Manager Programmes, Policy & Advocacy

Position Summary

EAWLS is seeking a strategic and experienced
Manager – Programmes, Policy & Advocacy
to lead its Programmes, advocacy & policy portfolio. Reporting to the Executive Director, the role provides leadership in shaping policyinfluence, delivering high-impact conservation programmes, and strengthening partnerships and institutional visibility across the region.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategicleadership for EAWLS’programmes, policy & advocacy, and portfolio, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities

Lead the design,implementation, and oversightof conservation programmes, ensuring quality delivery, impact, and compliance with donor requirements

Develop and driveadvocacy strategies to influence environmental policy, governance, and practice at national, regional, and international levels

Lead departmental budgeting and ensure efficient and accountable management of programme budgets.

Conduct and oversee policy research, analysis, and development of position papers, policy briefs, and advocacy materials

Build and manage strategic partnerships, coalitions, and multi-stakeholder platforms to advance EAWLS’ conservation agenda

Oversee monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) systems to track programme performance and inform decision-making

Secure and manage funding through proactive donor engagement, strong proposal development, and effective execution and reporting of donor-funded initiatives.

Provide leadership and mentorship to programme teams,fostering a high-performance and collaborative work environment

Represent EAWLS in key forums, networks, and policy platformsto enhance the organisation’s influence and visibility

Advise senior management on emerging policytrends, risks, and strategic opportunities in conservation and natural resource governance

Undertake any otherduties as may be assignedby the Executive Director.

Qualifications& Experience

The candidate must possess at least one Degree in any Environmental and or Conservation related studies which may include: Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science/Studies, Environmental Law, Climate Change, Marine Studies, Environmental Policy and Governance or a related field. A master’s degree is required in any relevant discipline that compliments the responsibilities of Manager Programmes, Policy & Advocacy.

Minimum 5years’ relevant experience in management roles in conservation, environmental policy advocacy, or programme leadership.

Proven track record in environmental policy analysis, advocacy strategy development, programme design/implementation, and oversight of multi-stakeholder platforms.

Demonstrated experience in resource mobilisation, fundraising, donor engagement, and financial management for large-scale projects.

Strong leadership experience managing multi-disciplinary teams and cross-functional projects.

Knowledge of MEAL systems,programme monitoring, and impact evaluation.

Strong knowledge of policy processes, political affairs, and regional/international governance frameworks in East Africa.

Core Competencies

Experienced in strategic leadership and programme management

Proven expertisein project design,development, and implementation

Advanced environmental advocacy and policy analysisand formulation skills

Effective stakeholder engagement, partnership and coalition-building ability

Proficient in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning(MEAL)

Experienced in fundraising, resourcemobilization and donor relationship management

Sound financialmanagement and budgeting skills

Strong networking, negotiation, and influencing capabilities

Excellent writtenand verbal communication skills

Strategic thinkingwith the abilityto solve problemsunder pressure

Analytical thinkingand results-driven decision-making