BRAC International Seeks a Head of Programmes in Kenya 2026: Senior NGO Leadership Opportunity in Nairobi @Unknown

BRAC International (BI) has announced an exciting career opportunity for an experienced development professional to serve as Head of Programmes, BRAC Maendeleo Kenya.

Based in Nairobi, Kenya, the position will lead the establishment and early growth phase of BRAC International’s newest country programme, supporting the organisation’s expansion, partnerships, systems development, and programme delivery.

This senior leadership opportunity is ideal for professionals with extensive experience in international development, NGO management, programme operations, fundraising, and country office establishment.

The application deadline is 20 August 2026.

Head of Programmes Position Overview

The Head of Programmes, BRAC Maendeleo Kenya will provide strategic, operational, and programmatic leadership as BRAC International builds its presence in Kenya.

The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing the foundations of a new country office, including:

• Developing operational systems
• Supporting legal and governance structures
• Building a high-performing team
• Strengthening programme delivery
• Expanding partnerships and funding opportunities
• Representing BRAC International with government institutions, donors, and development partners

The role is designed as a growth pathway toward a future Country Director position, providing an opportunity for an experienced leader to shape BRAC’s long-term impact in Kenya.

Head of Programmes: Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Country Office Establishment

The Head of Programmes will provide overall strategic direction for BRAC International’s work in Kenya and support the development of a sustainable country programme.

Key duties include:

• Leading the establishment of BRAC International’s operational presence in Kenya
• Supporting registration, governance, banking, and regulatory compliance processes
• Developing country strategies, annual plans, and programme priorities
• Creating a roadmap for transitioning from an initial programme into a fully established country office
• Representing BRAC International in engagements with government, donors, partners, and stakeholders
• Ensuring alignment between Kenya operations, the Africa Regional Office, and BRAC International headquarters

The successful candidate will play a critical role in building BRAC’s reputation and partnerships from the ground up.

Financial, Operational and Risk Management

The Head of Programmes will oversee the development of strong financial and operational systems required for a growing country office.

Responsibilities include:

• Ensuring programmes operate within approved budgets
• Strengthening financial accountability and resource management
• Identifying and managing operational, financial, compliance, and reputational risks
• Ensuring compliance with BRAC policies, donor requirements, and Kenyan regulations
• Establishing systems and controls that support responsible programme expansion

The role requires strong experience managing complex development operations and ensuring effective use of resources.

Programme Performance, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning

The successful applicant will oversee programme quality, impact measurement, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing programme performance against targets and strategic priorities
• Supporting the establishment of Learning and Effectiveness systems
• Promoting evidence-based decision-making
• Documenting programme achievements, lessons, and challenges
• Supporting knowledge-sharing across BRAC International teams

The position will ensure that BRAC Kenya programmes generate measurable and sustainable impact.

Fundraising, Partnerships and External Engagement

A major responsibility of the role will involve developing relationships that support BRAC’s growth in Kenya.

The Head of Programmes will:

• Build partnerships with donors, government agencies, private sector organisations, and development actors
• Represent BRAC International at relevant forums and meetings
• Strengthen organisational visibility and credibility
• Support fundraising efforts and development of a sustainable programme pipeline

Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills will be essential.

Team Leadership and Staff Development

The role will involve recruiting, mentoring, and managing teams as BRAC Kenya expands.

The successful candidate will:

• Build and lead programme teams
• Promote accountability, collaboration, and innovation
• Develop staff capacity through coaching and mentorship
• Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations

BRAC is seeking a leader who can inspire teams while working effectively within a start-up environment.

Head of Programmes: Safeguarding, Safety and Inclusion

The Head of Programmes will ensure safeguarding principles are integrated into all aspects of BRAC Kenya’s operations.

Responsibilities include:

• Promoting safe and respectful workplaces
• Ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies
• Supporting reporting and response mechanisms
• Building awareness of safeguarding responsibilities among staff and partners

BRAC International is committed to protecting children, young people, adults, and communities from harm, exploitation, and abuse.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should have:

• A university degree in development studies, business, education, social sciences, or related fields
• A postgraduate qualification is an added advantage
• Strong knowledge of Kenya’s development sector
• Experience working on programmes related to poverty reduction, livelihoods, women’s empowerment, or community development

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to establish and manage organisations in complex environments.

Required Skills and Experience

BRAC International is looking for candidates with:

• 7–10 years of management experience in NGOs, humanitarian organisations, or development programmes
• Experience establishing, registering, or scaling country programmes or offices
• Strong financial and operational management skills
• Experience developing monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems
• Proven ability to lead large and diverse teams
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Experience managing partnerships and external relationships

Applicants should be comfortable working in dynamic environments requiring flexibility, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking.

About BRAC International

BRAC International is a leading nonprofit organisation dedicated to creating opportunities for people living in poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.

Founded in Bangladesh in 1972, BRAC has grown into one of the world’s largest development organisations, reaching more than 100 million people globally.

The organisation currently operates across countries in Asia and Africa, delivering programmes focused on:

• Economic empowerment
• Education
• Health
• Social development
• Community resilience

BRAC International’s work is guided by four core values:

• Integrity – Working with honesty and transparency
• Innovation – Continuously improving solutions
• Inclusiveness – Ensuring vulnerable communities are reached
• Effectiveness – Maximising impact for communities

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application before:

Deadline: 20 August 2026

Applicants may apply through the official recruitment process or submit a CV, cover letter, and supporting documents via email.

Candidates should include:

• Academic background
• Career summary
• Core competencies
• Professional certifications (where applicable)

Female candidates are especially encouraged to apply.

Position: Head of Programmes, BRAC Maendeleo Kenya
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Organisation: BRAC International
Job Level: Senior Level (10+ Years Experience)

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organisation offering this opportunity. For application details and inquiries, contact BRAC International directly. Please do not send applications or CVs to GSO.

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