Program Manager

 The position holder will be responsible for the provision of Programme Management support which includes strategic management, business development research operations, and administrative support to a portfolio of projects within a research theme. S/he will coordinate the management of the research activities within a research theme with the support of project managers, officers, and administrators.

 S/he will guide and supervise Grants Officers to facilitate the harmonization of activities across projects and with external stakeholders to maximize project outputs. In addition, s/he will have a holistic view of the program across a research theme and ensure program coordination, management, administration, compliance, and synergies.

 S/he will act under the guidance of MRC/UVRI&LSHTM policies and procedures and refer major project decisions to the Head of RSO, and Theme Leader. S/he will coordinate the daily activities of research projects with the support of Project Officers and Administrators aimed at delivering a well-functioning management service within a research theme. S/he will be the interface between the themes with the RSO and will lead in initiating all pre-award activities with the pre-award team.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree in a relevant field or first degree with significant experience in research or project management;
  
• Prince2 Practitioner certificate is desirable;
  
• Must have proven experience in managing research projects and teams;
  
• Should possess excellent financial management skills;
  
• Advance resource management skills;
  
• Able to build strong relationships with implementing partners and stakeholders focused on strengthening strategic alliances and reporting project progress;
  
• Actively work towards continuing personal learning and development;
  
• Must be familiar with the research environment and managing post-award research activities;
  
• Must have an excellent understanding of budgeting and preparing forecasts for research projects;
  
• Advanced knowledge of operations management and operational requirements of research projects;
  
• Excellent program coordination, project management, and time management skills;
  
• Must be result-driven and service-oriented; and,
  
• Excellent communication skills – both written and oral, coaching and facilitation skills.