Senior Program Officer (SPO)

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the organization emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. It offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, and opportunities for employee engagement in various communities. The organization is committed to fostering a supportive work environment that promotes both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer (SPO) will play a crucial role in the Inclusive Financial Systems (IFS) team, which focuses on enhancing financial inclusion in the world’s poorest regions, particularly in East Africa. The SPO will be responsible for developing and managing a portfolio of grants and contracts, requiring advanced grant management skills and a strong focus on monitoring and evaluation. This position involves strategic development and collaboration with team leadership and the Africa Regional Office to align the IFS initiatives with the foundation's global goals. The SPO will engage with government entities, financial regulators, and technology networks to implement evidence-based strategies that promote digital financial services for low-income populations. The role also requires building a strategic network of advisors and recognizing the interconnections between policies, regulations, and financial infrastructures to influence service providers effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The SPO will lead a team to develop and implement project strategies, manage complex portfolios of grants and contracts, and provide insightful analyses and recommendations for funding. Regular consultations with grantees and partners will be essential to enhance project impact, which includes field visits and operational guidance. The SPO will acquire market data to inform interventions, manage programs that align with the foundation's strategy, and represent the organization to external constituencies. Building strategic relationships with various stakeholders, including government ministries and fintech companies, will be crucial for advancing financial inclusion initiatives. The SPO will also monitor and share insights from East Africa to facilitate broader organizational goals and may manage employees, ensuring effective onboarding, performance management, and employee development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess a strong problem-solving ability, utilizing a hypothesis and data-driven approach to deliver innovative solutions in complex environments. A minimum of ten years of relevant work experience is required, with a background in the private sector, government, or development organizations focusing on financial inclusion. Candidates should be recognized as experts in Digital Financial Services and have a deep understanding of the cultural and political landscapes in East Africa. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, are necessary to synthesize information for diverse audiences and build consensus. Knowledge of impact evaluation methods and public policy in East Africa is also essential, along with demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to engage with decision-makers at all levels.

Educational Background:
An MBA or a master’s degree in a relevant field is required for this position. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their expertise in financial systems, public policy, or related areas.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least ten years of experience in relevant sectors, including private sector roles in banks or technology companies, government positions, or development organizations. Experience in Ethiopia is particularly emphasized, along with a proven track record of leading and influencing teams and stakeholders in complex environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of Swahili is essential for effective communication in East Africa. French language skills are considered beneficial but not required.

Additional Notes:
This is a limited-term position for 15 months, located in Seattle, WA, with no relocation assistance provided. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship. The salary range for this role is between $173,000 to $259,600 USD, with adjustments for high-wage markets like Seattle and Washington D.C. New hires typically fall between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range, depending on their skills and experience. The organization is committed to providing an inclusive hiring experience and offers accommodations for candidates with disabilities.