Programme Manager

Programme Manager

The Programme Manager is a senior managerial position at the Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations (NEWA), responsible for providing leadership, management, and governance across multiple program areas.

The role oversees Programme Operations, Communication and Public Relations, IMS, Resource Center, Fundraising/Resource Mobilization, Research, M&E Units, and Women’s Peace-building and Humanitarian Response initiatives.

The Programme Manager supports the Executive Director in strategic responsibilities and ensures all interventions align with the organization’s strategic framework (FYSP 2020–2030).

The position also focuses on strengthening partnerships, enhancing institutional capacity, promoting gender equality, and supporting advocacy and policy engagement initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Leadership and Management

• Ensure programs and projects are designed, implemented, and managed in line with the FYSP and logical framework approaches
• Lead the development and management of the organization’s program portfolio
• Oversee daily operations of communication, fundraising, M&E, research, and humanitarian initiatives
• Provide technical guidance to program coordinators and ensure alignment with organizational goals

Strategic Support and Resource Mobilization

• Assist the Executive Directress in strategic planning and execution
• Develop project proposals and funding strategies aligned with organizational priorities
• Secure long-term strategic partnerships and funding opportunities

Policy, Advocacy, and Research

• Initiate and monitor advocacy actions on national and international policies and frameworks (SDGs, CEDAW, Beijing Platform, etc.)
• Promote gender equality, gender-responsive budgeting, and elimination of GBV/VAWG
• Ensure the organization’s engagement in national policy dialogues and feminist movements
• Review and identify gaps in policy implementation and participation of women and girls

Information Management and Communication

• Establish and manage information systems (IMS) for data collection, documentation, and dissemination
• Ensure availability of gender-disaggregated data for decision-making and advocacy
• Oversee communication strategies including media relations, publications, and digital platforms

Organizational Development and Leadership

• Strengthen internal technical capacity and human resource development
• Build organizational culture based on cooperation, transparency, and respect
• Enhance membership, partnerships, and stakeholder engagement at all levels
• Promote teamwork and alignment with organizational mission and vision

Coordination, Reporting, and Representation

• Review program reports and provide feedback for improvement
• Ensure coordination between program, finance, and administrative functions
• Represent the organization in national and international forums
• Manage risks and identify opportunities for program growth and improvement

Accountability

Supervision

• Work under the authority of the Executive Directress and oversee program operations

Decision Making

• Make decisions related to program operations, research, communication, and partnerships

Data and Information Responsibility

• Manage and safeguard program-related data and information systems

Staff Responsibility

• Supervise and provide leadership to technical staff under the program units

About You

Educational Qualifications

Minimum

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences (Gender Studies, Sociology, Anthropology, or related field)
• Master’s Degree in Social Sciences or related field

Desirable

• PhD in Social Sciences, Gender Studies, Women and Development, or related field

Relevant Experience

Minimum

• Experience in program management, coordination, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting
• Strong background in strategic planning and organizational development
• Experience in proposal writing and fundraising
• Knowledge of national policies and international frameworks
• Experience in gender mainstreaming, GRB, and policy monitoring
• Experience in managing gender-related projects and working in CSO/NGO environments

Desirable

• Advanced experience in leadership roles within CSOs or NGOs

Length of Experience

Minimum

• 10 years of experience in program management and operations
• At least 6 years in program coordination roles

Desirable

• More than 10 years of experience with over 6 years in leadership positions

Key Skills

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Proposal writing and fundraising/resource mobilization skills
• Strong networking and organizational skills

Personal Attributes

• Visionary and strategic thinker
• Strong leadership and organizational development capability
• Solution-oriented and proactive
• Excellent communication and team-building skills
• Passionate and committed to women’s rights and gender equality

Skills Required:

• Social / Science / Project / Management / Development