Senior Program Officer, Policy & Evidence

Senior Program Officer, Policy & Evidence

Gates Foundation

October 25, 2026November 7, 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 everyone should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. It offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, and opportunities for employee engagement. The foundation is committed to fostering a supportive work environment that promotes both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer, Policy & Evidence will play a crucial role in shaping policy, program, and funding decisions through the evidence generated by the Exemplars in Global Health (EGH) program. This position requires a strategic approach to partnership development with global health institutions, ensuring that EGH's insights are effectively utilized in decision-making processes. The officer will be responsible for designing and leading strategies that enhance the uptake of EGH evidence, advising teams on positioning their work to influence policy, and building coalitions among various stakeholders. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for research and analysis that can advance partnerships and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Officer will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:
  • Designing and leading partnership strategies with global health institutions to drive the integration of EGH evidence into their policy and funding decisions, while tracking the impact of these strategies.
  • Identifying opportunities for new or existing research that can enhance EGH's partnerships and advising teams on how to effectively position this work.
  • Building and maintaining coalitions of governments, technical partners, and institutions that share common evidence-to-policy goals at various levels.
  • Leading the development and presentation of policy briefs, position papers, and other materials that facilitate the use of EGH evidence by leaders.
  • Managing consultants and contractors who support partnership strategies.
  • Sharing insights on institutional priorities to inform the upstream research design of EGH teams.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 10 years of experience in global health policy, advocacy, or development-focused consulting, with a preference for those holding a Master's or other advanced degree. They should have a proven track record of designing and implementing strategies that effectively influence policymakers and funding decisions. A strong understanding of how low- and middle-income country governments and global health institutions utilize evidence in their decision-making processes is essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to convene and influence diverse partners, effectively communicate complex information, and navigate dynamic environments.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or other advanced degree in a relevant field is preferred for this position. Candidates should have a solid educational foundation that supports their understanding of global health policy and advocacy.

Experience:
The role requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in global health policy, advocacy, or development consulting. Experience working in low- and middle-income countries is preferred, as it provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within these contexts.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not detailed, proficiency in English is mandatory. Additional language skills relevant to the regions of focus may be advantageous but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and 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 to $294,700 USD, with higher ranges for positions based in Seattle and Washington D.C. The foundation emphasizes a balance between competitive pay and 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 the organization is committed to providing accommodations for candidates with disabilities during the application and interview process.
Apply now
Similar Jobs