Program Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Gates Foundation is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded with the mission that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the global 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 where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, and it operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce to tackle global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Program Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Gates Foundation by managing the planning and execution of engagements and trips for the CEO and the Chair. This limited-term position, lasting 11 months, requires the officer to coordinate with various internal and external stakeholders to ensure successful outcomes for high-level engagements. The officer will be responsible for leading the planning process, managing schedules, and guiding the CEO through activities during trips. This role demands a high level of organization, communication, and collaboration to ensure that all engagements are executed smoothly and effectively, reflecting the foundation's mission and values.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The core responsibilities of the Program Officer include leading the planning and execution of domestic and international trips for the foundation's Chair and CEO. This involves organizing and managing activities that support leadership trips, such as internal planning meetings, coordination with partners, advance trips, and debrief sessions. The officer will serve as the trip director, ensuring that the CEO's time is utilized effectively and that all needs are met, including preparation and briefing. Additionally, the officer will collaborate with security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security teams to address operational and security concerns, participate in special projects, and coordinate with other members of the Office of the CEO to align activities across engagements. The role requires maintaining high-quality interactions with external stakeholders, including government officials and partners, and ensuring that all communications are clear and consistent.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 4 years of experience in policy, advocacy, or communications, particularly with government, multilateral organizations, or NGOs. A proven track record of supporting leadership roles and high-profile initiatives is essential. The ideal candidate should have experience in planning high-profile events and trips, including virtual and hybrid formats, and should be adept at staffing high-profile principals. Strong time management, project management, and interpersonal skills are necessary, along with the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders. Candidates should demonstrate critical thinking, business judgment, and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.

Educational Background:
While specific educational requirements are not detailed, candidates are generally expected to have a strong educational background that supports their experience in policy, advocacy, or communications. A degree in a relevant field such as international relations, public policy, or communications may be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in policy, advocacy, or communications, particularly in roles that involve high-profile initiatives and leadership support. Experience in international contexts, especially in developing countries, is strongly preferred, as is familiarity with the complexities of planning and executing high-profile events and engagements.

Languages:
While no specific language requirements are mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory given the nature of the role and the need to communicate with diverse stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages relevant to the foundation's areas of operation.

Additional Notes:
This is a limited-term position for 11 months, and relocation assistance will not be provided. The role requires the ability to travel up to 50% domestically and internationally. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship. The salary range for this position is between $152,800 and $229,200 USD, with actual placement depending on the candidate's skills and experience. The foundation emphasizes a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices and workplace culture.