Program Manager (Creative Economy & Innovation)

PROGRAM MANAGER (CREATIVE ECONOMY & INNOVATION) The overall purpose of the job is to lead the development and implementation of the Baraza’s creative economy and innovation programs portfolio nationwide working with sector stakeholders and communities. The role reports to the Head of Operations and Programs while its direct report is the Program Associate- Monitoring & Evaluation. Main Duties and Responsibilities of the Job Develop and maintain strong relationships with the program partners & donors, ensuring transparent communication, alignment of goals, and regular updates on program progress and impact. Coordinate with partners on the Creatives Program to strategize, execute, and implement program initiatives. Key contact person for internal and external stakeholders to ensure activities fit within the organization’s strategy. Develop program assessment protocols for evaluation and improvement, for example relating to financial management and reporting, evaluation, contract management, etc. Work with other program managers to identify risks and opportunities across multiple projects within the department. Project manage the planning, schedules, and budgets for agreed activities to ensure that all tasks are completed within the timeframe and budget parameters defined during project design. Collaborate with the broader team to deliver on agreed programs. Participating in grant application processes including design, submission, and review. Driving programmatic fundraising efforts and securing diversified revenue streams for the Creative Economy portfolio. Provide progress reports on programs to senior management and other key leadership stakeholders. Develop a framework that guides engagement between Baraza and various levels of stakeholders. Curate relevant activities, events, and workshops that will drive innovation in the selected thematic areas in collaboration with the curatorial and events team. Analyze, evaluate, and overcome program risks, and produce program reports for management and stakeholders. Participate in budget formation and manage funding channels for maximum productivity. Team leadership - manage and mentor programs teams across Baraza, ensuring alignment, efficiency, and a shared sense of purpose. Handle any other task and projects as assigned from time to time. Requirements Qualifications, Skills, Competencies required Minimum Academic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized and accredited institution, an advanced degree is a plus. Relevant Professional Experience: 7 years of directly relevant experience is essential. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in the media and creative industries. Communication Skills: Exceptional proficiency, including expertise in Facilitation and successful Grant & Proposal Writing. Exceptional Coordination and Organizational Skills: Superior ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and stakeholders simultaneously with meticulous attention to detail and efficient time management. Program Management Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in the full program management lifecycle for complex, cross-functional initiatives, including risk management. Negotiation Skills: High level of skill to secure favorable terms, resolve differences, build consensus, and manage contractual discussions professionally. Strategic & Planning Skills: Ability to think strategically, translating organizational goals into actionable, detailed plans, involving foresight and resource allocation. Good Interpersonal Skills: Capacity to build and maintain strong, productive, and respectful working relationships across all levels. Conflict Management Skills: Ability to proactively identify, address, and resolve workplace or partnership conflicts constructively and impartially. Personal Attributes Passionate about media, storytelling, technology, and innovation. Culturally sensitive, inclusive, and proactive in fostering diverse communities. Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work independently and collaboratively. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Benefits Why Join Us? Impact: Build a robust community that contributes to the evolution and growth of Kenya’s media and creative ecosystem. Community: Work with a diverse and vibrant network of professionals, creatives, and thought leaders. Growth: Gain hands-on professional development and exposure to the African ecosystem of creatives, media practitioners, and stakeholders. Mentorship opportunities with leaders in the field. Paid Time Off: Recharge and rejuvenate with generous time off. Comprehensive Health Cover: Prioritize your and dependents’ well-being with top-tier health coverage. Emergency Assistance Program: Access support in unexpected situations. Professional Development Plan: Invest in your professional growth with an annual development allowance. How to Apply: If you’re excited about leading our creative economy programs portfolio in the African creative and media ecosystem, we’d love to hear from you. Submit your application by 18th January 2026. Applicants will be shortlisted on a rolling basis. Baraza Media Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Baraza prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind; we’re committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Baraza are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, colour, religion, gender or sexual orientation.