Program Manager - Research Commissioning Centre (RCC), FCDO, UK

Program Manager - Research Commissioning Centre (RCC), FCDO, UK
1. Background
The International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) promotes evidence-informed equitable, inclusive and sustainable development. We support the generation and effective use of high-quality evidence to inform decision-making and improve the lives of people living in poverty in low- and middle-income countries. We provide guidance and support to produce, synthesize and quality assure evidence of what works, for whom, how, why and at what cost.

We do so through evidence programs, production of public goods, professional services and support for institutional advancement initiatives. The evidence programs include impact evaluations, implementation research, replication studies, systematic reviews and evidence gap maps. Our work encompasses a wide range of topics, sectors and themes, including health systems and services, nutrition and related social sector programs.

3ie is registered as a non-governmental organization in the United States. We have offices in New Delhi, London and Washington, DC. We are looking for a Program Manager to work with 3ie’s Synthesis & Reviews Office, UK

2. Summary
The International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) invites applications for the position of Program Manager at the Research Commissioning Centre (RCC) for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This role involves strategic oversight and expansion of the RCC's portfolio, including managing comprehensive research initiatives that align with FCDO's strategic objectives across various departments. The Program Manager (PM) will report to the Senior Program Manager of the Synthesis and Reviews Office and will be expected to work in a matrixed environment.

3. Key responsibilities

• Manage strategic planning and execution of RCC's research commissioning processes, ensuring alignment with FCDO's priorities and operational frameworks.
• Manage project portfolios, ensuring timely delivery of high-impact research outcomes that inform policy and practice in low- and middle-income countries.
• Foster effective collaboration and partnerships between FCDO offices, research institutions, and other key stakeholders.
• Oversee project monitoring, financial management and forecasting, risk management, and reporting, ensuring projects meet their objectives efficiently and effectively.
• Develop and implement policies and best practices that enhance the operational efficiency and impact of the RCC.
• Contribute to safeguarding and compliance initiatives in collaboration with the 'Contracts and Compliance Officer'.

4. Qualifications and skills
4.1 Education and Work Experience

• Minimum requirement of a master’s degree in international Affairs, Public Health, Development Studies, Public Administration, Economics, other social sciences, or a related field.
• 5 or more years of experience in program management in research commissioning, international development, or related areas, with a proven track record of leading complex projects.
• Demonstrated knowledge of FCDO's research priorities and experience working within its operational framework.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills, coupled with an ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

4.2 Skills

• PMP or equivalent certifications, extensive project management experience, and/or demonstrated successful application of industry best practices, techniques, and tools are highly preferred.
• Prior experience managing research teams during the delivery of primary or secondary research highly preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, flexibility and desire to adapt to shifting priorities and deadlines, and ability to co-lead teams with technical staff.
• Experience working in a matrix environment and collaborating across geographically disparate teams.
• Excellent cross-cultural skills and diplomacy, and a reputation for being a strategic thinker, innovator, and a “field person”.
• Strong and demonstrable proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word©, Excel© and PowerPoint©.
• Solutions-oriented, knowledgeable and/or capable of understanding donor requirements.
• Ability to guide team members in compliance, demonstrating service-mindedness, and outstanding communication, coordination, and empathetic abilities.

5. Eligibility
3ie will recruit one individual for this position. We are open to considering exceptional applicants who are based in the UK, India, or outside of these countries, and willing to work remotely from their home country, while maintaining core hours conducive to working with colleagues in London, Delhi and Washington DC. This role is crucial for driving the RCC's mission to facilitate evidence-informed decisions that improve lives worldwide. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader passionate about leveraging research for global development impact.

3ie is an equal-opportunity employer committed to equality and diversity. We do not discriminate based on sex, age, religion, ethnicity, caste, sexual orientation or for being differently abled. 

6. Terms of employment
Candidates should be available to start work at the earliest after accepting an offer. The salary range for this position is competitive and commensurate with location, qualification and experience, within the applicable salary scale of 3ie. Our policies and procedures reflect our commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse. We follow a zero-tolerance policy for any form of bullying or harassment in the workplace.

7. How to Apply
Apply via 3ie's website: https://3ieinternational.my.salesforce-sites.com/careers/fRecruit__ApplyJob?vacancyNo=VN154 

Documents submitted via Handshake will not be reviewed.

Your application package must include the following*:

• A cover letter, highlighting your experience relevant to the terms of reference. Please include information about the country you are based in and countries for which you have work authorization.
• Curriculum vitae along with names and contact information for at least three professional references.

*Incomplete applications will not be considered. Only the shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with the initial review starting 15th April 2024.