Field Operations and Partnering Manager

About the role

World Vision Malawi is looking for a Field Operations and Partnering Manager based in Lilongwe. The role provides strategic leadership and oversight of field operations, programme implementation and the partnership portfolio, ensuring high-quality, locally led, gender-responsive and climate-resilient programmes that support the National Strategy, the Tsogolo Strategic Framework and organizational priorities. It reports to the Director of Programmes and sits on the Programme Management Team. This is a local, fixed-term position.

Key responsibilities

• Strategic leadership of the National Strategy and Tsogolo IPF across field operations, including operational planning, implementation, monitoring and performance management, and driving accountability, efficiency and value for money.
• Lead the partnership and localization agenda, build and maintain partnerships with government, local NGOs, faith actors, community structures, the private sector and development partners, strengthen partner capacity and represent the organization in coordination, policy and technical forums.
• Ensure quality standards across design, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and reporting, and strengthen community accountability, safeguarding, gender equality, disability inclusion and climate resilience.
• Strengthen government, community and partner systems, lead sustainability and transition planning, and ensure risk management, safeguarding, compliance and resource stewardship.
• Lead, mentor and develop Area Programme Managers and field leadership teams, supporting talent development, succession planning and staff well-being.

Required profile

• Master's degree in Development Studies, Project Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, International Development, Social Sciences or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in senior programme management, field operations, partnership management or development programming.
• At least 5 years of leadership experience managing large multidisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing multi-sector development programmes in a complex NGO environment, and experience working with government, local organizations, faith-based partners and development stakeholders.
• Experience leading geographically dispersed programme teams; knowledge of Malawi's development context and NGO environment.
• Experience in World Vision or a similar international development organization is highly desirable.
• Applicants must be local.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of localization, systems strengthening, community development and resilience programming.
• Relevant professional certification in programme management or leadership is an added advantage.