Country Partnerships Manager – Zambia KickStart International

KickStart is an award-winning, global nonprofit social enterprise that develops and mass-markets low-cost irrigation solutions that are bought by thousands of small-holder farmers in developing countries and used to increase their income by up to a factor of ten, enabling them to lift themselves sustainably out of poverty. (See www.KickStart.org for more information).

This role is pivotal in achieving KickStart’s mission to move millions of people in sub-saharan Africa out of Poverty quickly, cost-effectively, and sustainably through effective marketing and sales of our branded irrigation solutions. By fostering partnerships and managing a dedicated team, the Country Sales and Partnerships Manager will help empower local farmers, increase agricultural productivity, and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Functional Area: Southern Africa Region Hub – Zambia

Position / Job Title: Country Sales & Partnerships Manager – Zambia

Position Holder: TBR

Reports to: Southern Africa Hub Manager

Location: Lusaka- Zambia

Job Purpose

The Country Sales and Partnerships Manager position is responsible for developing, expanding, and reporting on the program in Zambia. She/he will be responsible for managing KickStart’s sales and Marketing activities and the staff in Zambia and will report to the SA Hub Manager. These activities support the primary goal of getting people out of poverty in Zambia by promoting the sales and usage of our branded irrigation pumps through partnerships and the private sector.

Key Responsibilities

Market Analysis and Strategy Development:

• Conduct thorough market research to understand opportunities and potential for irrigation solutions across Zambia,
• Develop targeted market development and sales plans for different regions.

Sales and Marketing Execution:

• Lead the implementation of sales and marketing strategies to achieve growth in sales, social impacts, market share, and profitability.
• Build and maintain partnerships with NGOs, UN organizations (e.g., FAO, World Food Program), government bodies, out-growers, and other stakeholders.

Distribution Network Management:

• Select, appoint, develop, and manage a network of distributors to ensure effective market coverage and product availability.

Team Leadership and Capacity Building:

• Manage, coach, and develop the skills of direct reports and distributor staff.
• Ensure the team and distributors are aligned with organizational goals and standards.

Reporting and Compliance:

• Provide accurate and timely reports on activities, finances, and social impacts.
  Ensure compliance with local legislation and organizational policies.

Risk Management:

• Conduct regular risk assessments and advise on mitigation strategies to prevent litigation or unnecessary costs.

Resource Management:

• Oversee the prudent management of KickStart’s resources and ensure cost-effective operations.

Operational and Logistical Management:

• Handle operational issues related to staff travel, distributor relationships, and customer needs.
• Ensure that targets are met efficiently and with minimal inconvenience.

Key Performance Criteria:

Impact and Sales Targets:

• Achieve sales and social impact goals.

Partnership Development:

• Successfully create and manage strategic partnerships.

Supply Chain Effectiveness:

• Develop an efficient supply chain network in Senegal.

Data Collection:

Ensure effective collection of end-user data for impact monitoring.
Budget Management:
Manage budgets effectively and provide accurate financial forecasts.
Team Performance:

• Build and maintain a high-performing, ethical team.

Resource Mobilization:

• Engage in successful fundraising and resource mobilization efforts.

Sales Team Management:

• Ensure effective management and performance of the sales team.

CRM Utilization:

• Utilize CRM tools effectively to capture and manage engagement data.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Growth Model: Establish a scalable and sustainable growth model for KickStart in Zambia.
• Economic Sustainability: Optimize economic sustainability and support fundraising efforts.
• Market Assessment: Conduct regular assessments and develop sales and marketing plans.
• Sales and Promotion: Manage sales plans, pricing, and promotional activities.
• Product Promotion: Promote products through demonstrations, support, and training.
• Account Management: Handle customer and distributor accounts effectively.
• Budgeting: Develop and manage the program’s budget and provide sales forecasts.
• Program Design: Design and implement business plans and relevant models.
• Leadership: Provide leadership and support to the sales team.
• Reporting: Prepare monthly work plans and reports.
• Impact Monitoring: Collect data for monitoring social impact.

Skills, Experiences, and Competencies:

• Experience: 8-10 years in sales and partnerships, with experience in both private and public sectors in agriculture.
• Partnership Building: Proven ability to develop and manage partnerships.
• Market Knowledge: Strong understanding of the Zambia agricultural market.
• Presentation Skills: Excellent business presentation abilities.
• People Management: Experience in managing, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams.
• Financial Management: Expertise in developing and managing budgets.
• Customer Focus: Strong focus on customer needs and satisfaction.
• Results Orientation: Proactive, adaptable, and able to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication: Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and detail-oriented abilities.
• Alignment with Values: Shares KickStart’s values and mission.
• Language Skills: Fluent in English and local languages
• Travel Willingness: Willing to travel up to 60% of the time.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agribusiness, Economics, Sales, or Marketing.

Kickstart International is an Equal Opportunity Employer promoting gender, equity, and diversity. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.