Senior Program Officer (SPO), Global Education, India

Job Posting Organization:
The Foundation is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity on a global scale. Established with the mission that every individual, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead a healthy and productive life, the Foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The Foundation is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Global Growth and Opportunity (GGO) division of the Foundation is focused on driving sustainable transformative change to address inequities and market failures, aiming to unlock the potential of untapped markets and promote economic and social benefits for all. The Global Education (Global Ed) team specifically targets the improvement of foundational learning outcomes in reading and math for primary school-aged children in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The role of the Senior Program Officer (SPO) involves designing and managing investments aimed at enhancing foundational learning in India, collaborating closely with national and state governments, and engaging with education leaders and partner organizations to improve literacy and numeracy outcomes at the system level. The SPO will leverage their expertise in large-scale education program implementation to translate monitoring and evaluation findings into actionable insights, integrate innovative solutions into grant proposals, and work collaboratively with other teams within the Foundation to maximize impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Officer will lead and manage a portfolio of grants and contracts aimed at improving foundational learning in six high-impact states in India. Responsibilities include contributing to the design and development of the India Global Ed strategy, reviewing grant proposals, and providing insightful analyses and recommendations for funding. The SPO will design and support innovation activities in literacy, numeracy, edtech/AI, and equity, ensuring high-quality instructional interventions centered around classroom outcomes. They will develop and oversee study designs and field evaluations, ensuring programming is responsive to real-time data. Engaging with government officials and partners, the SPO will facilitate the adoption of proven educational approaches and represent the Foundation in regional forums. The role also involves preparing written communications, managing relationships with stakeholders, and collaborating with Global Ed colleagues to enhance operational efficiency.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in education or a related field, along with a minimum of 10 years of senior-level experience or equivalent. They should have demonstrated experience in implementing large-scale programs aimed at improving foundational literacy and numeracy in primary grades in India, with a strong understanding of the global evidence base. The ideal candidate will have experience in developing and managing equitable partnerships with senior decision-makers and education partners, as well as the ability to use soft skills to manage conflicts and build consensus. Excellent interpersonal skills, project leadership capabilities, and the ability to solve complex problems with minimal oversight are essential. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are necessary to effectively engage diverse audiences and build consensus.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in education or a related field is required for this position. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in educational theory, policy, and practice, particularly as it relates to foundational learning and literacy/numeracy outcomes in primary education.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of senior-level experience in the education sector, particularly in large-scale program implementation focused on foundational learning. Experience in managing donor-funded portfolios, engaging with government and philanthropic partners, and navigating complex educational environments in India is crucial. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and work effectively in ambiguous situations is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, given the nature of the role and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Proficiency in Hindi or other regional languages would be advantageous, as it would facilitate better engagement with local partners and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in New Delhi, India, and requires the candidate to be legally eligible to work in the country without visa sponsorship. The role may involve travel up to 30% of the time. The application deadline for this position is 25 July 202

• The Foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.