Program Manager

Job Description

New Energy Nexus (NEX) is an international organization that strives towards a 100% clean energy economy for 100% of the population. It does this with a laser focus on diverse entrepreneurs, supporting them with accelerators, funds, skills, and networks they need to thrive. NEX has accelerated 1,500+ startups, empowered over 10,400+ entrepreneurs, and mobilized over US$4.7 billion in investment. Since its founding in California in 2004, NEX now operates programs or advisory services in Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand, the UAE, Uganda, the USA (California and New York), and Vietnam.

Africa is a key growth region for New Energy Nexus, and Nigeria-Africa's largest economy and one of its most dynamic energy markets-is central to our mission. We are expanding our presence in Nigeria to support clean energy entrepreneurs, strengthen the renewable energy workforce, and build a thriving ecosystem that addresses energy access, climate resilience, and economic inclusion.

About the Role

Are you passionate about clean energy, entrepreneurship, and building systems that create lasting impact? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments where you can shape strategy while executing on the ground?

As Program Manager for Nigeria, you will play a leadership role in designing and delivering high-impact clean energy programs that support startups, build workforce skills, and strengthen Nigeria's clean energy ecosystem. Including working with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and supporting them to become more resilient to climate shocks, contributing to the safeguarding of livelihoods, resilience of local economies, and reduction in climate-related losses. You will work closely with local partners, entrepreneurs, funders, and government stakeholders, while collaborating with a global New Energy Nexus team.

This role offers a unique opportunity to build and scale programs tailored to Nigeria's energy challenges and opportunities - while contributing to a global mission to accelerate the clean energy transition.

Role & Responsibilities

Program Design & Implementation - Supporting Clean Energy Entrepreneurs

• Lead the design, launch, and implementation of clean energy startup incubation and acceleration programs in Nigeria, leveraging New Energy Nexus' global tools and best practices.
• Adapt programs to local market needs, ensuring relevance for Nigerian entrepreneurs and startups.
• Design and deliver workshops, bootcamps, and training sessions that strengthen founders' technical, business, and leadership capabilities.
• Identify, engage, and manage mentors, industry experts, investors, and ecosystem partners to support startup growth.
• Oversee program timelines, budgets, reporting, and performance metrics to ensure high-quality delivery and donor compliance.
• Support communications and outreach efforts to attract strong founders and showcase program impact.

Clean Energy Skills & Workforce Development

• Develop and implement initiatives to strengthen Nigeria's clean energy workforce, including solar installers, technicians, and project developers.
• Expand and localize New Energy Nexus' clean energy training platforms and curricula for the Nigerian context.
• Build partnerships with technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions to deliver practical, hands-on learning.
• Engage with industry associations, private sector actors, and policymakers to align training programs with market demand.

Partnerships, Ecosystem Building & Representation

• Cultivate and manage relationships with funders, foundations, corporates, government agencies, and implementing partners.
• Represent New Energy Nexus at industry events, stakeholder meetings, and policy discussions in Nigeria.
• Build and nurture a strong network of clean energy entrepreneurs, professionals, and ecosystem actors.
• Monitor trends, policies, and market developments in Nigeria's energy sector to inform program strategy and growth opportunities.
• Support fundraising and resource mobilization efforts by contributing to concept development, donor engagement, and proposal development to grow and diversify the program portfolio in Nigeria.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Strong passion for entrepreneurship, sustainability, and clean energy access.
• Proven experience in program and project management, with the ability to manage complex initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
• At least 4 years of relevant experience in one or more of the following:
  • Startup accelerators or entrepreneur support organizations
  • Renewable energy or energy access sector
  • Innovation, market development, or ecosystem-building programs
• Highly proactive and self-directed, with the ability to work independently while collaborating with an international team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (local language proficiency is an advantage).

Preferred Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of Nigeria's clean energy or energy access sector.
• Experience working with startups, investors, incubators, or accelerators.
• Prior entrepreneurship experience is an asset.
• Background in consulting, business strategy, or market development.
• Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and resilience in challenging environments.
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities.

Benefits

What We Offer

• The opportunity to build and lead impactful clean energy programs from the ground up in Nigeria.
• A high-impact role within a fast-growing global organization shaping the future of energy.
• A collaborative and supportive international team with opportunities for learning and cross-country engagement.
• Competitive compensation aligned with local market standards.
• A one-year contract with the possibility of extension based on performance.

How to Apply

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible

• Submit your resume, cover letter by clicking the "APPLY FOR THIS JOB" button to begin your application.
• Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until filled and only short-listed candidates will be notified.

New Energy Nexus is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, citizenship status, disability status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression of an otherwise qualified individual, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law. New Energy Nexus hires and promotes individuals on the basis of their qualifications for the job to be filled. We strongly encourage diverse applicants to apply.