Senior Program Officer

Role overview

This is a senior grantmaking position focused on managing major funding portfolios in global health and development. The role combines research, strategy, and investment judgment to direct very large pools of philanthropic capital toward the most effective opportunities. It is a high-autonomy role with meaningful influence over how resources are allocated to drive global impact.

The position is based in Australia and is offered through a partner organization that will handle applications and all subsequent hiring steps.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a major grantmaking portfolio and set the strategic direction for funding decisions.
• Assess potential grants through quantitative review, cost-effectiveness analysis, and informed qualitative judgment.
• Shape and improve portfolio strategy by balancing established interventions with newer exploratory approaches.
• Work closely with research colleagues to bring evidence and expert insight into funding priorities.
• Develop and sustain relationships with grantees, subject-matter experts, and outside stakeholders.
• Explain funding decisions, portfolio results, and strategic insights to both internal and external audiences.
• Support and coach teammates while helping improve grantmaking methods and internal processes.

Requirements

• At least 5 to 10+ years of experience in program leadership, research, strategy, investment, or another analytical discipline.
• Hands-on experience using quantitative analysis, evidence-based decision-making, or cost-effectiveness frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to manage or influence large budgets, portfolios, or complex initiatives involving many stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate uncertainty and trade-offs clearly.
• Proven stakeholder management experience with NGOs, funders, research bodies, or public-sector partners.
• Comfort working independently in fast-moving, uncertain environments while maintaining strong analytical discipline.
• Curiosity and a history of solving difficult strategic problems with high potential impact.

Benefits and additional information

• Compensation is competitive, aligned to location and experience, and described as a high six-figure package.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance are fully covered for employees and dependents for US-based staff.
• Employees receive 4 weeks of paid annual leave and 16 weeks of fully paid parental leave.
• A 5% employer retirement contribution is provided automatically for US-based 403(b) plans.
• The role offers fully remote flexibility, with optional access to office space in select locations.
• Paid travel may be provided for field visits, conferences, and team retreats where relevant.
• Support is available for an ergonomic home office setup or coworking arrangements.

Application and hiring process

Applications are reviewed through an AI-assisted matching workflow intended to help identify strong fits quickly and fairly. Shortlisted candidates are shared with the hiring company, and the employer’s internal team manages interviews, assessments, and the final hiring decision.

Data privacy notice

By applying, candidates acknowledge that their personal data may be processed to assess candidacy and shared with the hiring employer on the basis of legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures, subject to applicable data protection laws. Candidates may request access, correction, deletion, or objection rights at any time. AI tools may assist with reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, and checking for inconsistencies, but human judgment remains central to the final decision.