Lead - Programs

About the Role

We are looking for a seasoned Lead for Programs to oversee project execution, management, and stakeholder engagement within our organization focused on social and environmental impact. This role demands managing project roll-outs aligned with design, customizing strategies to meet goals, and ensuring community engagement and ownership. The candidate will also develop partnerships with government and other sectors, lead advocacy initiatives, and build a cohesive, high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure timely and effective implementation of projects adhering to design specifications.
• Customize strategies and plans to align with project objectives.
• Guide the team in understanding and executing detailed implementation plans (DIP).
• Coordinate cross-functional organizational support for projects.
• Introduce innovative practices and interventions.
• Identify and resolve operational challenges collaboratively with teams.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for streamlined operations punctually.
• Conduct regular field monitoring dedicating around 70% of time to ensure deliverable achievement.
• Promote community ownership and sustainability of activities.
• Align project actions with community aspirations and leverage local strengths and institutions.
• Enhance transparency and accountability to impacted populations.
• Build and nurture relationships with stakeholders across government, private, academic, and NGO sectors at various administrative levels to facilitate partnerships.
• Create visibility for projects and organization among government stakeholders and participate in committees and advocacy platforms.
• Develop advocacy strategies collaboratively with technical teams.
• Lead orientation, supervision, and motivation of project teams to maintain coordination, clarity of roles, and positive work culture.
• Identify and address capacity building needs and conduct training programs.
• Manage performance systems including goal setting, mid-year reviews, and appraisals.
• Mentor team members and handle conflict resolution promptly.
• Support activity planning, monitoring, and program reviews.
• Assist in project documentation, reporting, study execution, and content development for visibility.
• Maintain high professionalism, prioritize workload effectively, and ensure compliance with organizational policies, SOPs, and confidentiality standards.
• Be willing to travel frequently within India, sometimes on short notice as required by projects or organizational needs.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams and partners to achieve project objectives.
• Perform other related duties as necessary for organizational functioning within skill set.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Postgraduate degree in Social Work, Rural Development, Rural Management, or Social Sciences.
• Over 5 years of experience managing programs within the social sector.
• Experience working with informal sector workforce.
• Strong understanding of social and environmental issues and methodologies.
• Background in program/project management or fieldwork is advantageous.
• Knowledge related to plastics recycling, waste management, or related fields is beneficial.
• Fluency in English, Bengali, and Hindi is required.

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in project and fund management.
• Deep knowledge of the social sector and its dynamics.
• Strong data management, documentation, and reporting capabilities.
• Proficient with MS Office and CRM tools.
• Ability to prioritize under pressure and meet deadlines with attention to detail.
• Quick learner adaptable to new processes and procedures.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently.
• Possess humility, honesty, transparency, integrity, and maintain confidentiality.

Compensation and Benefits

The compensation package aligns with industry standards. We provide a competitive salary, provident fund, performance incentives, comprehensive health and accident insurance, and substantial opportunities for career advancement. Employees enjoy continuous learning and development programs, a healthy work-life balance supported by flexible policies, paid leaves and holidays. Engagement activities, employee recognition, and wellness initiatives contribute to a supportive and rewarding work environment.