Programme Manager

Programme Manager

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

November 11, 2025November 25, 2025KampalaUganda
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) About
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) works in 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of every child. UNICEF has spent 70 years working to improve the lives of children and their families. Defending children's rights throughout their lives requires a global presence, aiming to produce results and understand their effects.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs thousands of staff globally and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce.

Job Overview:
The Programme Manager will play a crucial role in the Community Health Workforce Development Programme, which is a flagship initiative aimed at transforming the lives of Community Health Workers (CHWs) across 13 countries, including Uganda. This position requires a consultant with extensive experience in programme and grant management, particularly in complex environments. The Programme Manager will ensure that the project aligns with UNICEF's and donor's goals, manage risks, develop work plans, and oversee financial management. The role also involves supporting the development of reports and documentation of lessons learned, contributing to the overall success of the programme and showcasing Uganda as a model for future expansions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Ensure alignment with UNICEF’s and the donors’ programmatic goals and compliance with requirements.
  • Implement the programme with a robust partnerships strategy and risk management plan.
  • Identify and mitigate risks across programmatic implementation.
  • Develop and manage a detailed programme implementation workplan.
  • Provide oversight and technical support on partnerships and operational policies.
  • Conduct financial management and provide detailed analyses on grant spending.
  • Support the development and submission of narrative and financial reports.
  • Document key lessons learned for sharing with other implementation countries.
  • Develop project communications activities as per the communication plan. 1
  • Provide operational support for onsite activities. 1
  • Prepare for and execute donor field missions.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (master’s or higher) in social sciences or a relevant subject is required. Professional certification in programme management (e.g., PRINCE2, PgMP, PMP) is preferred. A minimum of 5-8 years of progressively responsible experience in programme and grant management is essential, with proven experience managing large grants (over $1M annual budget). Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage complex projects across multiple locations are necessary. Experience in contracting and managing multiple implementing partners is also required, along with expertise in developing high-quality technical documents and reports.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or higher) in social sciences or a relevant field. Professional certifications in programme management such as PRINCE2, PgMP, or PMP are preferred qualifications that enhance a candidate's profile for this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5-8 years of progressively responsible professional experience in programme management and/or grant management. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing large grants, particularly those exceeding $1 million in annual budget. Experience in complex project implementation and familiarity with emergency settings are considered assets.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another local language is considered an asset and may enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is a consultancy role within UNICEF's Uganda Country Office, focusing on the Community Health Workforce Development Programme. The consultancy is expected to last for a multi-year period, with a focus on full-time engagement. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware of UNICEF's zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and the rigorous background checks that will be conducted for selected candidates.
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