment and Mobilization

• Conduct area mapping to identify potential locations and beneficiaries.
• Mobilize and recruit program participants in line with predefined criteria and inclusion principles.
• Maintain accurate records of beneficiary selection and onboarding.

Training and Business Support

• Deliver training sessions to micro-retailers based on program curriculum and guidelines.
• Provide one-on-one support and follow-up with participants to reinforce learning and application.

Linkages and Market Access

• Facilitate linkages between micro-retailers and financial institutions, suppliers, and other key ecosystem players.
• Support access to relevant business services, markets, and products that enhance business operations.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Support data collection activities including surveys, assessments, and routine monitoring.
• Submit timely weekly and monthly reports on program activities and progress.
• Document lessons learned, challenges, and program success stories.

Coordination and Communication

• Maintain open and regular communication with Business Advisors and fellow Counsellors to ensure cohesive implementation.
• Attend regular team meetings and contribute to planning and review sessions.
• Understand, uphold, and promote TechnoServe’s values, mission, and strategy in all program activities.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Business Advisor or Program Manager that are consistent with the role and contribute to program success.

Minimum required skills and experience:

• Experience in community mobilization, training delivery, or field-level advisory roles.
• Experience of working with micro-retailers or small enterprises preferred.
• Conversant with recent trends in the retail industry in the country and familiarity with financial inclusion and market linkage approaches.
• Experience with digital training and delivery mechanisms
• Experience working with Persons with disability and basic sign language is desirable
• Strong and demonstrable report writing skills
• Experience working with communities living on less than $2 a day and willingness to travel frequently in the informal settlements
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication and organizational skills 
• Proficiency in MS Office especially Excel and PowerPoint