Vacancy: Programme Manager (Training & Research)
The African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, is broadening the scope of its Early-Career Research (ECR) Fellowship program. This initiative seeks to enhance the research capabilities of early-career researchers at African universities by granting them dedicated time away from their teaching duties. This opportunity enables fellows to work closely with renowned researchers at the ARUA Centres of Excellence (CoEs). Also, each CoE will host fellows from different universities/countries, promoting cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange across the continent.
Reporting to: Director (Training and Research)
The remuneration will be competitive.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Assist the reporting officer in developing and managing the program roadmap, including preparing quarterly and annual program reports.
- Oversee financial reporting in collaboration with the ARUA Satellite Office at the University of Witwatersrand.
- Coordinate program activities (e.g., training workshops and conferences) across host and affiliated institutions to facilitate cross-country fellow placements.
- Provide operational support to fellows, including facilitating mentorship opportunities with senior researchers at the ARUA Centres of Excellence.
- Manage the program’s budget to support fellows’ research, travel, and collaboration needs while ensuring financial accountability.
- Ensure effective communication, reporting, and stakeholder engagement throughout the programme lifecycle.
- Monitor progress against program objectives, track fellows’ research outputs and collaborations, and prepare regular reports for funders and governance bodies.
- Identify and address risks related to program delivery, such as delays, safeguarding, or cross-institutional challenges.
- Undertake any other responsibilities assigned by the supervising officer and the Secretary-General
Qualifications
- A minimum of a master’s degree in a relevant field such as project management, public administration, education, research management, or a related discipline. A PhD is an added advantage.
- At least 5 years of experience in program management, preferably within academic or research settings.
- Demonstrated success in managing large-scale, multi-stakeholder projects, especially those involving international collaboration.
- Knowledge of, or experience with, research and higher education systems in Africa is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with donor-funded programs and proven experience in budget management.
- Ability to work independently while promoting effective teamwork among diverse stakeholders.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with funders, researchers, and host institutions.
- Eligible women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Project Location
- The position is based in Accra and is full-time, with opportunities for travel across ARUA member universities.
How to Apply
- Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications via email to: info@arua.com
- There will be an initial 1-year probationary appointment, followed by a full-time 2-year appointment subject to performance.
- Applications must include a cover letter (highlighting how the applicant meets the qualifications), a curriculum vitae, and contact details for two referees.
- The deadline for applications is 15 May 2025.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 30 May 2025.
Start date: August 2025 (negotiable)
