Program Manager – Rural and Strategic Livelihoods

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About the Organization

We focus on providing quality education to all, through the country’s vast network of government schools. Collaborations are key to our work, and we work with governments on various aspects of school education: such as enhancing capacity, knowledge and perspective of teachers and other functionaries in the field, textbook and curricula development and encouraging better practices in schools.

The Azim Premji University, in Bengaluru and Bhopal, carries forward our commitment to education with a social purpose.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional for our work on rural and strategic livelihoods. This role combines grant-making and program management with the strategic development of innovative, scalable livelihood models. It requires both a deep understanding of grassroots rural realities and the ability to conceptualize and support systemic change that enhances income security and economic empowerment of marginalized communities.

The role involves identifying, evaluating, and supporting interventions across farm, off-farm, non-farm and forest-based livelihoods — including through civil society organizations, social enterprises, and ecosystem partnerships — and leveraging markets, institutions, and technology.

Job Responsibilities

• Identify emerging trends, approaches, and scalable models across rural livelihoods — with a focus on income diversification, value chain strengthening, and economic inclusion.
• Provide thought leadership on integrated agribusiness, non-farm enterprises, forest-based livelihoods, and digital innovation for market access and financial inclusion.
• Engage and support CSOs working with small and marginal farmers, traditional artisans, and other vulnerable communities; manage grant relationships and support high-quality program delivery.
• Support internal teams in knowledge building, program design, and ongoing grant implementation.
• Manage the disbursal of high-impact grants within the organisation in an individual capacity
• Ensure alignment of grant proposals and programmatic initiatives with the Foundation’s values and due diligence protocols.
• Travel extensively to engage with partners, field teams, and communities.

Education Qualification/Required Skills & Experience

• Master’s degree in Rural Development, Agriculture, Economics, Social Policy, Business Administration or a related field (Bachelor’s with exceptional experience may be considered).
• 10–15 years of relevant experience in rural livelihoods, with a mix of grassroots implementation and strategic program development.
• Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale rural livelihoods programs and/or CSO partnerships.
• Strong understanding of value chains, agribusiness, non-farm/forest-based livelihoods, and sustainable development approaches.
• Proven ability to manage grants, mentor teams, and contribute to organisational learning and innovation.
• Excellent analytical, project management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High level of initiative, self-direction, and problem-solving ability.
• Willingness to travel extensively across rural geographies.

For more information please check the Link

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