Program Manager - Education

Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA) seeks a Country Lead and Director of Policy for its Rwanda office. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing IPA’s research and policy activities in Rwanda, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission to discover and promote effective solutions to global poverty problems. The Director will lead a team of researchers, policy analysts, and field staff, designing and implementing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and other quantitative research projects. Key responsibilities include managing partnerships with local and international stakeholders, such as governments, nonprofits, academic institutions, and foundations, to design and evaluate poverty alleviation programs. The Director will also play a critical role in translating research findings into actionable policy recommendations for policymakers and practitioners. Additionally, the role involves fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and representing IPA at high-level meetings and conferences. The Director will report directly to IPA’s global leadership team and work closely with the Rwanda country team to ensure the successful execution of IPA’s research agenda.

Master’s degree in economics, public policy, international development, or a related field; PhD preferred; Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in research, policy analysis, or program management within the development sector; Proven track record of designing and implementing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or other rigorous impact evaluations; Experience working with governments, NGOs, or academic institutions in Rwanda or East Africa; Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Stata, R, or Python); Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Fluency in Kinyarwanda or French is highly desirable; Demonstrated leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams; Experience in fundraising and donor relations; Commitment to IPA’s mission of evidence-based poverty alleviation.