Gender, Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Director

Gender, Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Director

Mercy Corps

November 6, 2026December 21, 2026AbujaNigeria
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
Prosper Global is a humanitarian organization that was established in 2012, originally known as Mercy Corps until its rebranding in 202
  • The organization focuses on addressing urgent needs and fostering lasting progress in communities affected by conflict, climate change, and economic hardship. Prosper Global operates in Nigeria, which is Africa's most populous country, and has programs across 16 states. The organization aims to empower communities by building economic opportunities, enhancing water security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, promoting peace and good governance, and ensuring food security. Prosper Global's mission is to help communities build resilience and thrive despite various challenges, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and empowerment for marginalized populations.

Job Overview:
The GESI Director will play a crucial role in overseeing the integration of gender and social dimensions into the Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) investment program, which is funded by the Mastercard Foundation. This position is responsible for ensuring that program activities yield positive outcomes for participants of all genders and ages. The GESI Director will lead the implementation of gender integration strategies, build capacity among team members and partners, and raise awareness about the importance of gender equity and social inclusion. The role involves conducting a gender analysis to inform program implementation, promoting innovative initiatives for inclusiveness, and ensuring compliance with donor requirements and organizational policies. The GESI Director will also represent the portfolio externally on matters related to gender, youth empowerment, and safeguarding, ensuring that these principles are central to all program decisions and activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The GESI Director will be responsible for providing strategic leadership for the integration of Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) across the CSA portfolio. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing a GESI and Safeguarding Strategy, ensuring that gender-transformative and inclusive approaches are embedded throughout the program lifecycle. The Director will serve as the principal advisor on GESI and safeguarding priorities, drive the development of strategies to increase access to dignified work opportunities for marginalized groups, and ensure that safeguarding considerations are incorporated into all aspects of design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation. The role also involves monitoring field activities, conducting training for program staff, developing partnerships with other organizations, and ensuring that participant safety and well-being are prioritized in all program activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent experience in development studies, international relations, gender studies, sociology, or a related social science discipline. A minimum of seven years of experience in gender, youth, and social dynamics development work at the community level is required. Candidates should have experience in developing and conducting gender training, engaging in gender advocacy, and mainstreaming gender and social inclusion into programs. Additionally, candidates should have at least ten years of experience in senior program-level positions, with a preference for those who have worked on projects addressing youth employment and women's empowerment. Understanding of Mastercard Foundation regulations and program administration is preferred, along with strong analytical and communication skills.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent experience in relevant fields such as development studies, international relations, women's studies, gender studies, sociology, or other social science disciplines is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of gender and social dynamics in the context of development work.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of experience in gender, youth, and social dynamics development work at the community level. Candidates should have a proven track record in senior program-level positions, with a minimum of ten years of relevant experience. Experience in gender training, advocacy, and mainstreaming gender and social inclusion into programs is crucial, as well as prior humanitarian or development experience in contexts similar to Nigeria.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context in Nigeria.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in Abuja, Nigeria, with a risk level classified as Level 3, indicating frequent contact with participants and access to sensitive data. The role requires at least 40% travel to field offices, which may involve areas with varying degrees of insecurity. The position is contingent upon securing donor funding and approval of the candidate. Prosper Global is committed to equal employment opportunities and fostering a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to safeguarding principles and ethical standards.
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