Africa Programme Lead, Power Initiative

About the role

The Rockefeller Foundation runs the Power Initiative supporting energy access in Sub-Saharan Africa, including the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP). The Africa Programme Lead manages the Africa portfolio supporting mini-grid, solar, distributed renewable energy, and grid expansion strategies. Application deadline 31 August 2026.

Responsibilities

• Lead programme strategy for the Africa Power portfolio (USD 50 million plus annual deployment).
• Build relationships with African governments, multilateral financiers, mini-grid developers, and renewable energy companies.
• Author grant memos, sector white papers, and stakeholder briefings.
• Coordinate Rockefeller Foundation’s contributions to GEAPP and other multi-funder initiatives.
• Represent the Foundation at major African and global energy convenings.

Requirements

• Advanced university degree in energy policy, economics, engineering, public policy, or related field.
• Ten or more years of relevant professional experience including senior responsibility for African energy programmes.
• Demonstrated track record influencing African government energy policy or major project deployment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English; French strongly preferred.
• Authorisation to work in Kenya.

Nice to have

• Prior in-house experience at a multilateral development bank or major energy company.
• Existing relationships with African Ministries of Energy and regulators.
• MBA or PhD in a relevant discipline.

How to apply

Open the Rockefeller Foundation careers page at the apply link, search for “Africa Programme Lead Power”, and apply through the Foundation’s recruitment portal. CV review, hiring manager interview, technical interviews, and panel with the Vice President of the Power Initiative follow. Closing date 31 August 2026.