Solutions Lead Consultant: SME Incubation and Acceleration Job at African Management Institute (AMI)

• The Solutions Lead will be responsible for leading the design and coordinating the development of the programming and support for the ManuTech Hub in Addis Ababa over the course of its first year. They will lead the design of bootcamp, incubation, and acceleration programmes, as well as outreach and engagement activities to build core partnerships with government, industry, finance partners and others in support of growth planning for the Hub.

Solution Development & Innovation

• Lead the design of scalable, impactful startup and business growth solutions tailored to African entrepreneurs in the Manufacturing Technology sector. Supporting startups at various growth stages through structured mentorship, training, and business development initiatives.
• Apply agile methodologies to test, iterate, and refine programme designs based on user feedback and real-world application.
• Develop and integrate blended learning approaches, including digital platforms, coaching, peer learning, and toolkits.

Programme Design & Implementation

• Work closely with internal teams to develop structured yet flexible programmatic models that support different business growth stages.
• Support the identification and consultation with technical and industry experts to build a relevant design and ecosystem of support for Manufacturing Tech SMEs.
• Collaborate with partners, funders, and ecosystem stakeholders to ensure programme alignment with market needs.
• Drive continuous improvement and ensure programmes deliver measurable impact on business performance and growth (with specific targets from growing key segments).

Client & Partner Engagement

• Foster ecosystem collaboration by connecting ManuTech entrepreneurs with investors, industry experts, and development partners to drive sustainable business growth 
• Outreach and Engagement Activities: Expanding the Hub’s impact by connecting with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and stakeholders across Africa. 
• Manage key relationships with clients, funders, and partners to co-create solutions that build the Hubs strategic importance and deliver solutions to key SME growth needs.

Requirements

Who You Are

• We are looking for an impact-driven, solutions-oriented leader with a passion for African entrepreneurship.

Required Skills & Experience

• Deep technical expertise in African business growth, acceleration, or incubation.
• Proven experience in programme design, solution development, and agile implementation for business support initiatives.
• Strong ability to develop practical, scalable, and high-impact interventions for startups and SMEs.
• Client management experience, with the ability to engage and co-create with businesses, funders, and partners.
• Strong understanding of business development services, learning methodologies, and ecosystem engagement.
• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-growth environments, balancing strategic thinking with execution.