Job Description
About Village Solar
Village Solar is a solar energy distribution and entrepreneurship initiative that empowers women in rural Malawi by creating income-generating opportunities and providing access to clean energy solutions. The program equips women with the skills and tools they need to distribute affordable solar products to families without reliable electricity, directly addressing energy challenges in underserved rural areas.
Role Description
Village Solar is seeking an Enterprise Development Associate to help recruit, train, and support a growing network of women clean energy entrepreneurs. As a key part of our team, you will assist these women in growing their small businesses, improving their entrepreneurial skills, and expanding the reach of clean energy solutions in their communities.
You will provide coaching, guidance, and support to ensure the success of these women entrepreneurs, helping them overcome business challenges and achieve sustainable growth. This position is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about entrepreneurship and skills development, community development, women’s empowerment, and clean energy. The ideal candidate for this role must have a valid motorcycle driving license and the ability to travel frequently to rural areas.
Responsibilities
● Actively seek out and onboard new women entrepreneurs, contributing to the growth of a strong rural distribution network for clean energy solutions.
● Provide training to new and existing women entrepreneurs on business management, sales techniques, product knowledge, and customer service.
● Mentor and support women entrepreneurs to overcome business challenges, set goals, and expand their businesses.
● Work with entrepreneurs to develop effective sales strategies, assist with market penetration, and identify new customer segments.
● Help entrepreneurs improve their sales performance and meet revenue targets.
● Coordinate the distribution of solar products to entrepreneurs, ensuring timely deliveries and proper inventory management.
● Maintain records of sales, inventory, and key performance metrics for entrepreneurs.
● Provide regular updates on progress and challenges, using data to help improve business strategies.
● Organize community-based events, such as product demonstrations, information sessions, and awareness campaigns.
● Build partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community leaders to increase visibility and expand the reach of Village Solar’s program.
● Identify new opportunities for products or services in the market and help entrepreneurs expand their businesses.
● Handle administrative duties related to product orders, logistics, and maintaining records of product distribution and sales.
Qualifications
Education:
● Minimum of a diploma in sales/marketing, business administration, entrepreneurship, or a related field is preferred.
● A certificate in a related field, along with significant practical experience, will be considered.
Skills & Experience:
● At least 1-2 years of experience in community outreach, sales, or business development.
● Experience working with rural livelihood improvement programs or in rural settings is
highly desirable.
● Strong understanding of business development, entrepreneurship, and sales processes.
● Familiarity with basic financial management and reporting.
● Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
● Strong presentation and public speaking skills communicate with the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders and community members in both English and Chichewa.
Key Qualities:
● A strong “can do” attitude with an entrepreneurial mindset.
● Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
● Flexibility to adapt to the dynamic environment of a startup.
● A proactive attitude with a strong passion for empowering disadvantaged and marginalized communities, and supporting their sustainable growth
● A deep respect for rural community norms is essential in this role.The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of local rural customs and traditions and be able to integrate these cultural values into their work.
How to apply
To apply, please complete the Google Form using the link provided below. Ensure that all required fields are filled out with your personal details. You will need to provide the contact information for 3 referees, including their full name, address, phone number, and email.
Please upload your resume and cover letter as a single file (in either PDF or Word format) in
the designated section.
You can access the form here: https://forms.gle/B5KwdsFQkn7fXwH57
Application Deadline: 29th December 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.Interviews will be conducted between 16th January and 19th January 2025.
The successful candidate must be available to start work by 1st February 2025.
Thank you for your interest in the position!