Location: Arusha, Tanzania

About Westerwelle Startup Haus Arusha

Westerwelle Startup Haus Arusha (WSHA) is a startup hub empowering local entrepreneurs and supporting the innovation ecosystem in Tanzania. The hub offers co-working space to its members, runs in-house incubation and acceleration programmes, and hosts regular events with stakeholders from the ecosystem. Headquartered in Berlin, the Westerwelle Foundation currently operates hubs in Rwanda, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Kenya. It runs support programmes focused on business ideation, proof of concept, and international acceleration. The Arusha hub provides a collaborative space for startups to develop and connect with other stakeholders.

Overview:

We are looking for a Programme Manager responsible for the organization, development, and comprehensive implementation of our entrepreneurship programmes. As the WSHA Programme Manager, you will lead the acquisition and strategic execution of the programmes. You will also be responsible for developing budgets and operating plans for programmes and writing programme funding proposals. This role encompasses the comprehensive end-to-end management of WSHA programs, including design, planning, resource allocation, coordination, and reporting.

The Programme Manager not only oversees the application, selection, and onboarding of startups but also ensures their continuous engagement and growth throughout the program. Acting as a dedicated resource for startups, this role supports their success and identifies relevant opportunities to ensure all programs meet the objectives of WSHA and its strategic partners. The Programme Manager actively engages with entrepreneurs, experts, and partners, fostering strong relationships within the startup ecosystem and beyond.

The Programme Manager reports directly to the Country Director, as well as the Global Head of Programmes based in the Berlin office.

Responsibilities:

Programme Management and Implementation:

• Collaborate with the Global Head of Programs to design, develop, and oversee the successful execution of high-impact programs aligned with strategic aims and objectives.
• Generate leads from the local ecosystem and develop programme planning and curriculum tailored to foster the growth of startups in Tanzania.
• Oversee the end-to-end program execution process, including setting deadlines, defining milestones, allocating resources, and engaging external resources as necessary.
• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of high-quality program events or workshops, Aligned with organizational goals and KPIs.
• Manage the workflow and tasks for the programmes, ensuring smooth daily implementation.
• Plan logistics for the entire program, engage startups in program activities, and conduct workshops and events.
• Structure the application process, disseminate call for applications into required tasks, and coordinate with Community coordinator to promote the call for applications and ensure program visibility.

Stakeholder Engagement and Fundraising:

• Design, organize, and develop fundraising plans; actively participate in fundraising efforts. Develop comprehensive program proposals to stakeholders and partners.
• Identify new program opportunities through active engagement with donors and stakeholders and conducting internet research.
• Build and maintain sustainable relations with programme partners, stakeholders, community members, ecosystem players, and investors, ensuring effective communication and information flow.
• Regularly engage with entrepreneurs, experts, and partners, fostering strong relationships within the startup ecosystem in Tanzania.
• Initiate new program management initiatives, following design thinking methodology, program management frameworks, company policies, and legal guidelines.
• Deliver input for marketing on program (pictures, videos, info on success stories) to the WSHA Community team.

Program Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting:

• Monitor the timeliness, quality, and accuracy of program activities to ensure compliance with contractual and program commitments.
• Develop, implement, and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) for each area of responsibility, ensuring targets are met and reported.
• Assess and mitigate risks associated with program activities.
• Collect feedback for continuous improvement from startups and fulfill reporting duties of donor and Westerwelle Foundation HQ.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Entrepreneurship, Management, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in project management, business, or entrepreneurship are preferred.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in program management, preferably in startup ecosystem development or entrepreneurship support.
• Proven track record of designing and executing successful programs aimed at startup or SME development and growth.
• Experience in fundraising, writing funding proposals, and engaging with donors and strategic partners.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement, including working with entrepreneurs and investors
• Demonstrable experience in budget development, financial management, and resource allocation.
• Familiarity with the startup ecosystem in Tanzania and the broader African market is highly desirable. Well positioned in the tech and entrepreneurship scene in Tanzania.
• Fluency in English and Swahili is required; knowledge of other languages is advantageous.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong leadership and people management skills, capable of driving team performance and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proficient in strategic planning and project management tools such as Asana, Microsoft Project, or similar.
• Ability to develop and implement comprehensive program plans and events that align with strategic objectives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the capacity to design and implement KPIs and monitor program success.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-growth environment, and think, plan, and execute resourcefully.
• Experienced networker and clear communicator, comfortable being in front of a group.

Personal Attributes

• High level of integrity and accountability, with a strong commitment to organizational values.
• Resilient and agile, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing environments.
• Passionate about entrepreneurship and innovation, with a genuine interest in supporting startups and contributing to their growth.