Program Lead

About the Role

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Program Lead to drive implementation of a multi-thematic programme focused on the rights, protection, and wellbeing of migrant and informal workers in India. The role sits at the intersection of social protection, labour rights, and climate resilience and requires someone equally comfortable in the field as they are in a boardroom.

You will report to a Senior Program Lead and take end-to-end ownership of programme delivery, team management, stakeholder engagement, and evidence generation.

Key Responsibilities

Programme Implementation

• Lead design and delivery of programme activities spanning social security entitlements, worker protection, and government/industry engagement
• Build, refine, and institutionalise the systems and processes that underpin programme operations
• Oversee day-to-day field operations, ensuring outputs and outcomes are achieved on time and to quality

Climate Resilience

• Spearhead climate-related pilots and field interventions, including innovation lab programmes
• Drive government and city-level engagement to align climate interventions with local systems and priorities
• Support field research to generate evidence informing climate-responsive, worker-centric programme design

Research & Learning

• Partner with the MEL team to analyse data, track progress, and continuously refine programme activities
• Collaborate with research teams to co-design and implement field studies that deepen understanding of migrant communities
• Produce knowledge products and represent the organisation at conferences, seminars, and sector forums

Team & Stakeholder Management

• Hire, train, coach, and supervise programme team members
• Liaise across internal teams, including Partnerships and Communications — to ensure seamless programme delivery
• Build and sustain relationships with government bodies, city authorities, community institutions, and other key stakeholders

Qualifications & Experience

• Master's degree or higher in rural development, public policy, social science, or a related discipline
• 2–5 years of experience designing and delivering development programmes
• Prior experience with NGOs, philanthropic foundations, or development consulting organisations preferred
• Exposure to multi-stakeholder platforms, government systems, or urban programmes is an advantage
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• High proficiency in English and Hindi (written and spoken); additional Indian languages a plus

Interpersonal Skills

• Strong leader with proven ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Deep field orientation and genuine empathy for the communities the programme serves
• Composed under pressure; able to navigate complex situations with clarity
• Culturally adaptable and quick to embrace the values and ethos of the organization
• Skilled coach and motivator with a track record of building high-performing teams
• Strong networker with the ability to engage credibly across government, civil society, and donor audiences