Join the U‑Tena Team: Senior Program Officer, U‑Tena Youth Organization
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
About U‑Tena Youth Organization
U‑Tena Youth Organization is a Kenyan non‑governmental organization founded in 2006 by a group of passionate youth leaders in the Mukuru slums of Nairobi. Since 2007, our reach has expanded to the entirety of Nairobi County, and we continue to work in informal settlements such as Mukuru, Korogocho, Mathare, Soweto, Dagoretti, Kamukunji, and Kibra.
Our intervention focuses on three key areas: Health, Education, and Livelihoods. Through four core programs—Youth Mentorship and Development, Organizational Development and Strengthening, Marketing and Publicity, and Resource Mobilization for Sustainability—we empower young people to navigate critical life transitions.
Our vision is “Empowering and developing youths to realize their potential,” and our mission is “To provide development opportunities by promoting healthy living, education, livelihood, and social responsibility.”
Job Title: Senior Program Officer
About the Role
The Senior Program Officer will be responsible for the leadership, strategic direction, and operational management of the organization. The Senior Program Officer works closely with the executive director, staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners to advance the organization’s mission, ensure programmatic excellence, and secure long‑term sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
· Strategic Leadership: Develop, implement, and periodically review the organization’s strategic plan in alignment with its vision, mission, and four strategic objectives.
· Program Oversight: Ensure the effective delivery, quality, and impact of all core programs (Health, Education, Livelihoods), including performing arts, mentorship, HIV testing, and financial independence initiatives.
· Resource Mobilization & Fundraising: Lead fundraising initiatives, cultivate relationships with local and international donors, develop grant proposals, and secure funding for organizational growth and sustainability.
· Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and reporting; ensure compliance with statutory regulations and donor requirements.
· Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain partnerships with government ministries, NGOs, private sector partners, community groups, and international organizations; represent U‑Tena at meetings, conferences, and public events.
· Team Management: Lead, mentor, and manage a growing team of staff and volunteers, fostering a positive, collaborative, and innovative work environment.
· Governance & Compliance: Provide regular reports and updates to the Board of Senior Program Officers; ensure the organization meets all legal and regulatory requirements in Kenya.
Qualifications & Experience
· A Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Business Administration, Non‑profit Management, or a related field (a Master’s degree is highly desirable).
· A minimum of 5–10 years of progressive leadership experience in the non‑profit sector, preferably within youth development, community health, or education programs.
· Proven track record in resource mobilization, donor relations, and grant management (including proposal writing, budgeting, and donor reporting).
· Strong understanding of corporate governance principles and managerial best practices.
· Exceptional communication (oral and written) and public speaking skills.
· Demonstrated ability to work effectively in informal settlement contexts and with diverse stakeholders, including youth, government agencies, and international partners.
· Financial literacy to manage budgets and financial reporting.
Personal Attributes
· Passion for youth empowerment and community development.
· Strategic thinker with strong problem‑solving abilities.
· High level of integrity, professionalism, and social justice orientation.
· Ability to work independently and lead a team in a dynamic, resource‑constrained environment.
What We Offer
· A leadership role with meaningful impact on the lives of thousands of young people in Nairobi.
· Opportunity to shape organizational strategy and growth.
· Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
· Professional development opportunities.
· A collaborative and mission‑driven work environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
1. A cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining your interest, relevant experience, and specific skills that align with this role.
2. A current CV/resume with three professional referees.
Please send your application to: [email protected]
Subject Line: Application for Senior Program Officer Position – [Your Full Name]
Application Deadline: 3rd July 2026 (or earlier if a suitable candidate is found. Candidates will be short listed on rolling basis)
U‑Tena Youth Organization is an equal‑opportunity employer. Candidate will not be required to make any payment at any stage of recruitment.
U-Tena Youth Organization
P. O. Box 2395-00200
3rd Floor, Loipi House
Lunga Lunga Road,
Nairobi Kenya
Web: www.u-tena.org
X: @UnganoTena; FB: U-Tena
About U‑Tena Youth Organization
U‑Tena Youth Organization is a Kenyan non‑governmental organization founded in 2006 by a group of passionate youth leaders in the Mukuru slums of Nairobi. Since 2007, our reach has expanded to the entirety of Nairobi County, and we continue to work in informal settlements such as Mukuru, Korogocho, Mathare, Soweto, Dagoretti, Kamukunji, and Kibra.
Our intervention focuses on three key areas: Health, Education, and Livelihoods. Through four core programs—Youth Mentorship and Development, Organizational Development and Strengthening, Marketing and Publicity, and Resource Mobilization for Sustainability—we empower young people to navigate critical life transitions.
Our vision is “Empowering and developing youths to realize their potential,” and our mission is “To provide development opportunities by promoting healthy living, education, livelihood, and social responsibility.”
Job Title: Senior Program Officer
About the Role
The Senior Program Officer will be responsible for the leadership, strategic direction, and operational management of the organization. The Senior Program Officer works closely with the executive director, staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners to advance the organization’s mission, ensure programmatic excellence, and secure long‑term sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
· Strategic Leadership: Develop, implement, and periodically review the organization’s strategic plan in alignment with its vision, mission, and four strategic objectives.
