Head – Research and Social Performance

Job description

Location                              :         Head Office, Lusaka, Zambia

Reports to                           :         CEO and Research and Social Performance Committee (RSPC) at BoD level

 About the Company

Agora Microfinance Zambia (AMZ) is a rural microfinance company that operates under a non-deposit microfinance license from the Bank of Zambia. Currently, the Company works with some 140,000 clients in all provinces of Zambia through 40 branches and a staff of 500. The Company aims to expand and strengthen its operations with a long-term goal of further national reach, strong financial and social performance, and overall contribution to the Zambian economy and society.

 Job Overview

The Head of Research and Social Performance will play a vital part in supporting the company in translating the mission and principles of AMZ into practice. This will involve, amongst others, the following main activities:

Strategic Leadership and Planning: Lead the department in line with AMZ mission, vision, strategic goals, client protection, and ESG policy; management activities include building annual work plans, budget, and a high-quality team

Manage and oversight ESG practices: Strengthen department systems and process of Social Performance (SP), Client Protection (CP), impact, governance and environmental practices at AMZ. Monitor, analyze, and report related performance both internal and to stakeholders, including shareholders, investors, and regulators, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and alignment with recognized ESG and impact standards

Research Implementation: Lead and coordinate the implementation of the research activities at client, non-clients, staff levels, and competition analysis to support evidence-based decision-making. Activities can include: (i) developing research methodologies; (ii) conducting desk research and literature review; (iii) managing data collection process; (iv) analyzing data and translating findings into actionable insights; (v) producing research outputs, reports, and communication materials to inform management, governance and strategic decisions.

As this is a Senior Management role, establish relevant relationships with respective departments and participate to SMT decisions making.

The position is permanent and pensionable.

 Requirements

1) Master’s degree in business, finance, economics, agriculture economic, or a related field

2) Minimum 5-7 years of experience in research, including at least 2 years in the financial inclusion sector

3) Strong analytical skills and expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods (i.e. descriptive and inferential statistics, impact assessment)

4) Proficiency in computer skills (Word/Excel/Power Point) and working knowledge of statistical software (e.g., STATA, SPSS, R Studio)

5) Familiarity with impact assessment, monitoring and evaluation, CP principles or SPM is advisable

Key Competences

1) Strategic thinking and execution discipline

2) Strong leadership and supervision skills; previous leadership position is recommended

3) Proactive, well-organized, and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines independently or as part of a team

4) Excellent writing, reporting, and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights

Major Responsibilities

The main responsibilities of the HRSP will focus on strengthening the department’s strategic role and driving data-based decision-making across the organization. This includes refining ESG frameworks, data systems, and analytical tools, and ensuring that insights are systematically integrated into management discussions, product design, and strategic planning. The outgoing Head of Research and Impact will provide a structured handover to ensure continuity of ongoing initiatives and a smooth transition of leadership.

Closing date of applications is Friday 30th April, 2026