Program Manager

The Program Manager role, based at the Head Office (ISD) with frequent travel to project sites across Punjab, offers a dynamic opportunity to lead the CF WRAP project. Reporting directly to the Head of Programs/Executive Director, the successful candidate will be responsible for the comprehensive planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of all project activities. This position emphasizes ensuring the effective execution of social mobilization efforts alongside technical construction works, including recharge wells, rainwater harvesting systems, and observation wells. The Program Manager will work closely with communities, local institutions, and government departments to promote sustainable water conservation and management practices.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the overall planning, execution, monitoring, and reporting of the CF WRAP project to ensure timely achievement of objectives within budget. Oversee the delivery of construction activities such as recharge wells, rainwater harvesting systems, and observation wells, ensuring high quality and adherence to technical standards. Coordinate and supervise social mobilization efforts, including awareness sessions, consultations, and trainings, to foster strong community engagement. Develop and maintain detailed work plans, budgets, and procurement schedules to support smooth project implementation.

Manage engineering works with strict compliance to technical and environmental safeguards, implementing quality control and safety protocols throughout construction phases. Facilitate effective coordination among field engineers, contractors, and community members. Guide social mobilizers in building community ownership and participation in water conservation initiatives, with a focus on actively engaging women, youth, and local leaders in water governance activities.

Support the formation and strengthening of community water user groups to ensure long-term sustainability. Act as the primary liaison with donors, government authorities, and local stakeholders, establishing linkages to secure necessary permissions and promote the sustainability of constructed systems. Represent the project during donor reviews, meetings, and external forums. Ensure accurate data collection related to water recharge, community participation, and key performance indicators, preparing and submitting progress reports, variance analyses, and donor documentation on time.

Monitor project risks and challenges, recommending adaptive strategies as needed. Supervise and mentor project staff, including engineers, social mobilizers, and administrative/finance personnel. Conduct regular staff performance reviews and facilitate capacity-building initiatives while fostering a safe, inclusive, and collaborative team culture.

Required Qualifications

A Master’s degree in Project Management, Social Sciences, Civil or Environmental Engineering, or a related field is required. Candidates should have 10 to 12 years of project management experience, preferably in nature-based solutions, water resource management, community mobilization, development, or WASH-related projects. Proven experience in community infrastructure development and supervision is essential. Strong expertise in community mobilization with demonstrated ability to engage women, youth, and local leadership effectively is required.

Experience in preparing and managing budgets, work plans, and donor reporting is necessary. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to liaise successfully with government agencies, donors, and multiple stakeholders. Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills are critical. Proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and project management tools is expected. A willingness to travel frequently to field sites is essential.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

This position is offered on a contract basis for seven months. Work will be conducted primarily at the Head Office with regular travel to project locations in Punjab. Benefits will be provided in accordance with staff policies and organizational guidelines. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis, and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply promptly.