Senior Manager, Portfolio Planning & Team Operations

Senior Manager, Portfolio Planning & Team Operations

Gates Foundation

October 24, 2026November 26, 2026SeattleUnited States
Job Description
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 diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. It offers an exceptional benefits package that includes comprehensive 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 communities. The foundation is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Senior Manager, Portfolio Planning & Team Operations, plays a crucial role in providing strategic leadership for the business and team operations of the Exemplars in Global Health (EGH) team. This position involves managing the Program Coordinator and Program Assistant teams, serving as a key thought partner for the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of Strategy, Planning, and Management. The Senior Manager will be responsible for developing and monitoring the portfolio allocation strategy, assessing results against resource expenditures, and overseeing core business processes such as research project pipeline management, investment oversight, and annual planning. The role requires a focus on innovative delivery methods and collaboration with Regional and Country Office Teams to align health and development equity agendas with governmental priorities. The Senior Manager will also be tasked with translating strategic goals into coherent plans that align staff time and investments with these goals, ensuring that the EGH team operates efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Manager will lead the EGH team's business and operational strategies, including budget planning, resource allocation, and tracking progress against goals. Responsibilities include developing a rigorous research project pipeline management approach, overseeing team investments, and managing financial and operational processes. The Senior Manager will also manage the Program Coordinator and Program Assistant teams, ensuring high-quality operational support and setting priorities. Additional duties include monitoring research project pipelines, facilitating management decision-making, identifying strategic risks, and implementing risk mitigation strategies. The role requires collaboration with program leadership to foster an inclusive team culture and improve overall team efficiency and effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree or equivalent experience, preferably in public health or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in strategic business operations or research portfolio management is required, along with at least 5 years of experience in driving leadership team decision-making through strategic problem framing and analytics. Strong business judgment, proactive communication skills, and the ability to manage ambiguity are essential. Candidates should demonstrate advanced financial acumen, project management skills, and the ability to work effectively across diverse teams and cultures.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in public health, business administration, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent demonstrated experience in relevant areas may also be considered. The educational background should support the candidate's ability to engage with complex health and development issues and contribute to strategic decision-making processes.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of experience in strategic business operations or research portfolio management, with a proven track record of managing a pipeline of research projects. Experience in leading diverse functional teams and navigating unstructured situations is also required. Familiarity with global health and development institutions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is preferred.

Languages:
While no specific languages are mandated, proficiency in languages relevant to global health and development contexts would be advantageous. The ability to communicate effectively across cultural and linguistic barriers is essential for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position requires unrestricted work authorization in the United States, as the foundation does not provide immigration-related sponsorship. The salary range for this role is between $190,100 and $294,700 USD, with higher ranges for positions located in Seattle and Washington D.C. The foundation strives to balance competitive pay with its mission-driven goals. New hires typically fall within the range minimum and midpoint, depending on their skills and experience. The hiring process includes a background check, and accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities or medical conditions. The foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.
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