Job Position: Program Manager
Nature of Job: Full-Time, Onsite.
Location: Abuja
Organization: International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES)
Field Office: Nigeria
Reports to: Country Director
Experience: Minimum of 6 years
Qualification: BA/BSc/HND in relevant field.
Sector: Democracy, Governance & International Development
Category: Program Administration & Project Leadership
Travel: Limited (within Nigeria)
The Role:
We’re on the lookout for a dynamic Program Manager who thrives at the intersection of leadership, innovation, and impact. In this role, you’ll be the driving force behind the smooth planning, execution, and monitoring of IFES-Nigeria’s projects, ensuring that every initiative leaves a lasting footprint in democracy and governance development.
You’ll work closely with the Country Director, transforming ideas into powerful results while coordinating resources, activities, and reports that reflect excellence and precision.
What you’ll do:
Program & Strategy
Partner with the Country Director to design and deliver meaningful programs that shape governance and civic engagement.
Craft crisp reports and event summaries that feed into donor deliverables and quarterly performance updates.
Innovate solutions to challenges that arise during implementation and keep activities running seamlessly.
Prepare key meeting documents, invitations, materials, and agendas, that move projects forward.
Contribute creative insights for new initiatives and support consultants engaged on project activities.
Maintain meticulous documentation and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Monitoring & Evaluation:
Collaborate with the M&E Consultant to build data-driven frameworks that measure real impact.
Support the gathering, analysis, and reporting of project results and indicators.
Ensure that all data collection and field activities are properly coordinated and reported with accuracy and timeliness.
Administration & Operations:
Handle event logistics from start to finish, venue sourcing, participant management, and financial follow-ups.
Make sure every IFES activity meets essential safety and security standards.
Keep the organization running smoothly with efficient administrative processes and support services.
Help maintain up-to-date health and security briefings for the team.
Take on special tasks assigned by the Country Director with initiative and precision.
Qualifications:
A degree in Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, Development Studies, or a related field.
At least 6 years of solid experience in program management, administration, or procurement, ideally within international NGOs or donor-funded projects (EU, FCDO, etc.).
Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).
Exceptional multitasking, organization, and communication skills.
A natural problem-solver with an eye for detail and the discipline to meet deadlines independently.
Integrity, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
A collaborative spirit and readiness to adapt in a fast-paced international environment.
Language & Travel:
Fluency in English is a must.
Occasional travel within Nigeria is required.
Why Join IFES?
At IFES, every project tells a story of progress, a story you could help write. You’ll be working with passionate experts committed to strengthening democracy and governance in Nigeria and beyond. It’s not just a job, it’s an opportunity to make impact on a global scale while growing professionally in a supportive environment.
Method of Application:
Interested and qualified candidates should forward their CV to: sjah@ifes.org using the position as subject of email.
Deadline: Nov 7, 2025
