Programme Coordinator – Democratic Space

The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung (hbf) Nairobi Office is searching for a high-caliber Programme Coordinator to lead the Democratic Space Programme across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. As part of the global Green movement, hbf is at the forefront of driving social innovation, political change, and civic engagement.

In this role, you will provide the strategic steering necessary to navigate the complex political landscapes of East Africa. You will act as a bridge between grassroots civil society and high-level policy dialogues, managing partner relationships, conceptualizing research, and overseeing impactful advocacy campaigns.

If you are an analytical thinker with a Master’s degree and at least 5 years of experience in the non-profit sector, this is your opportunity to join a global network of professionals dedicated to protecting democratic values and fostering regional transformation.

The Heinrich-Böll-Foundation (hbf) is a non-profit organisation and part of the global Green movement headquartered in Berlin, Germany. The hbf Nairobi Office supports activities in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania through coordinated civic engagement, political/policy dialogues, research, publications, and strategic communication.

The Programme Coordinator will be responsible for developing, coordinating and managing projects under the Democratic Space Programme Component.

We are looking for a self-motivated individual with excellent analytical skills and a strong background in non-profit programme management, advocacy and strategic communication, with a focus on democratic and civic space.

This position is based in the hbs office in Nairobi.

Responsibilities / what you will do: 

• Provide general orientation and strategic steering to the Democratic Space Programme.
• Monitor, assess and analyse current developments in the political and social regional context.
• Actively solicit, review, and support the development of partner proposals, conceptualise, and carry out hbfs’ activities.
• Oversee the implementation of partner cooperation contracts, including a high standard of narrative and financial reporting, monitoring progress and ensuring that activities complement the goal of the programme.
• Coordinate, network, and broker relationships with key civil society actors (including relevant NGO networks), INGOs, and research institutions pertinent to achieving the hbf programme strategy.
• Facilitate networking between partners, including through the convening of occasional formal and informal meetings.
• Administer a programme budget according to fundamental accounting principles and the hbs finance policy.

Requirements / what you will bring: 

• Masters Degree in political or social science, law, human rights or related fields, or comparable proven work experience which, through the qualifications acquired, is equivalent to a Masters degree
• At least seven (5) years of professional experience in civil society organisations, think (and do) tanks, research institutions or similar
• Excellent understanding of national and regional politics, history and contemporary dynamics
• Excellent understanding of gender and diversity concepts and theories, including practical experience in gender analysis and mainstreaming
• Excellent conceptual and analytical skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including a demonstrated ability to engage with online and offline media on a variety of channels
• An ability to build and nurture positive, professional relationships with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences

What we offer:

We offer a challenging, creative, and intellectually stimulating career experience as part of a global network of professionals who drive social innovation, transformation, and political change. The salary will be based on industry norms commensurate with skill and experience.

Note: The time limitation May 2026 – Dec 2027 is based on funding commitments.

Application process: 

Please email your application to (ke-hr@ke.boell.org) with the subject line, Application: Programme Coordinator – Democratic Space.

Include a detailed CV indicating at least three reference persons and a short motivation letter. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Published on 02^nd April 2026. The position remains open until filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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