Welfare & Self‑Reliance Manager – Lae, Papua New Guinea

About the role

The Welfare & Self‑Reliance Department is seeking a permanent manager based in Lae to serve as the primary liaison for area and local church leaders. The role focuses on training, consultation and delivering welfare and self‑reliance resources to support individuals, families and community initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Train and support church leaders on welfare and self‑reliance needs, delivering groups, education, family services, humanitarian aid and emergency response.
• Develop resources in partnership with government agencies, NGOs, educational institutions and community groups for the benefit of members and the wider community.
• Design, implement and manage educational programmes such as Local Learning Centres, PathwayConnect, EnglishConnect and scholarship initiatives, and negotiate MOUs with education providers.
• Coordinate humanitarian services, assist units in creating emergency response plans and promote preparedness.
• Collaborate with Family Services to provide behavioural health and wellness support to leaders and members.
• Lead the Careers Initiative, working with young adults to connect them with purposeful education and employment opportunities.
• Recruit, develop and supervise a support team of full‑time staff, missionaries and volunteers.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred) with at least six years of professional experience, including two years in a management role.
• Proven ability to work with senior leaders and diverse stakeholders, building trust and influencing outcomes.
• Experience as a trainer, facilitator and communicator, able to convey complex ideas clearly.
• Background in church leadership and a solid understanding of Welfare & Self‑Reliance principles.
• High initiative, sound judgment, emotional maturity and executive presence.
• Strong analytical, creative and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, proficient with personal computing, and willingness to travel and operate in a mobile office.
• Legal right to work in Papua New Guinea and willingness to undergo a police background check.

Required skills