Director of Partnerships & Services

Worldreader gets families reading through BookSmart, an equitable, subscription-free, often data-free app that fosters reading routines with culturally representative storybooks and play-based activities for young children. Since 2010, we've delivered 80+ million digital books and reached 22+ million readers in 100 countries, giving children the pre-literacy and social-emotional skills they need to start school and succeed.

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Director of Partnerships & Services leads the growth, delivery, and impact of Worldreader's digital reading products across Kenya. This role blends product strategy, market growth, partnerships, and impact leadership, ensuring more children read, learn, and succeed. The role combines strategic planning with direct, on-the-ground involvement in programs and partner activities, including regular community events.

This role is ideal for a mission-driven, product-oriented leader who thrives at the intersection of innovation and social change.

Responsibilities

Large-Scale Impact

• Design and lead Kenya market strategy for BookSmart with clear growth, impact, and sustainability targets aligned with global goals.
  
• Personally lead and take part in field programs, activations, and community events — including weekends — to drive engagement and reach.
  
• Create a data-informed, innovative culture, ensuring insights from Kenya continuously shape global product direction.
  
• Lead and mentor a Kenya-based team, cultivating high-performance and inclusivity.
  
• Champion user, partner, and market insights into the product office.
  

Leadership & Organization

• Represent Worldreader in Kenya, engaging with government and regulatory bodies.
  
• Manage operating plans and budgets, ensuring strong financial and operational stewardship.
  
• Ensure compliance with all legal and governance requirements.
  
• Recruit, develop, and inspire a talented local team.
  

Partnerships & Representation

• Build high-value partnerships across education, FMCG, health, finance, telecom, and corporate innovation sectors.
  
• Deepen relationships with donors, UN agencies, NGOs, government leaders, and private sector partners.
  
• Amplify storytelling, engagement, and visibility.
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree preferred, in Business Administration, Communications, Marketing, or Health.
  
• 7 to 10 years of leadership, management, or business development experience across nonprofits, social enterprise, or corporate innovation.
  
• Track record in product-led growth, partnerships, or program leadership, ideally including experience scaling a product or program.
  
• Demonstrated success in raising funds or forming high-impact partnerships.
  
• Genuine interest in early childhood development and family engagement.
  
• Comfortable working hands-on, including direct involvement in field programs and events outside standard business hours.
  
• Experience in digital products or emerging markets is an advantage.