Programs Lead

Full-Time | Kisii, Kenya | Reports to Executive Director

Organization

GRACE Initiative

Location

Kisii, Kenya

Reports To

Executive Director

Employment Type

Full-Time

Application Deadline

21st April 2026

ABOUT GRACE INITIATIVE

GRACE Initiative is a mission-driven organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children and communities in Kenya. Through integrated programs in Education, School Health & Nutrition, and Sustainable Agriculture, GRACE delivers innovative, scalable solutions that empower students from primary through senior school to achieve their full potential.

Working closely with local and international partners, GRACE operates in Kisii County with a growing footprint across multiple thematic areas, including STEM & Robotics, reading and global exchange programs, entrepreneurship, school feeding, and sustainable farming initiatives. GRACE is committed to building a future where every child and community can thrive.

POSITION OVERVIEW

GRACE Initiative is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and mission-aligned Programs Lead to provide hands-on leadership and coordination of its core programs. This is a senior individual contributor and team leadership role responsible for the quality, coherence, and impact of GRACE's programmatic work across all thematic areas.

The Programs Lead will work closely with the Executive Director to translate GRACE's strategic vision into effective program delivery on the ground, while managing partnerships, donor relationships, and a committed team of program staff.

This role is ideal for a development professional who combines strategic thinking with practical implementation experience, and who is passionate about education, community health, and sustainable livelihoods in rural Kenya.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Program Leadership & Coordination

Lead the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of GRACE's integrated programs across Education, School Health & Nutrition, and Sustainable Agriculture

Ensure coherence and integration across all program areas for maximum community impact

Develop annual workplans, activity schedules, and program budgets in collaboration with the Executive Director

Monitor program activities against set targets and course-correct where necessary

2. Education Program Oversight

Oversee operations of GRACE's primary and junior secondary school, ensuring quality teaching and learning outcomes

Strengthen supplemental learning initiatives including STEM & Robotics, reading and global exchange programs, and entrepreneurship and innovation activities

Ensure curriculum alignment with national educational standards and global best practices

Liaise with school leadership, teachers, and the Ministry of Education as required

3. Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL)

Design and implement a robust MEL framework spanning all program areas

Track program outcomes, beneficiary reach, and impact metrics consistently

Prepare timely, high-quality program reports for internal leadership and external stakeholders including donors

Apply learning from data to strengthen program design and delivery

4. Donor Relations & Business Development

Manage relationships with international donors, academic partners, and implementing organizations

Support the development of funding proposals, concept notes, and grant applications

Ensure full compliance with donor requirements, reporting standards, and grant management protocols

Actively identify new funding opportunities aligned with GRACE's strategic priorities

5. Team Leadership & Capacity Building

Lead, supervise, and mentor program staff across all thematic areas

Build a high-performing, accountable, and mission-driven program team

Conduct regular team reviews, provide constructive feedback, and support staff development

Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the programs team

6. Stakeholder & Community Engagement

Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, local communities, government departments, and partner organizations

Represent GRACE Initiative in relevant forums, networks, and county-level coordination meetings

Ensure programs remain responsive to community needs, culturally appropriate, and locally owned

Create opportunities for media coverage, learning dissemination, and GRACE's visibility in the sector

7. Financial & Operational Oversight

Oversee program budgets and ensure responsible, compliant expenditure across all thematic areas

Collaborate with the finance and operations team to ensure efficient and timely program delivery

Review and approve program-related expenditures within agreed authorization levels

Provide monthly financial and operational updates to the Executive Director

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education, Development Studies, Public Health, Agriculture, or a related field required

Experience

Minimum 3–6 years of progressive experience in the same role within an NGO, foundation, or development organization

Demonstrated experience managing multi-sector programs, with preference for candidates with exposure to education, health, or agriculture

Proven track record working with donor-funded programs and meeting grant reporting requirements

Experience working with or within school systems (primary to senior school level) is highly desirable

Previous supervisory or team leadership experience is required

Skills & Competencies

Strong program design, planning, and implementation skills

Solid experience with monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks

Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Swahili proficiency is an advantage

Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently with minimal supervision

Financial literacy and experience overseeing program budgets

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with diverse stakeholders

High level of integrity, accountability, and commitment to GRACE's mission and values

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