· Program Oversight: Ensure the effective delivery, quality, and impact of all core programs (Health, Education, Livelihoods), including performing arts, mentorship, HIV testing, and financial independence initiatives.
· Resource Mobilization & Fundraising: Lead fundraising initiatives, cultivate relationships with local and international donors, develop grant proposals, and secure funding for organizational growth and sustainability.
· Financial Management: Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and reporting; ensure compliance with statutory regulations and donor requirements.
· Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain partnerships with government ministries, NGOs, private sector partners, community groups, and international organizations; represent U‑Tena at meetings, conferences, and public events.
· Team Management: Lead, mentor, and manage a growing team of staff and volunteers, fostering a positive, collaborative, and innovative work environment.
· Governance & Compliance: Provide regular reports and updates to the Board of Senior Program Officers; ensure the organization meets all legal and regulatory requirements in Kenya.
Qualifications & Experience
· A Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Business Administration, Non‑profit Management, or a related field (a Master’s degree is highly desirable).
· A minimum of 5–10 years of progressive leadership experience in the non‑profit sector, preferably within youth development, community health, or education programs.
· Proven track record in resource mobilization, donor relations, and grant management (including proposal writing, budgeting, and donor reporting).
· Strong understanding of corporate governance principles and managerial best practices.
· Exceptional communication (oral and written) and public speaking skills.
· Demonstrated ability to work effectively in informal settlement contexts and with diverse stakeholders, including youth, government agencies, and international partners.
· Financial literacy to manage budgets and financial reporting.
Personal Attributes
· Passion for youth empowerment and community development.
· Strategic thinker with strong problem‑solving abilities.
· High level of integrity, professionalism, and social justice orientation.
· Ability to work independently and lead a team in a dynamic, resource‑constrained environment.
What We Offer
· A leadership role with meaningful impact on the lives of thousands of young people in Nairobi.
· Opportunity to shape organizational strategy and growth.
· Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
· Professional development opportunities.
· A collaborative and mission‑driven work environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
1. A cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining your interest, relevant experience, and specific skills that align with this role.
2. A current CV/resume with three professional referees.
Please send your application to: [email protected]
Subject Line: Application for Senior Program Officer Position – [Your Full Name]
Application Deadline: 3rd July 2026 (or earlier if a suitable candidate is found. Candidates will be short listed on rolling basis)
U‑Tena Youth Organization is an equal‑opportunity employer. Candidate will not be required to make any payment at any stage of recruitment.
U-Tena Youth Organization
P. O. Box 2395-00200
3rd Floor, Loipi House
Lunga Lunga Road,
Nairobi Kenya
Web: www.u-tena.org
X: @UnganoTena; FB: U-Tena
Why Volunteer with U-Tena?
By volunteering with U-Tena Youth Organization, you will be able to directly change the lives of youth living in the slum areas of Nairobi, such as Mukuru, Mathare, Korogocho, Kibera, and many others. U-Tena volunteers raise awareness of family planning, contraception, life planning, and responsible recreation through the use of youth friendly services and sex and reproductive rights campaigns.
Volunteers also spread awareness of Sexual Transmitted Diseases and Non Communicable Diseases among youth. For example, volunteers directly contribute to the UNAIDS 90-90-90 agenda. Through this agenda, you will aid in finding new HIV testers, putting 90% of HIV reactive clients into treatment, and suppressing HIV in those who are positive by 90%.
Partners also carry out corporate social responsibility and corporate social investment. You will get the opportunity to be mentored, actualize your livelihood, and gain critical social entrepreneurship skills. Overall, by volunteering with U-Tena, you will not only make a difference in the youth of Nairobi, but also expand your own skills and networks.
Volunteers also spread awareness of Sexual Transmitted Diseases and Non Communicable Diseases among youth. For example, volunteers directly contribute to the UNAIDS 90-90-90 agenda. Through this agenda, you will aid in finding new HIV testers, putting 90% of HIV reactive clients into treatment, and suppressing HIV in those who are positive by 90%.
Partners also carry out corporate social responsibility and corporate social investment. You will get the opportunity to be mentored, actualize your livelihood, and gain critical social entrepreneurship skills. Overall, by volunteering with U-Tena, you will not only make a difference in the youth of Nairobi, but also expand your own skills and networks.
If you are interested in volunteering with U-Tena, contact us on:
U-Tena Youth Organization
P. O. Box 2395-00200
Loipi House, Fourth Floor D7
Lunga Lunga Road, Industrial Area Nairobi Kenya,
Phone: +254 724842459
Mail: [email protected] or [email protected] or [email protected]
U-Tena Youth Organization
P. O. Box 2395-00200
Loipi House, Fourth Floor D7
Lunga Lunga Road, Industrial Area Nairobi Kenya,
Phone: +254 724842459
Mail: [email protected] or [email protected] or [email protected]