Reimagining philanthropy through shifting power
For decades, global philanthropy has operated on a model that too often sidelines those most proximate to the challenges we face. Decisions are made far from the communities affected. Funding flows through layers of intermediaries. Power remains concentrated, and the potential of local leadership goes unrealised. The Proximate Fund was created to change that.
Adeso is the driving force behind the Proximate Fund, a bold new model of African-led, trust-based philanthropy that is building a new funding infrastructure through locally governed investment hubs that channel capital directly to proximate organisations and leaders. It is not just a financing mechanism but a platform to transform how philanthropy works, centred on trust, rooted in equity, and built on shared ownership.
Launching in three pilot countries, the Fund is a collaborative initiative that aims to serve as a scalable blueprint for community-led financing across the continent. It will support local civil society, grassroots organisations and social enterprises solving local problems with local wisdom, resourcing them not just with funds but with power, respect, and autonomy.
We are now seeking a visionary and entrepreneurial Managing Director to lead the Proximate Fund through its launch and first phase of growth. This is a rare opportunity to turn a transformative idea into a fully operational reality.
As the inaugural Managing Director (MD), you will shape and lead the Proximate Fund from the ground up. This is a rare opportunity to turn a bold vision into an operational reality, designing the Fund’s strategy, launching pilot programs, mobilising resources, and cultivating a vibrant ecosystem of funders, community leaders, and partners.
The MD will operate at the intersection of philanthropy, systems-change, and proximate leadership. We are seeking a builder-leader-operator, someone who thrives in ambiguity, navigates complex systems with clarity, and moves decisively from concept to execution. This person must be able to co-create bold strategies and lead the daily work of implementation, from designing financial tools to convening local partners and managing workflows.
If you have launched or scaled impact-driven ventures and want to reimagine how funding flows in Africa, this role offers the chance to leave a lasting mark. It is ideal for a seasoned, entrepreneurial leader deeply connected to the African continent and ready to redefine philanthropy by affirming local vision and ownership.
Leadership of the Proximate Fund is where community-led development meets structural transformation. It is where strategy, courage, and solidarity come together to build something that lasts. If you are a bold, values-driven leader committed to shifting power, resourcing proximity, and building lasting systems change in Africa, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply
The location of the role is Nairobi, Kenya. A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate. This is a full-time position.
The deadline for applications is 9:00am Monday July 28th 2025. The refence cose for this role is 7951
The location of the role is Nairobi, Kenya. A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate. This is a full-time position.
Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview with the Selection Panel at Adeso in August. If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
Perrett Laver believes that excellence will be achieved through recognising the value of every individual. A broad range of perspectives, backgrounds and opinions amongst our global community of colleagues is crucial in maintaining our culture of openness, intellectual curiosity, and creativity. We take an active role in supporting under-represented communities and groups in becoming better and more fairly represented in the leadership of all organisations. We also know that diverse and inclusive teams have a positive impact on our ability to identify, engage and secure candidates from these groups.
Our commitment to inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, identity, and experience drives us every day – for clients, for candidate identification and in the recruitment, development and retention of colleagues.
To ensure inclusion on the basis of age, disability, ethnic or national origin, family circumstance, gender, gender identity, marital status, nationality, political or religious beliefs, race, socioeconomic background, sexual orientation, we would like to specifically invite applications from under-represented groups.
To confidentially get in touch about this role, or for advice on your application please email, Isabela Betoret on Isabela.betoret@perrettlaver.com.
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