Head of Programs – Lead ChildFund PNG Portfolio

About the role

The Head of Programs provides strategic and operational leadership for ChildFund PNG’s program portfolio, ensuring high‑quality, evidence‑based interventions that deliver sustainable outcomes for children and young people. Reporting to the Country Director, this senior role oversees program design, implementation, quality assurance, MEAL, partnerships and resource mobilisation.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of the entire program portfolio, aligning it with ChildFund’s strategy, donor requirements and national priorities.
• Lead program design and development, ensuring evidence‑based concepts, clear theories of change and integration of cross‑cutting priorities such as GEDSI, safeguarding and climate resilience.
• Monitor program performance, manage risks, and implement corrective actions to keep projects on track and within budget.
• Strengthen partnerships with government, donors, national NGOs and community stakeholders, promoting localisation and shared accountability.
• Oversee MEAL integration, ensuring data and learning drive continuous improvement and impact measurement.

Required profile

• Significant senior‑level experience leading multi‑sector program portfolios in international development or humanitarian contexts.
• Strong understanding of MEAL systems, safeguarding, child protection, GEDSI and climate‑resilience frameworks.
• Proven ability to manage large, multidisciplinary teams and foster a culture of ownership, accountability and learning.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills with donors, government agencies and local partners.