Senior Program Associate - Community
We are seeking a passionate, commercially-driven, and results-oriented Community Engagement & Business Development Specialist to support the strategic growth and implementation of off-grid energy solutions, Productive use of electricity (PUE) Machines and demand stimulation technologies across various CES Partners across Zambia. The candidate will play a key role in identifying and fostering partnerships, strengthening community relationships, and driving the adoption of impactful, clean energy solutions, particularly in rural areas.
The role will also involve market analysis, stakeholder engagement, and developing strategic initiatives to promote sustainable and inclusive energy access solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
Community Engagement & Relationship Management:
- Engage directly with local communities to raise awareness about off-grid energy solutions and educate on the benefits of clean, renewable energy.
- Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders including Partners, NGOs, and community leaders to ensure the successful implementation of energy projects.
- Work closely with technical teams and stakeholders to bridge the gap between communities and energy solutions.
Business Development & Partnerships:
- Identify, cultivate, and manage strategic partnerships that support the expansion of CES projects.
- Explore new business opportunities and help prepare proposals for funding and resources for sustainable projects.
- Assist preparing customer Contract, MOU and other documentations as per demand.
Sales Strategy & Market Analysis:
- Conduct thorough market research and analysis to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities in the off-grid energy space.
- Collaborate with the partner sales lead team’s to define and execute campaigns that drive product adoption and community outreach.
- Ensure adequate marketing and branding materials are available before project implementations Brochure, T-shirts, Gazebo’s etc.
Project Planning & Execution:
- Support the execution of energy projects by ensuring all milestones and timelines are met.
- Monitor the progress of projects, providing regular reports on performance, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
- Assist with project management and coordination across different functional teams to ensure alignment and successful outcomes.
Capacity Building & Training:
- Provide training and capacity building to local communities and stakeholders to ensure sustainable energy solutions are understood and effectively utilized.
- Support the development of partners, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed for successful project rollouts.
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing or completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Project Management (or a related field).
- 5+ years of experience in community engagement, operations management, or business development in the off-grid energy.
- Strong knowledge of off-grid energy solutions and the renewable energy sector in Zambia, with a deep understanding of rural communities' needs.
- Proven experience in stakeholder management, partnership development.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to conduct market research, and identify growth opportunities.
- Experience in sales strategy development and execution to drive revenue growth.
- Ability to work cross-functionally and collaborate with technical, sales, and operational teams.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with an emphasis on community engagement.
- A solution-driven mindset with a passion for local communities and promoting sustainable energy solutions.
- Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Commercial acumen and the ability to drive business growth through strategic partnerships and market insights,
Additional Information
Customized Energy Solutions offers competitive salary commensurate with experience. Involves extensive travel—around 80%—to rural communities and field project sites throughout Zambia, which may occasionally require overnight stays.This is a contractual position for a duration of one year, with the possibility of extension based on organizational requirements and individual performance.
Customized Energy Solutions provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.