Program Innovation Manager (Pilots) Job Inkomoko

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The Program Innovation & Design Manager is responsible for managing innovation pilots and cross-functional projects aimed at improving Inkomoko’s service delivery. This includes leading the design, testing, and refinement of tools and methodologies, with a particular emphasis on digital solutions. The Program Innovation & Design Manager will work across departments to design experiments, coordinate implementation, monitor impact, and generate insights that inform strategic decisions.

The ideal candidate is a creative, analytical, and collaborative professional with strong technical skills and a passion for continuous improvement and innovation. They are curious, adaptable, and attentive listeners who thrive in cross-functional settings.  Success in this role requires the ability to influence and collaborate across teams. The role is open to candidates based in any of our countries of operations: Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan & Chad and will be reporting to the Head of Program Innovation at Inkomoko.

Key Responsibilities:

Project and Pilot Leadership

• Lead cross-functional innovation projects, from design through pilot implementation, with a focus on digitalization and emerging client needs.
• Manage timelines, resources, and stakeholders.
• Develop and test new tools and methodologies to improve client outcomes.
• Ensure consistent follow-through and cross-departmental support to successfully implement innovation projects.
• Support the integration of pilot outcomes and insights, working with relevant departments to review and adapt procedures.

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

• Work closely with Business Growth Services, Investments, MERL, IT, and other departments to ensure successful project execution.
• Align innovation initiatives with Inkomoko’s strategic goals and departmental priorities to promote outcomes-driven collaboration.
• Build relationships and influence across teams to foster ownership, alignment, and momentum for innovation projects.
• Provide flexible cross-functional support to Learning initiatives as needed – including contributing to workshops, materials, and capacity-building

Research & Evaluation

• Conduct exploratory research on client needs, external innovations, trends, and tools to inform potential pilots.
• Define success metrics and monitor pilot performance. 
• Analyze results and data to generate insights and suggest improvements for project effectiveness.
• Conduct feedback loops and iterate based on findings.

Communication and Reporting

• Prepare reports summarizing pilot activities, results, and recommendations.
• Synthesize data and lessons learned into actionable insights to inform decision-making and future initiatives.
• Contribute to the development of templates, manuals, and systems that increase operational efficiency.
• Contribute to donor updates and the dissemination of learning.

Requirements

They embody Inkomoko’s core values, build inclusive and safe learning environments, and continuously seek feedback and insights to improve impact. Practicing “radical candor”, they promote a culture of learning, cross-functional teamwork, and capacity building. 

In addition, we are looking for someone with:

• 5+ years of experience in project management and innovation.
• University degree (Master’s or equivalent)
• Proven experience managing pilots in a fast-growing NGO or social enterprise.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize data and insights.
• Adaptability to dynamic environments, with a results-driven mindset
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in French, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, Somali, or Swahili is desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and collaborate across teams.
• Familiarity with design thinking, user research methodologies, or agile methodology.
• Experience collaborating in multicultural, multi-country teams.
• Knowledge of economic development and displaced populations is an asset.
• Proficient in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) and other data and design tools.

Key Competencies:

We are looking for someone who:

• Leads Teams –  Aligns the team with common objectives derived from the organizational strategy, fosters a shared mindset, and celebrates wins while recognizing team efforts.
• Builds Trust – Holds self and others accountable by clearly outlining responsibilities, tracking results, delegating effectively, building independence, demonstrating care for others, and being consistent in actions.
• Relationship Management – Establishes and maintains strong relationships with key stakeholders, partners, and community leaders, while anticipating and balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders.
• Uses their Technical expertise to coach and guide staff to meet and exceed expectations.

How to Apply

Click here to apply