Senior Program Officer, Leadership Engagement Implementation

Job Posting Organization:
The Gates Foundation is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity on a global scale. Established with the mission that every individual, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead a healthy and productive life, the foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. The foundation 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 organization is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer, Leadership Engagement Implementation is a crucial role within the Africa Team of the Gates Foundation. This position is designed to shape, coordinate, and execute strategies for leadership engagement, ensuring that the foundation's leadership priorities are effectively translated into actionable outcomes. The officer will oversee the planning and execution of high-level leadership visits and events, working closely with regional representatives and program teams to align these engagements with the foundation's strategic goals in Africa. The role also involves supporting critical partnerships across the continent, engaging with former heads of state, philanthropists, and other influential figures to advance the foundation's objectives. The position demands exceptional project management skills, political acumen, and a deep understanding of the development landscape in Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Officer will lead the comprehensive planning, coordination, and execution of high-profile leadership trips and events in priority countries across Africa. Responsibilities include preparing logistics, engaging partners, and conducting post-event follow-ups to ensure that engagements foster sustained relationships and measurable outcomes. The officer will collaborate with the Africa Director and Deputy Directors to define trip objectives, design itineraries, and develop high-quality briefing materials. Additionally, the officer will manage debrief processes and documentation, proactively identify and mitigate operational risks, and serve as the central point for coordinating leadership engagement across various program teams. The role also involves tracking and synthesizing outcomes of leadership engagements to inform strategic decision-making and maintaining an integrated calendar of planned leadership visits and events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in international relations, public policy, management, or a related field, with a Master’s degree preferred. A minimum of 7 years of experience in program management, external relations, or government affairs is required, ideally within an international development or philanthropic organization. Proven experience in managing high-profile events and official visits, as well as demonstrated success in working with government institutions and development partners, is essential. The candidate should have strong communication, analytical, and synthesis skills, with the ability to create clear and compelling briefing materials. A strategic mindset, excellent planning and execution discipline, and the ability to engage confidently with senior leaders are also necessary.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in international relations, public policy, management, or a related field as a minimum qualification. A Master’s degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in international development and philanthropic efforts.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in program management, external relations, or government affairs, particularly within the context of international development or philanthropic organizations. Experience in managing high-profile events and engagements with executive-level stakeholders is crucial, as is the ability to lead cross-functional projects and coordinate multiple stakeholders across different geographies.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential given the international nature of the role. Additional languages relevant to the African context may be considered advantageous, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders across the continent.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and may require domestic and occasional international travel, up to 25%. The hiring process includes a standard background check, and the foundation is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for all candidates. The organization emphasizes its dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all employment practices, ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably.