Director of Programs

About the Organization

BPN (Business Professionals Network) is a Swiss non-profit organization committed to strengthening entrepreneurship and supporting the growth of SMEs to create jobs and reduce poverty. Through coaching, training, and access to networks and finance, BPN enables entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Director of Programs to lead and scale BPN Rwanda's program portfolio.

This is a senior leadership role responsible for translating strategy into impactful programs, ensuring high-quality delivery, and driving measurable outcomes across entrepreneurship support initiatives.

You will sit on the Senior Management Team (SMT) and work closely with the Country Director and other functional leaders to ensure alignment between strategy, operations, and impact.

Key Responsibilities

1. Program Leadership & Strategy

• Translate organizational strategy into actionable program priorities
• Oversee program design, implementation, and performance
• Ensure delivery within budget and strategic frameworks
• Drive monitoring, evaluation, and impact measurement systems
• Manage risks and ensure compliance with policies and donor requirements

2. Service Delivery & Quality

• Ensure high-quality delivery across coaching, training, and SME support services
• Improve efficiency and effectiveness of program operations
• Lead continuous improvement and innovation across services
• Engage with partners and stakeholders in program design

3. Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and develop Heads of Department and program teams
• Set KPIs and oversee performance management
• Build a high-performance, collaborative culture
• Support leadership development and succession planning

Profile We're Looking For

Experience

• 10+ years in program management, ideally in entrepreneurship, SME support, or development
• 5+ years in a senior leadership role
• Experience managing donor-funded programs and compliance

Education

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, or related field

Key Skills

• Strong strategic and operational leadership
• Proven ability to manage complex program portfolios
• Financial and budget oversight experience
• Data-driven decision-making and performance tracking
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills

Mindset

• Entrepreneurial and impact-driven
• High ownership and accountability
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Committed to continuous learning and growth

Why This Role Matters

This is a high-impact leadership role at the intersection of entrepreneurship, economic development, and systems change in Rwanda.

You will directly shape how SMEs are supported at scale — influencing job creation, business growth, and long-term economic resilience.