Head of Programmer Development of Chance for Childhood in Africa NGO Jobs 2025 International Development Salary £45,000–£50,000.

Head of Programmer Development

Location: Rwanda, or Uganda
Organization: Chance for Childhood
Expected Start Date: January 2026
Salary Range: £45,000 – £50,000 FTE
Application Deadline: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis

About Chance for Childhood

Chance for Childhood is an international child-rights organization dedicated to ensuring that every child in Africa grows up in safety, with a sense of belonging, and the freedom to play.

Through programmes in inclusive education, child protection, health, and family resilience, we support children to transition successfully from early childhood into confident adulthood.

Working closely with local communities, governments, and partner NGOs in Ghana, Rwanda, and Uganda, we are strengthening systems for social inclusion and scaling our impact across Africa. Following our merger with Hope for Children in December 2024, we are preparing to launch our ambitious 2030 Strategy, focused on innovation, collaboration, and measurable impact.

Role Purpose

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Head of Programme Development to lead and expand our growing portfolio of programmes across Africa.

As a key member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the postholder will shape organizational strategy, strengthen partnerships, drive fundraising initiatives, and ensure high-quality delivery of all programmes.

This role is pivotal in positioning Chance for Childhood as a leader in inclusive, community-driven child-rights programming.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership

• Define and deliver the overall programme vision in line with the organization’s global strategy and Theory of Change.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Contribute to strategic decision-making as an active member of the SMT.

2. Programme Development & Implementation

• Develop and oversee a multi-country programme development strategy.
• Ensure timely and high-quality implementation of all projects within budget.
• Strengthen partner capacity in technical quality and community engagement.

3. Fundraising & Proposal Development

• Lead the design and submission of competitive, high-value proposals to institutional and philanthropic donors.
• Coordinate with finance, HR, safeguarding, and country teams throughout the proposal process.
• Identify new funding opportunities and maintain a robust pipeline.

4. Donor & Partner Engagement

• Build and nurture relationships with donors at national, regional, and international levels.
• Represent the organization in external meetings, networks, and field visits.
• Support local partners to enhance fundraising and programme design capacity.

5. Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL)

• Strengthen systems for evidence-based programming and learning.
• Promote reflection, innovation, and knowledge-sharing across teams.
• Translate monitoring data into compelling reports and success stories for stakeholders.

Candidate Profile

Essential Requirements

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in international development, including at least 7 years in senior management.
• Proven track record in programme design, delivery, and fundraising.
• Expertise in inclusive education, child protection, or economic resilience.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-country operations.
• Excellent proposal writing, budgeting, and donor relationship skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.
• Legal right to work in Ghana, Rwanda, or Uganda.

Desirable Assets

• Experience with alternative financing mechanisms (impact or results-based funding).
• Established professional networks within the child-rights and development sectors.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (£45,000 – £50,000 FTE).
• Employer pension and medical insurance.
• Generous annual leave and flexible working arrangements.
• A collaborative, inclusive environment committed to staff well-being.
• An opportunity to lead innovative programmes improving lives across Africa.

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents in PDF format to: apply@chanceforchildhood.org

• A detailed CV
• A one-page cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability for the role

Email subject line: HPDIL2025 – Head of Programme Development Application

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Safeguarding Commitment

Chance for Childhood upholds a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of abuse, exploitation, andneglect.
All staff are required to adhere to our Global Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.
Comprehensive background checks, including police clearance and reference verification, will be conducted prior to employment.