Director, Strategy and Programming

The Director of Strategy and Programming is responsible for designing and implementing effective program delivery structures, processes, and infrastructure for Higher Education, Collaboratives & Strategic Initiatives programming. This role serves as the primary liaison for enterprise-level program operations and planning functions, overseeing all aspects of operational planning, tracking, and management for the platform.

Programmatic Work


The director will develop, harmonize, and codify approaches, standards, and tools across program design, implementation, and tracking. They will create foundational documentation on delivery methodologies for developing and reviewing sector strategies, programs, and partnerships. Establishing a culture of continuous improvement, the director will implement processes to capture and disseminate best practices while making necessary structural adjustments.
Providing comprehensive project management support, the role involves strategic partnership in program structuring for effective operationalization and rapid mobilization. The director will coordinate cross-functional business partnering teams to ensure seamless execution of ongoing processes requiring cooperation between various functions across countries.
Collaborating closely with impact teams, the director will embed impact measurement frameworks and processes, including tools, systems, and training for country program teams. They will oversee baseline work and monitor resource adequacy.
Effective technology integration is crucial, involving Fluxx configuration and revisions aligned with program needs, as well as ensuring appropriate data management, architecture, storage, and structuring.


The role requires maintaining a comprehensive view of operational and execution elements, integrating with enabling functions, and enterprise-level planning. The director will champion cross-platform engagement on collaboration opportunities, scaling, work methods, processes, and guidelines.
Supporting enhanced portfolio planning with stronger alignment to outcomes and impact drivers, the director will contribute to shaping the approach for partnering with Policy and Thought Leadership and PAC on critical thematic areas. They will drive the mainstreaming of cross-cutting themes in programs to align with the Foundation's overall aspirations.


Non-Programmatic Work

Strategic Leadership


The director will embody and promote the Foundation's Leadership Signature, adjusting resources, roles, and systems to ensure organizational alignment. They will oversee financial accountabilities, including program proposal approvals and budget management.


Knowledge and Expertise


Developing the Foundation's knowledge and expertise in Higher Education, Collaboratives & Strategic Initiatives work, the director will create and share frameworks, tools, and best practices Foundation-wide.


Policy and Thought Leadership


The role involves shaping policy and influencing decision-makers across the ecosystem, focusing on strategic priorities and target groups. The director will contribute relevant perspectives to the Foundation's thought leadership priorities and disseminate program learnings.


People Leadership


Maintaining high team engagement, the director will foster a culture of unity and growth. They will implement and clarify the Foundation's performance management system, rewards, and career development processes, promoting an inclusive work environment that values diversity and equal opportunities.


Academic, Professional Qualification and Experience


The ideal candidate will possess a BSc, Master's/MBA, or PhD in a relevant field such as international development, education, or public policy. They should have at least 15 years of experience in the private/development sector, with a passion for education and Africa, demonstrating success in building or transforming initiatives.
Extensive leadership experience in managing complex programs, preferably in education or youth development, is required. The candidate should exhibit strategic thinking, ability to conceptualize transformative initiatives, and experience in engaging technical experts to build communities of practice.
Excellent communication skills, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit are essential. The role demands a drive for continuous experimentation, leveraging expertise and learnings. Commitment to co-creation, inclusive approaches, and success in building high-performing teams are crucial.
A strong understanding of higher education systems, particularly in Africa, and a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are required. French language and/or local language skills are advantageous.


Technical Competencies


The director should possess expertise in development, political, and social issues across Africa, along with demonstrated financial management experience. Skilled communication and influence at all levels, navigating ambiguous environments, and managing beyond hierarchy are essential.
The ability to build and engage diverse teams across multiple countries, commitment to equality and inclusion, results orientation, and exceptional organizational and project management abilities are required. The role demands fostering a positive spirit of collaboration in a complex environment.