Deputy Director, Strategy, Planning and Management

Deputy Director, Strategy, Planning and Management

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

November 20, 2025January 4, 2026SeattleUnited States
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation About
We are guided by the Gates family’s deeply held belief: that all lives have equal value. Our goal is to find solutions for people with the most urgent needs, wherever they live.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserve the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the organization emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. It 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 community engagement among employees. The organization is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its staff.

Job Overview:
In the role of director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director, Strategy, Planning and Management (DDSPM) within the Family Planning (FP) team, the individual will be responsible for overseeing strategic and operational aspects of the FP portfolio. This includes managing the 2026 Strategy Review and Annual Planning deliverables, tracking progress through the FP Dashboard, and overseeing an investment portfolio aimed at enhancing the cost-efficiency of FP delivery. The DDSPM will develop a long-term vision and strategy for the Family Planning team, ensuring alignment with foundation leadership and the FP team. This position also involves leading the Business Team and managing the Strategy Team, acting as a Chief of Staff and strategic advisor to the Director of the team. The role is critical in ensuring that the FP team can effectively deliver high-quality contraceptive information and services to women and girls in the world's poorest countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director will define and articulate program and policy strategies, investment priorities, and Bodies of Work (BoW) in collaboration with portfolio Directors and team members. They will partner with Division Directors to develop sub-initiative strategies and execution plans, ensuring alignment with the overall strategic plan. The DDSPM will lead complex strategic projects, drive alignment of portfolio work to strategy, and manage the annual strategy review process. They will also develop a portfolio management approach that ensures effective stewardship and resource allocation, frame portfolio progress, and provide feedback to initiative teams on grant development. Additionally, the DDSPM will manage co-chair meetings, support team development, and promote a culture of collaboration and effectiveness across the division.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree and a minimum of 10 years of experience in international development, business strategy, or business development, with a strong background in negotiations. Familiarity with gender equality programs and strategy design is preferred, along with deep knowledge of strategy development and implementation. The ideal candidate will have experience in managing complex, multi-stakeholder change initiatives, excellent people management skills, and the ability to synthesize information and analyze development challenges. Strong project management skills, effective communication abilities, and a high level of cultural competence are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree is required for this position, ideally in a field related to international development, public policy, business administration, or a related discipline that supports the strategic goals of the Family Planning team.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, particularly in roles that involve international development, business strategy, and leadership. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing complex projects and teams, as well as experience in gender equality initiatives and strategy implementation.

Languages:
While no specific languages are mandated, proficiency in English is essential. Additional language skills relevant to the organization's focus areas may be considered advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This is a 12-month limited-term role that does not provide relocation assistance. The salary range for this position is between $233,600 and $362,200 USD, with higher ranges for positions based in Seattle and Washington D.C. The organization emphasizes a balance between competitive pay and its mission-driven focus. New hires typically start within the range minimum and midpoint, depending on their skills and experience. The role may require domestic and international travel up to 20%. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship. The hiring process includes a background check, and accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.
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