Community Engagement Associate – MPower Ventures AG

Job Description

MPower Ventures, a pan-African venture backed start-up in the clean energy space (www.mpower.africa), is looking for an energetic new Head of Sales in Zambia. Together with our partners, MPower has already supplied thousands of customers with its solar systems. Our products range from solar home systems with matching appliances such as TVs, fans and refrigerators to productive use appliances and large systems for SMEs and medium-income class households . Our portfolio has recently been complemented with electric powered vehicles, making us one of the most innovative clean energy providers in Zambia.
To increase its footprint in Zambia, MPower is currently expanding its actions to power rural communities and businesses with the innovative business model of the Energy Hubs. This is where the Community Engagement Associate comes in. The role is crucial for establishing and maintaining strong relationships with rural communities in Southern and potentially Western Province, a key factor in the success of the Energy Hubs initiative. To succeed in this role, you will have to engage with the local communities; this requires deep involvement and understanding of the local context as well as how the project and the business model operate. Your ability to convert community members into longlife business partners and ensure that they keep their commitments is crucial for the project sustainability and success.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
1. Community Outreach and Engagement:
Conduct regular visits to rural communities to build relationships and gather feedback.
Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and focus group discussions.
Develop and research on needs from the community.
Collaborate with local leaders and stakeholders to ensure alignment with project goals.
Explain, discuss and sign agreements with the local community.

2. Supervision of Energy Hubs:
Conduct site visits to monitor the operations of Energy Hubs, ensuring compliance with standards.
Provide operational support to maintain infrastructure, equipment, and service quality.
Develop and identify products which can be stocked up
Report on the performance and challenges of Energy Hubs to inform continuous improvement.

3. Customer Relationship Management:
Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers and stakeholders.
Gather and analyze customer feedback to enhance service delivery.
Address customer inquiries and resolve issues promptly to maintain high satisfaction.

4. Sales and Marketing Support:
Support local sales and marketing efforts to promote MPower’s offerings.
Implement marketing campaigns to increase brand visibility and adoption of new services.
Monitor sales performance and provide strategic guidance to improve results.

Qualifications:
Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Development Studies, Marketing, Renewable Energy or a related field.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in project management, sales, marketing or community development.
Experience working in rural communities, familiarity with local dynamics and willingness to relocate to Monze or another town in the Southern Province of Zambia.
Demonstrable ability to ride a motorbike.
Proficiency in using data analysis, communication and reporting software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Meet).
Competencies:
Leadership: Ability to inspire and motivate teams, provide clear direction and manage performance effectively.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact with stakeholders at all levels.
Analytical Thinking: Strong analytical skills to interpret data and make informed decisions.
Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues, develop solutions, and implement corrective actions promptly.
Customer Centricity: Strong commitment to customer satisfaction and relationship management.
Community Engagement: Ability to engage with and build trust within local communities.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing environments and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

To Apply:
Prepare your CV or Resume (maximum 2 pages) and your cover letter (1 page) both in PDF formats;
Fill out the assessment form and upload your documents through this link.

Deadline: 30th August 2024