Program Officer, Development Policy and Finance

Program Officer, Development Policy and Finance

Gates Foundation

November 8, 2026December 9, 2026Washington DcUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Gates Foundation is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes 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 employee engagement in various communities. The foundation is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
As a Program Officer within the Development Policy and Finance (DPAF) team, you will play a crucial role in coordinating analytical work and managing investments related to innovative financing and domestic capital mobilization. Reporting to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director, you will collaborate closely with Senior Program Officers and other colleagues across various teams. Your responsibilities will include managing a defined set of investments, building relationships with external partners, and representing the foundation in relevant working groups. This position is hybrid, based in Washington, DC, and is a limited-term role for 12 months, concluding no later than December 31, 202
  • It is essential that candidates have unrestricted work authorization in the United States, as the foundation does not provide immigration-related sponsorship.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your duties will encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including conducting economic and policy analysis, responding to requests from foundation leadership and program teams, and performing rapid research and quantitative analysis. You will lead research on topics such as blended finance structures and local currency financing, synthesizing findings into clear, actionable materials. Additionally, you will draft concise products for leadership engagements, manage investments throughout their lifecycle, and contribute to strategy development for the innovative financing portfolio. You will also analyze deal structures, coordinate with transaction advisors, and support the management of reusable knowledge products within the Policy Function. Your role will require you to maintain relationships with external partners and ensure alignment with sector strategies in health and agriculture.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in economics, finance, public policy, international development, or a related field, ideally with substantial coursework in economics. A minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in development finance, investment, or economic policy is required, although candidates with a bachelor's degree and 8 years of experience are also encouraged to apply. A solid understanding of the external financing landscape for low- and middle-income countries, familiarity with innovative financing instruments, and experience managing complex projects are essential. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with quantitative data are also necessary. Excellent writing and synthesis skills, along with the ability to build strong relationships in a matrixed environment, are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in economics, finance, public policy, international development, or a related field is required. Candidates should ideally have completed substantial coursework in economics to ensure a strong foundation for the analytical work involved in this position.

Experience:
The position requires at least 6 years of relevant experience in development finance, investment, financial sector development, or economic policy. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may apply with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience. Familiarity with the external financing landscape, innovative financing instruments, and experience managing complex projects are highly valued.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and documentation. Additional language skills relevant to the regions of focus, such as French or Spanish, may be considered advantageous but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a limited-term position for 12 months, with no possibility of extension beyond December 31, 202
  • The foundation does not provide relocation assistance for this role. The salary range for this position is between $143,000 and $214,400 USD, with specific ranges for Seattle and Washington D.C. being $157,300 to $235,900 USD. The foundation strives to balance competitive pay with its mission-driven goals, and new hires typically start within the range minimum and midpoint, depending on their skills and experience. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, and the foundation is committed to providing an inclusive hiring experience for all candidates.
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