Job Description
Position: Sustainable Agriculture Program Manager
Company: Olam International
Location: Busia, Kenya
Experience: 5-7 years
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Agribusiness
Department: Sustainable Development
Salary: SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Olam International is a leading global agribusiness and food solutions provider with a strong footprint across Africa, including Kenya. With a commitment to responsible sourcing, innovative farming practices, and community empowerment, Olam drives sustainable growth for farmers, consumers, and shareholders alike. The company’s operations in Kenya span from cocoa and coffee to staple crops such as maize and beans, making it a pivotal player in the nation’s agricultural landscape. As part of its vision to create a more resilient food system, Olam continuously invests in cutting‑edge technology, climate‑smart agriculture, and capacity‑building initiatives that generate high‑impact Kenya Jobs and foster long‑term economic development.
Job Overview
The Sustainable Agriculture Program Manager will lead Olam’s flagship sustainability initiatives in Busia County, focusing on climate‑adaptive farming, soil health improvement, and farmer livelihood enhancement. Reporting to the Regional Director of Sustainable Development, the role will coordinate cross‑functional teams, manage project budgets, and ensure alignment with Olam’s global ESG targets. This position offers a unique platform to influence policy, drive innovation, and deliver measurable outcomes that resonate with Jobs in Kenya and broader Career Opportunities in Kenya. For more information about Olam and its impact, visit Kenya Job Search.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and monitor sustainable agriculture projects that increase yield while reducing environmental impact.
- Collaborate with local farmer cooperatives, NGOs, and government agencies to align program objectives with national agricultural policies.
- Develop and deliver training modules on climate‑smart practices, precision farming, and post‑harvest management.
- Analyze project data, generate performance reports, and present findings to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
- Manage project budgets, procurement processes, and resource allocation to ensure cost‑effective delivery.
- Identify funding opportunities, prepare grant proposals, and maintain relationships with development partners.
- Champion Olam’s sustainability narrative through community outreach, media engagement, and stakeholder workshops.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of sustainable farming techniques, agro‑ecology, and climate‑resilient crop management.
- Excellent project management abilities with a proven track record of delivering complex programs on time and within budget.
- Effective communication and facilitation skills for diverse stakeholder groups.
- Proficiency in data analysis tools and GIS mapping for agricultural monitoring.
- Strategic thinking with the ability to translate global ESG goals into local actions.
- Fluency in English and Swahili; additional local languages are a plus.
Education
A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, Sustainable Development, or a related discipline is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in Project Management, Agronomy, or Climate Change are highly desirable.
Experience
Applicants should possess 5‑7 years of relevant experience in agricultural program management, preferably within large agribusinesses, NGOs, or international development agencies. Demonstrated experience in Busia County or the broader Western Kenya region will be considered an advantage.
Salary
The role offers a competitive salary range of SSP 150,000 to 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with performance‑based incentives.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Annual paid leave and sick leave in line with Kenyan labor law.
- Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
- Employee assistance program supporting work‑life balance.
Training
- On‑boarding program covering Olam’s sustainability framework and operational standards.
- Continuous learning modules on advanced agronomy, data analytics, and climate adaptation.
- Leadership development workshops to prepare for future managerial roles.
- Mentorship pairing with senior sustainability experts across Olam’s global network.
Working Environment
The position is based in Busia’s vibrant agricultural hub, offering a blend of field‑based activities and office work at Olam’s regional headquarters. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that values innovation, diversity, and environmental stewardship, creating a supportive atmosphere for professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an online application through the Olam Careers portal, attaching a tailored CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation. Applications will be screened on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment in Busia.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Olam International is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Our hiring practices reflect our dedication to fairness, ensuring that every applicant receives unbiased consideration for Employment in Kenya.