Program Associate, Strategic Impact Evaluation and Learning – Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate competitive research funding processes, including preparing calls for proposals and communicating with researchers and partner organizations.
• Support proposal review processes and coordinate the development of grant agreements.
• Track project progress, milestones, deliverables, and grant activities.
• Maintain accurate project records and databases using platforms such as Salesforce.
• Ensure timely and accurate grant reporting in line with donor requirements.
• Support research proposal screening and assessment activities.

• Support the development of new research projects and program initiatives.
• Conduct outreach and engage with researchers, government stakeholders, and development partners.
• Coordinate collaboration between FCDO teams, researchers, IPA offices, and J-PAL country teams.
• Support proposal development and relationship management activities.
• Assist in identifying opportunities for evidence-based policy interventions.

• Support the preparation of research summaries, policy briefs, presentations, and learning materials.
• Assist with dissemination activities including workshops, events, and stakeholder meetings.
• Maintain project information and updates on organizational communication platforms.
• Support capacity-building activities and training sessions.

• Support financial monitoring and administrative processes.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and records.
• Assist in monitoring program performance indicators.
• Support implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
• Prepare reports and updates for internal and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Political Science, Public Policy, Development Studies, International Development, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in project management, research management, grant coordination, policy research, or program implementation.
• Experience supporting research projects, donor-funded programs, or development initiatives is an added advantage.
• Knowledge of impact evaluation methodologies and evidence-based programming is preferred.
• Experience preparing research summaries, policy briefs, or technical reports is desirable.
• Strong understanding of humanitarian assistance, climate programs, poverty reduction, or development research is an advantage.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong project management and coordination skills.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prepare professional reports, presentations, and documentation.
• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Excel, data management tools, and CRM systems such as Salesforce.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team.
• High attention to detail, organization, and professionalism.
• Fluency in English communication.

About Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA)

Career Opportunities and Growth

• Research and impact evaluation management
• Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL)
• Grant and donor management
• Policy analysis
• International development programs
• Project coordination
• Evidence-based policymaking

• Program Manager
• Research Coordinator
• Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist
• Grants Manager
• Policy Research Officer
• Development Program Specialist

How to Apply