Program Officer (PO) Transformation Networks

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. It was 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 the importance of diversity among its employees, reflecting the varied 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 employees to engage in various community initiatives. The organization is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Program Officer (PO) Transformation Networks will play a crucial role in building relationships with key partners within the Higher Endeavor portfolio, which includes significant organizations in U.S. Higher Education that collectively serve over 200 colleges and universities. This position primarily focuses on working with Intermediary for Scale partners and strategies, but there is potential for broader engagement with other stakeholders in the Higher Endeavor initiative. The PO will be responsible for leading and guiding complex grant agreements, providing insights and guidance to partner organizations as they enhance their capacity to deliver transformative services to institutions at scale. Success in this role hinges on a strong commitment to equitable educational outcomes, inclusive grant-making practices, and a collaborative approach that fosters authentic partnerships. The PO will report to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of Transformation and will collaborate closely with peer program officers and various strategy portfolios.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The core responsibilities of the Program Officer include promoting racial and socioeconomic equity for Black, Latino, and Indigenous students, as well as students from low-income backgrounds. The PO will identify and cultivate partnerships and resources within the Higher Education ecosystem to enhance transformation effectiveness, build partner capacities for connectivity, and refine workflows among key partners for impactful collaboration. The role involves developing collaborative investment opportunities, reviewing letters of inquiry and grant proposals, establishing learning and impact objectives, and providing clear, insightful written analyses and recommendations for funding. The PO will draft and edit proposal summaries for foundation leadership review, guide PS team members on partner due diligence, investment structures, and evaluate progress against learning and impact objectives. Additionally, the PO will manage complex grant agreements, maintain relationships with key partners, draft progress and final reports, and make recommendations based on learning and impact progress. The role also includes consulting with potential partners, conducting site visits, providing technical guidance, convening meetings, and evaluating performance milestones. The PO will manage internal processes and portfolio progress, ensuring proper documentation, grant budgeting, and reporting, while continuously improving operational efficiency and effectiveness. Maintaining high standards of stakeholder engagement through transparent communication with external partners and internal team members is essential. The PO will represent the foundation in external boards and working groups, demonstrating strong negotiation and presentation skills, and collaborating with colleagues in related program areas to leverage cross-team and cross-sector investments.

Required Qualifications:
To be successful in this role, candidates must demonstrate equity-minded leadership, with a deep understanding of racism as a structural system that affects Black, Latino, and Indigenous students. Candidates should possess knowledge of how racism intersects with other systems and mechanisms for redefining these systems, along with a strong belief in the potential for student success when institutions better serve them. A deep understanding of higher education institutions, intermediary organizations, and technical assistance providers is essential, with preferred technical experience in philanthropic approaches to systems change at a national scale. Candidates should have expert experience in collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing large data sets or multiple data sources into actionable insights for decision-making. Strong initiative leadership and project management skills are required, along with the ability to adapt to shifting priorities. Candidates should be expert collaborators in complex environments, capable of mobilizing and leading multiple partners towards shared goals with humility. The ability to set and meet high standards for multi-stakeholder engagements, along with direct communication skills that foster trust and clear agreements, is crucial.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a relevant educational background that supports their understanding of the complexities of higher education and the nonprofit sector. A degree in education, social sciences, public policy, or a related field is typically preferred, although equivalent experience may also be considered.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in roles related to higher education, philanthropy, or nonprofit management. This includes demonstrated experience in managing complex projects, leading initiatives focused on equity and inclusion, and engaging with diverse stakeholders in the education sector. Experience in grant management and partnership development is also essential, as is familiarity with the challenges faced by underrepresented student populations in higher education.

Languages:
While there are no specific language requirements mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory. Additional language skills that facilitate communication with diverse communities and stakeholders may be considered advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This position is a limited-term role for 9 months, and relocation assistance will not be provided. The salary range for this role is between $143,000 and $214,400 USD, with specific adjustments for high-wage markets like Seattle and Washington D.C., where the salary range is $157,300 to $235,900 USD. The organization strives to balance competitive pay with its mission, and new hires typically fall between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range based on their skills and experience. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, and the organization is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for all candidates.