Programme Director - SEL in Foundational Learning

Please note that this is a fully remote position. Candidates from low- and middle-income countries are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Initiative

The SEL in Foundational Learning initiative has been established by Porticus, in collaboration with other key foundations. The goal is to strengthen the evidence base for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) as a key component of Foundational Learning. The overall initiative will develop a shared research agenda and establish funding mechanisms to commission targeted research that addresses critical gaps in SEL at scale, with a focus on Global South contexts.

This is a unique opportunity to work alongside influential funders and researchers, fostering collaboration and driving measurable impact in the global education sector.

The Role

This research agenda will be focused on Global South contexts, and we strongly encourage applicants from low- and middle-income countries to apply. Fully remote position.

This newly established philanthropic Fund will be hosted by the Swiss Philanthropy Foundation. The Programme Director will report to the Chair of the Coordination Group, which includes Porticus and other participating donors. The Coordination Group serves as the decision-making body, overseeing the initiative's strategic direction and grantmaking activities.

As the Programme Director, you will serve as the lead staff member for the initiative and will drive the strategic direction and overall management of the initiative. Your responsibilities will include overseeing the development and implementation of the Research Agenda and facilitating co-funding and collaboration among multiple stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Research Oversight:

• Facilitate a highly participatory process working with a network of experts, primarily from the Global South, to develop a Research Agenda and secure its approval.
• Manage research commissioning and grant-making processes in alignment with research priorities.

Programme Management:

• Support the Coordination Group, ensuring effective governance, regular meetings, and strategic guidance.
• Liaise with Swiss Philanthropy Foundation on grant management, budgeting, financial reporting.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy:

• Foster partnerships with funders, donors, and stakeholders to align and support SEL research priorities.
• Champion the initiative globally, advocating for SEL research.

About You

With a strong understanding of research and SEL, you are likely to have a proven track record in many of the following areas:

• Experience and professional credibility to represent the initiative at a senior level.
• Master’s degree or higher in Education, Social Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience within an international development context focused on education.
• Experience of commissioning education research and grant management.
• Strong understanding of SEL principles and practices.
• Extensive experience working in the Global South and addressing educational needs in diverse cultural settings.
• Experience working with research experts.
• Ability to think and act on a strategic level.
• Experience of building and maintaining partnerships and networks in changing contexts.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with fluency in English required. Proficiency in an additional language, such as Spanish, French, or Portuguese, is highly desirable.
• The ability to travel in person for coordination meetings as required (flexibility for international travel approximately 2-4 times per year).

Given the international locations of both donors and researchers, the work base of the Programme Director will be home based. Flexibility in working hours to accommodate meetings across global time zones will be required.

The role is a full-time, 2-year contract (potential for extension). Compensation for this role will be competitive and commensurate with experience, reflecting the significance and scope of the position.