Cenfri is looking for an Engagement Manager to manage economic development and sustainable finance projects. As part of our management team, you will lead projects, teams and portfolios of impact research and technical assistance across our thematic areas to help inform public, private and development partner decisions and contribute to positive change.

Role summary

Engagement managers at Cenfri are expected to manage teams to deliver existing projects and develop new areas of work and opportunities that relate to their interests and capabilities. As an Engagement Manager you would:

• Design and manage research and technical assistance projects
• Engage with stakeholders and clients (including building new relationships)
• Develop and manage teams to ensure delivery of project or programme objectives and professional development of team members
• Contribute to developing (and landing) new business
• Deepen your own areas of expertise as a credible thought leader
• Act as an ambassador for Cenfri’s values and support the achievement of our strategic objectives
• Travel domestically and globally to implement projects and engage partners

Requirements

Who you are:

• You are a curious and creative thinker who likes to solve problems based on evidence and an understanding of systems.
• You enjoy managing complex projects that deliver on objectives within budget, deadlines and client expectations.
• Being highly collaborative, you appreciate and learn from the perspectives of those who have different backgrounds and skills.
• You are excited by the opportunity to develop the skills of junior team members.
• You enjoy crafting persuasive narratives in written and verbal form.
• You want to strengthen the business in support of our vision, creating opportunities for future impact founded on trusted networks and quality work.

Qualifications and experience

You have:

• A minimum of five years’ relevant experience in sustainable finance, financial inclusion, economic development, digital transformation or a related field
• A Master’s degree or similar qualification in economics, law, policy, development or related areas (some economics or legal experience required)
• Excellent analytical as well as verbal and written communication skills
• Experience in project management including proposal development, budgeting, resource management and talent management
• Experience in managing small teams
• Demonstrated ability to work flexibly and efficiently, exercising a balance between research rigour, impact and nimble project management
• Fluency in French will be an advantage, but not a requirement
• Experience working in a consulting environment preferred, but not a prerequisite

Why Cenfri?

Join a dynamic team committed to impact, with opportunities for growth and exposure to cutting-edge projects. We value collaboration, innovation, and creating meaningful change in emerging markets.

Location

Given the extent of teamwork, we prefer a candidate based in our hybrid Cape Town office environment, although some virtual and flexible work is feasible. We are open to discussing remote working or flexible hours with the right candidate.

Application instructions

If you identify with our values, are excited about impactful research and would like to contribute to our success, we would love to hear from you.

Closing Date: 7 November 2025

Click here to apply.