Program Manager, 2030 Water Resources Group (WRG)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The WBG is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on solving the world's greatest development challenges through collaboration with public and private sector partners, investment in groundbreaking projects, and the use of data, research, and technology to drive transformative change globally. The WBG Planet Vice Presidency leads efforts to make the planet livable, which is essential for job creation and poverty elimination, and is responsible for delivering knowledge and business solutions to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager for the 2030 Water Resources Group (WRG) will play a pivotal role in leading the WRG Secretariat, which is overseen by a Governing Council comprising members from public, private, and civil society sectors. The Program Manager will report to the WBG Director of Water and will be responsible for implementing the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, developing and managing annual Operational Plans, and ensuring the production of high-quality analytical products. This position requires active participation in the WBG Water Leadership team and close coordination with various groups within the World Bank and IFC. The Program Manager will also be tasked with enhancing WRG's visibility and impact communications globally, engaging with civil society, academia, and private sector partners at high levels, and building diverse partnerships to address water security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager will lead the WRG Secretariat, implementing the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan in consultation with WBG management and the Steering Board. Responsibilities include developing and monitoring annual Operational Plans, supervising the production of analytical products, aligning WRG activities with the WBG Water Strategy Implementation Plan, and participating in the WBG Water Leadership team. The role also involves managing the WRG Secretariat and technical staff, modeling exemplary leadership values, and fostering an environment of learning and innovation. Additionally, the Program Manager will be responsible for resource management, including fundraising and developing strategies for resource mobilization, ensuring effective budget management, and delivering the agreed-upon work program within compliance with internal controls and policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet all WBG-wide Grade GH level position criteria, which includes experience working in at least two world regions or a combination of regional and corporate assignments. A Master's or doctoral degree in Water Resources, Environment, Economics, Business Strategy, Administration, or other relevant disciplines is required. Additionally, candidates should have at least 12 years of international and country-level work experience in program management, financing/business development, or water and environmental issues, with significant experience across organizations and sectors. A clear understanding of the technical and policy drivers of the water sector and established networks among key individuals and organizations in the water, climate, and environment agenda are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's or doctoral degree in relevant fields such as Water Resources, Environment, Economics, Business Strategy, or Administration. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of water resource management and the associated environmental challenges.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of international and country-level work experience, particularly in program management, financing, or business development related to water and environmental issues. Candidates should have significant experience working across various organizations and sectors, demonstrating a clear understanding of the water sector's technical and policy drivers.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with outstanding verbal and written communication skills required. Additionally, proficiency in other languages such as French and Spanish is preferred, as these skills can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a 4-year term appointment, and the World Bank Group values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates from member countries to apply, particularly Sub-Saharan African nationals, Caribbean nationals, and female candidates. The organization offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The WBG promotes a culture of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, and empowerment and accountability among its employees.