Hivos Program Officer 2026: Join EU SWITCH Green Program & Accelerate Your Sustainability Career

If you’re passionate about sustainability, green economies, and development work in Africa, this opportunity with Hivos could be your next big career move. The organization is currently seeking a Program Officer to support the ambitious EU SWITCH Kenya Green program, a transformative initiative aimed at accelerating Kenya’s transition to a circular and inclusive green economy.

Based in Nairobi, this full-time role offers a unique chance to work at the intersection of environmental sustainability, economic development, and social impact. With the application deadline set for March 31, 2026, interested candidates should act quickly.

About Hivos

Hivos is a globally recognized organization driven by humanist values. It works across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East to promote just, inclusive, and life-sustaining societies. Its work focuses on three key impact areas: civic rights in a digital age, gender equality and inclusion, and climate justice.

By collaborating with local communities, governments, and private sector partners, Hivos helps create systems that empower people and promote equal access to opportunities and resources.

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About the EU SWITCH Kenya Green Program

The EU SWITCH Kenya Green program builds on the success of the earlier EU SWITCH Africa Green initiative (2020–2023). Backed by a €5 million investment from the European Commission, this program is designed to fast-track Kenya’s transition toward a circular, inclusive, and sustainable economy.

The initiative focuses on:

• Supporting MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises)
• Expanding access to green financing
• Promoting sustainable consumption and production
• Creating green jobs
• Strengthening circular value chains

It operates across eight counties, including Nairobi, Kiambu, Nakuru, Machakos, Makueni, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale. The program is delivered through a consortium that includes Hivos, KCB Foundation, KEPSA, SOMO, and USIU-A—bringing together diverse expertise to drive systemic change.

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Role Overview: Program Officer

The Program Officer will report directly to the Program Manager and play a central role in supporting the implementation of program activities. This includes coordinating operations, ensuring compliance, managing documentation, and maintaining communication with stakeholders and partners.

This is a dynamic position suited for professionals who are organized, proactive, and passionate about sustainability and development work.

Key Responsibilities

1. Program Implementation

The Program Officer will contribute to the planning and execution of program activities. This includes supporting advocacy efforts at both national and county levels, ensuring that sustainability policies are effectively promoted.

You’ll also assist with communication strategies—helping to produce articles, blogs, and other content that highlight the program’s impact. Event coordination, campaign planning, and budget tracking are also key parts of this role.

2. Grant Management

A major component of the role involves supporting grant-making processes. This includes maintaining relationships with program partners, tracking deliverables, and ensuring timely communication of updates and deadlines.

You’ll also assist in disbursing funds, ensuring all documentation is accurate and compliant with donor requirements. Additionally, you’ll contribute to Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) processes by consolidating data and documenting insights.

3. Filing and Documentation

Strong organizational skills are essential, as the Program Officer will manage digital records and ensure all documents are properly filed and accessible. This includes contracts, reports, financial records, and correspondence.

You’ll also support audit preparation and ensure compliance with both internal and donor requirements.

Requirements and Qualifications

To qualify for this role, candidates should have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, environmental studies, development studies, public policy, or a related field
• A Master’s degree (advantageous but not required)
• Certifications in project management, MEL, or grant management (desirable)

Experience

• At least 4–5 years of experience in program management or project coordination
• Experience working in NGOs or development organizations is highly preferred
• Familiarity with green or circular economy concepts and MSME ecosystems

Skills

• Strong communication and writing abilities
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills
• Proficiency in MS Office and project management tools
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
• Ability to track budgets, deadlines, and deliverables

Competencies

• High integrity and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and proactively
• Strong relationship-building skills
• Commitment to gender equality, inclusion, and sustainability
• Comfort working in multicultural environments

Why This Role Matters

This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to contribute to a transformative movement toward sustainability in Africa. The EU SWITCH Kenya Green program is helping reshape how businesses operate, how resources are used, and how economies grow.

By supporting MSMEs and enabling access to green finance, the program directly contributes to:

• Job creation
• Environmental conservation
• Inclusive economic growth

As a Program Officer, your work will have a tangible impact on communities, businesses, and the environment.

Work Environment and Culture

Hivos is known for its inclusive and diverse workplace culture. The organization values integrity, innovation, and collaboration, and actively encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Employees benefit from:

• A multicultural work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Engagement in meaningful, mission-driven work

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their applications before March 31, 2026. Priority will be given to Kenyan nationals, as the program is locally focused.

To apply, visit the official Hivos careers page and complete the application process through their recruitment system.

Final Thoughts

The Program Officer role at Hivos offers a rare chance to be part of a high-impact initiative that is shaping the future of sustainable development in Kenya. With a strong focus on green innovation, inclusive growth, and systemic change, this position is ideal for professionals looking to make a difference while advancing their careers.

If you have the skills, experience, and passion for sustainability and development, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.