Manager Programs - Rural Livelihood in Bangalore | Azim Premji Foundation

Azim Premji Foundation

Azim Premji Foundation works towards a just, equitable, humane and sustainable society. It works closely with public schools and teachers in many states across India. It also supports civil society organisations through grants, reaching communities on issues such as livelihoods, health and the rights of vulnerable groups. Through this work, the Foundation stands behind people on the ground who are building better lives for marginalised communities.

Role

This role brings together grant-making, programme management and the design of new livelihood models that can grow to reach many more people. You will find, assess and support work across farm, off-farm, non-farm and forest-based livelihoods, carried out by civil society organisations, social enterprises and wider partnerships that use markets, local institutions and technology. The goal is steadier incomes and greater economic strength for marginalised rural communities. The role calls for a close understanding of life in rural areas, along with the ability to plan for change across whole systems.

Responsibilities

• Identify new trends, approaches and models in rural livelihoods that can grow, with a focus on more varied incomes, stronger value chains and economic inclusion.
• Guide thinking on farm businesses, non-farm enterprises, forest-based livelihoods and digital tools that help communities reach markets and financial services.
• Engage with civil society organisations working with small and marginal farmers, traditional artisans and other vulnerable communities, and help them deliver strong programmes.
• Manage the disbursal of high-impact grants as an individual grant-maker within the Foundation, and look after ongoing grant relationships.
• Check that grant proposals and programmes match the Foundation's values and due diligence processes.
• Support internal teams with knowledge building, programme design and grant implementation.
• Travel often to meet partners, field teams and communities.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Rural Development, Agriculture, Economics, Social Policy, Business Administration or a related field, though a Bachelor's degree with exceptional experience may also be considered.
• 7-15 years of experience in rural livelihoods, with a mix of grassroots work and strategic programme development.
• Experience managing large-scale rural livelihoods programmes or partnerships with civil society organisations.
• A strong understanding of value chains, agribusiness, non-farm and forest-based livelihoods, and sustainable development approaches.
• A track record of managing grants, mentoring teams and adding to learning and new ideas within an organisation.
• Strong analytical, project management, communication and people skills, with the drive to take initiative, work on your own and solve problems.
• Willingness to travel widely across rural areas, with the role based in Bengaluru.

Benefits

• Shape livelihood models that can grow to improve incomes for marginalised rural communities.
• Work alongside a wide network of civil society organisations, social enterprises and field teams.
• Make grant decisions in your own capacity and see the results of that support on the ground.

Apply

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