We are in the midst of a strategic and digital transformation program, modernizing our systems, data infrastructure, and ways of working to build the next generation of inclusive financial services. Our renewed leadership team is driving this change with a clear focus on growth, professionalism, and disciplined execution.
ASA International combines the social impact of microfinance with the governance, technology, and ambition of a listed commercial bank. We are building a culture that values innovation, accountability, and excellence — attracting leaders who want to shape a modern, scalable, and data-driven financial institution.
JOB PURPOSE
The Business Development Manager is responsible for driving ASA International Kenya Ltd's growth and sustainability through strategic partnerships, market expansion, and innovative financial solutions tailored to the needs of microfinance clients. The role will focus on identifying and pursuing business opportunities, enhancing the organization's competitive position, and ensuring the design of products and services that align with the company's mission of promoting financial inclusion among underserved communities.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Business Growth and Strategy
Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities for ASA Kenya.
Develop and implement revenue growth plans aligned with company goals.
In collaboration with Operation team, ensure the Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio remains below 5%.
Support the operations team in coming up with strategies on recovery process of Small Business Loans (SBL).
Collaborate with management to determine cost-effective approaches to pursue new business opportunities.
Maintain in-depth knowledge of business development practices, marketing trends, prospective clients, and the Kenyan microfinance sector.
Partnership Development
Build and maintain strategic relationships with key stakeholders, including regulators, government bodies, financial partners, and community organizations.
Collaborate with stakeholders to design and implement joint initiatives that benefit ASA clients and the company.
Identify and explore new markets across Kenya to expand ASA's footprint.
Develop strategies to enhance ASA's market share and customer penetration in targeted areas.
Product Development, Technology Assessment, and Optimization
Work with Operations, and IT teams to design and launch innovative financial products and services for low-income entrepreneurs.
Ensure all products meet client needs while adhering to regulatory requirements and ASA policies.
Provide market insights to guide product development and competitive positioning.
Assess technological needs and recommend digital solutions to improve efficiency, client service, and operational effectiveness.
Marketing and Advertising Strategy
Develop and oversee marketing campaigns to promote ASA Kenya's services.
Manage a sales pipeline and drive performance in SBL and SME segments.
Develop business and marketing plans in collaboration with internal teams to achieve revenue goals.
Support ASA Kenya's branding and communication initiatives, including media relations, advertising, and digital presence.
Conduct market research to identify new business opportunities for SMEs.
Prepare and manage the annual marketing budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
Team Leadership and Capacity Building
Provide continuous feedback and opportunities for professional growth.
Train and mentor Loan Officers (LOs) and Branch Managers (BMs) at least twice a month to improve productivity and client service delivery.
Customer Relationship Management
Develop strategies to increase client retention and enhance customer value.
Gather and analyze client feedback to improve products and services.
Train field teams on customer relationship management to strengthen client loyalty.
Supervise the client relationship management database to optimize customer interactions.
Compliance and Risk Management
Ensure all business development initiatives comply with Kenya's financial regulations and ASA International policies.
Identify potential risks in expansion and growth activities and propose mitigation measures.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting
Set and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for business development initiatives.
Prepare weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports on progress.
Conduct impact assessments to evaluate effectiveness of business development programs.
Visit at least 4 branches monthly, prioritizing SBL portfolio reviews, and ensure nationwide branch coverage within 10 months.
Coordinate and monitor the activities of Loan Officers (LOs).
Perform any other duties as assigned by management.
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE:
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in a business-related field from a recognized institution.
Minimum of five (5) years Banking Experience, three (3) of which MUST be in microfinance/banking industry with a proven track record of driving growth and success.
Knowledge in Sales and Marketing, credit risk management, credit lending, as well as relevant experience in the Banking sector will be an added advantage.
Proficiency in computers is mandatory.
Skills and Competencies
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills across senior leadership levels.
Excellent sourcing capability and familiarity with LinkedIn Recruiter and digital recruitment tools.
Organizational and project management skills with a high attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver under tight timelines.
Analytical mindset and ability to work with recruitment data and reporting tools.
Personal Attributes
Ability to analyze and interpret financial statements
Clear understanding of microfinance/banking industry is an added advantage.
Good interpersonal & communication skills with excellent customer service.
A team player with the drive to improve performance.
Persuasive with strong recognition skills,
Self-driven and possess the ability to work with minimum supervision
Ability to work independently under minimum supervision.
SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE WILL MEAN
Responsible for developing and implementing an annual business development strategy, monitoring performance through regular reports, and fostering strategic partnerships to drive growth in client base, loan portfolio, and revenue.
Ensures high customer satisfaction by addressing complaints promptly and promoting a customer-first culture.
Leads quality improvement initiatives to enhance loan portfolio performance, reduce bad debts, and improve operational efficiency.
Upholds ASA International Kenya's core values, promotes teamwork and compliance, and supports management in achieving overall business objectives.