Head of Portfolio (Micro-Entrepreneurs)

Our client is a UK-registered charity that aims to empower underserved populations in Africa and Asia with access to clean energy products and services. 

A unique foundation on the global stage, uses grant, debt and equity funding to support commercially sustainable solutions at the intersection of inclusive growth and a clean energy transition. Their work has already improved the lives of 229 million people.

Head of Portfolio (Micro-entrepreneurs)
9-12 Month contract, start March ‘25
Based – London, Nigeria or Kenya
Salary – £110,000 FTE; Nigeria/Kenya – based on experience, in line with local market

We are seeking a Head of Portfolio to lead and manage a team that curates and scales a portfolio of solutions that deliver impact across our work with the micro-entrepreneur sector.

You will oversee and advise a team that build a pipeline of potential investments, structures deals and prepares proposals for scrutiny and approval, creating opportunities to invest in businesses that enable micro-entrepreneurs (in Sub Saharan Africa and India) to earn a living income through productive uses of energy and/or the displacement of energy. 

Responsible for all aspects of the micro-entrepreneur portfolio you will lead a range of high-level strategic partnerships and relationships, both internally and externally, whilst ensuring delivery across all elements of the portfolio.  

To be successful in this role you have significant commercial experience in a business field ideally gained in a fast growth venture, with Board level experience

Responsibilities include:

• Leadership and development of a team of Business Development Directors and Business Development Advisers designated to the portfolio (remote) 
• Relationship management and Advisory Committee support for key partnerships and investments 
• Identifying and promoting cross sector / region initiatives and new partnership origination to deliver business plan outcomes 
• Proposal of enhancements to the micro-entrepreneur portfolio investment theses, based on new insights emerging from the sector and the portfolio.
• Deliver on and support co-funding initiatives with organisations such as FCDO (to mobilise capital)
• Contribute insight, learning and information towards sector knowledge and understanding. 
• Act as advocate for micro entrepreneur specialism, promoting the Foundation at external party events and via other opportunities to demonstrate sector thought leadership. 
• Prepare and present papers for Board, Management meetings and external parties as appropriate. 
• Contribute towards the delivery of the annual business plan 

The role will require commercial acumen, creative problem-solving skills and the ability to lead a range of stakeholder coalitions and key partnership relationships successfully. Alongside this you will have:

• Proven ability to identify & evaluate disruptive and transformative solutions and to understand risk. 
• Experience in scaling social enterprises or market enablers or working in a senior capacity in a funding institution. 
• Experience of establishing and developing strategic partnerships. 
• Experience of working with businesses that have needed to pivot or turnaround, requiring restructuring, and raising capital, especially in developing countries. 
• Experience of working in the not-for-profit / philanthropic sector will be an advantage. 

If you bring business and commercial acumen; enjoy creativity, innovation and are a skilled communicator, influencer and partnership/relationship manager we would love to hear from you.  

This position offers flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to work flexibly with a base at our London Head Office at least one day a week, plus regular travel within our operating markets (c20%). We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and take safeguarding seriously. All offers of engagement or employment will be subject to satisfactory safeguarding checks and references.

Our client is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities and encourage individuals from underrepresented communities to apply. 

We are reviewing and submitting applications on a rolling basis so early submission is advised (the role may close at short notice).