Primary Roles and Responsibilities: 

• Lead the strategic growth and direction of the Energy Access Portfolio, developing and executing business development plans in line with Palladium’s vision and growth strategy
• Design and deliver complex energy access projects across Kenya and the region, including rural electrification, mini-grids, solar home systems, productive uses of energy, and cross-sectoral integration (health, agriculture, education, digital inclusion, clean cooking)
• Advise governments, financial institutions, private sector companies, donors, and end users on strategy, policy, regulation, business operations, and access to finance
• Develop and manage multidisciplinary teams, recruiting, mentoring, and retaining talent to deliver outstanding results
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with key stakeholders, including national associations, government agencies, private sector innovators, and donors
• Lead business development efforts, identifying new opportunities, preparing proposals, and managing client relationships
• Ensure technical excellence and quality control across all deliverables, maintaining rigorous standards and driving innovation
• Represent Palladium as a thought leader at industry events, conferences, and in sector working groups
• Monitor market trends and policy developments to inform strategy and identify emerging opportunities
• Foster collaboration with other Palladium practices and global teams, leveraging cross-functional expertise and lessons learned

Essential Criteria:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field
• 12+ years of progressive experience in energy access, rural electrification, productive uses of energy, and cross-sectoral integration
• Proven track record of leadership and team building, with experience managing diverse, multidisciplinary teams
• Deep understanding of energy access technologies (mini-grids, solar home systems, grid extension), enabling environments, and business models
• Experience in policy and regulation, business acceleration, access to finance, and results-based finance design
• Strong executive presence and ability to build trusted relationships with partners, clients, donors, and investors
• Strong commercial acumen with experience in P&L management, proposal development, and client acquisition
• Existing relationships with key stakeholders in Kenya and the region (government, private sector, donors, associations)
• Multinational experience and ability to navigate diverse cultural and regulatory environments