ACE Advisors is a women-owned and led independent advisory firm that is dedicated to promoting innovation for better development and brings a strategic cross-domain perspective with deep expertise in accelerating public sector delivery and private sector development. With this context, ACE believes startups are an essential part of the development process and we believe that startups have the potential to create jobs, leading to economic growth and social transformation. 

At ACE Advisors, we are dedicated to supporting startups by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and advisory services to thrive. We strive to create a vibrant startup ecosystem that fosters innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth. By leveraging our deep expertise and network, we aim to bridge the gap between startups, investors, and industry partners, creating opportunities for mutual growth and impact.

We seek a highly skilled Program Manager with a solid background in business advisory services and strong project management expertise. As the Program Manager, you will play a central role in leading our acceleration program with the overall responsibility of managing the center, including the development and implementation of the programs, recruitment, management of startups, and the provision of tailored support and other experiences that spur the growth and excitement of our program. We are looking for people who are willing to work hard and are passionate about making a difference to facilitate our startup program to help drive the startup's journey to success. 

The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and it is a full-time position that requires full commitment. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Operations Management: Provide overall management of the program, including logistics, operations, resource allocation, and communications, to ensure quality and timely deliverables in a smooth and effective program execution;

• Project Leadership: Develop and implement strategies to promote and market our entrepreneurs and startup support program to attract top and high-potential startups to join the program;

• Business Analysis and Incubation support: Provide direct guidance and oversight, Mapping support areas and designing of relevant modules and implementing trainings to scale the startups, Targeting, evaluation, and selection process of entrepreneurs , Provide guidance and support to entrepreneurs in developing business plans, product roadmaps, commercialization strategies, and go-to-market strategies for their businesses, including market research, competitive analysis, and financial projections.

• Networking and Advocacy: Coordinate program-related events, resources, and technical information distribution to both internal and external stakeholders in the wider ecosystem;

• Stakeholder Engagement: Engage and manage relationships with various stakeholders including Entrepreneurs, Mentors, Advisors, industry leaders, partners, and investors. Effectively communicate project outreach efforts and success, ensuring clear and impactful communication; 

• Continuous Learning and Growth: Monitoring and analyzing performance and synthesizing and sharing learnings to enhance the team’s and entrepreneur’s skills and knowledge. Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies within business advisory and project management fields. 

Benefits:

• A competitive salary and benefit packages

• An opportunity to work with a dynamic and competitive team

• A chance to make a real impact on the startup ecosystem in Ethiopia

Direct supervisor: Managing Partner

Department: Investment Department

Job Grade: Senior-level (13 – 15+ Years experience)

Job Requirements:

• Master’s degree in international development, Economics, Statistics, or another relevant field; 

• 13+ years’ proven experience as a program coordinator or in a relevant position, with a track record of successful program management and business advisory services; 

• Experience working within the startup ecosystem which includes incubators, accelerators, and investment venture programs

• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to effectively analyze data, identify trends and patterns, and deliver actionable insights to make informed decisions for program improvement and strategic planning

• Passion for the startup ecosystem and entrepreneurship, displaying a comprehensive understanding of the needs, challenges, and opportunities faced by startups;

• Strong understanding of business development, fundraising, and leadership principles within the startup context

• Thrives in a fast-paced, ever-changing startup environment showing adaptability, resilience, and the ability to effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously

• Works collaboratively in a team-based environment, valuing teamwork and actively seeking and providing feedback to ensure continuous improvement and program success

• Self-motivated and action/solution-oriented, taking initiative and demonstrating a proactive approach to problem-solving and achieving program objectives

• Excellent time management and multitasking abilities, effectively prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines in a dynamic work environment

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills

How to Apply

• If you are a passionate professional with relevant experience, please submit your resume and cover letter for consideration at info@aceadvisors.org with the e-mail subject line ‘Application to Program Manager Position’.

• We are an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourage women to apply for this position and are committed to creating a workplace that is inclusive and supportive of all employees.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

We will accept and review applications on a rolling basis after the deadline if a suitable candidate has not been identified.