Senior Program Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserve the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the 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 that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer position is focused on issue communications and advocacy, specifically within the context of agricultural development and economic opportunity in Nigeria. This role is not a general communications position but is centered on translating the foundation's Agricultural Development strategy and related priorities into actionable influence and narrative change. The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate a deep understanding of policy, political economy, and programmatic communications, with the ability to navigate complex advocacy landscapes. The role involves leading advocacy communications strategies, developing partnerships, and directly engaging with sector leaders and government officials to achieve desired outcomes. The Senior Program Officer will also be responsible for shaping narratives that connect agriculture to broader economic opportunities, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and women's empowerment, thereby supporting the foundation's overarching goals in Nigeria and across Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead Nigeria-specific advocacy communications strategies that align with agricultural development and economic opportunity priorities.
• Support policy and implementation moments through grants linked to agricultural transformation.
• Serve as the primary advocacy communications partner to Nigeria-based leadership, ensuring alignment with foundation priorities.
• Develop and execute a Nigeria agriculture advocacy communications strategy that identifies priority policy windows and decision-makers.
• Shape compelling narratives that connect agriculture to jobs, food security, and inclusive growth.
• Build and steward a strong advocacy communications ecosystem of partners capable of advancing agricultural policy reform.
• Develop clear theories of change and results frameworks for advocacy communications grants.
• Monitor political and media risks affecting agriculture policy and advise on narrative risks.
• Coordinate closely with various foundation teams to ensure coherence in advocacy communications across different areas.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 7 years of experience in policy advocacy communications, strategic communications, or issue-based advocacy, preferably in agriculture or economic opportunity. A strong understanding of Nigeria's policy and political economy is essential, along with the ability to operate effectively in complex reform environments. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to translate technical evidence into policy-relevant narratives and have experience working through partner-led advocacy ecosystems. Strong strategy, synthesis, writing, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills are required, as well as the ability to work across geographies and teams while maintaining accountability for results.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in communications, public policy, international development, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for candidates with extensive experience in advocacy and communications within the agricultural sector.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in relevant fields, with a strong emphasis on policy advocacy communications and strategic communications. Experience in agriculture, food systems, and economic opportunity is highly desirable, along with a proven track record of managing advocacy-oriented grants and contracts. Familiarity with key continental or regional policy frameworks and advocacy platforms in Africa is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, given the role's focus on communication and advocacy within Nigeria. Proficiency in additional local languages or French may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders across the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is not a traditional media relations or corporate communications role; it requires a strong focus on advocacy strategy and political judgment. The role may involve travel up to 30% domestically and internationally. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in Nigeria without visa sponsorship. The hiring process will include a background check, and accommodations will be provided for candidates with disabilities or medical conditions. The foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.