Saferworld is inviting applications for a Programme Development Manager position for experienced professionals with expertise in programme development, peacebuilding, donor engagement and locally led change.
The role offers an opportunity to work with civil society partners and country teams to develop and mobilise funding for programmes focused on peace, security and justice.
The position is available in London, Nairobi, Kampala and Bishkek, while other locations may be considered in countries where Saferworld has a presence.
The application deadline is 6 October 2026.
The Programme Development Manager will join Saferworld’s Funding and Programme Development Team and support a portfolio of country teams in co-designing programmes and mobilising funding alongside local partners.
The successful candidate will focus on approximately three to four countries, with the countries determined based on the candidate’s experience and preferences.
Working with Regional Directors, Country Managers, programme colleagues and grant management teams, the Programme Development Manager will help develop high-quality peacebuilding programmes while supporting donor engagement and long-term funding strategies.
The role is particularly suited to professionals who understand participatory programme design and can translate local priorities and evidence into strong programme proposals.
Key Responsibilities
The Programme Development Manager will take a leading role in coordinating and facilitating programme co-design processes with partners and country teams.
Key responsibilities include:
- Facilitating participatory programme co-design processes.
- Drafting high-quality concept notes and funding proposals.
- Developing theories of change and logical models.
- Preparing risk matrices and programme budgets.
- Developing and supporting long-term country funding strategies.
- Supporting new donor engagement.
- Maintaining relationships with existing donors.
- Managing funding portfolios across institutional and non-institutional donors.
- Working closely with regional and country-level teams to ensure programme approaches are strategically aligned.
- Supporting programmes that are contextually relevant and responsive to local priorities.
The successful candidate will therefore combine programme development expertise with strong coordination, facilitation, writing and relationship-management skills.
Donor Experience
Saferworld is particularly interested in candidates who have a strong track record of programme development and new business development with institutional donors.
Relevant donor experience may include working with organisations such as:
- Global Affairs Canada (GAC)
- UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- European Union (EU)
- United Nations agencies
- Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida)
- European government donors
Experience mobilising resources from trusts, foundations and other non-traditional funding mechanisms is also desirable.
Applicants with experience managing complex funding portfolios and developing successful donor relationships may be well aligned with the requirements of the position.
Skills and Experience Required
Strong applicants are expected to demonstrate proven programme experience, including experience in areas such as project management or programme support.
Candidates should be able to lead and contribute to high-quality programme design processes and coordinate complex activities involving multiple stakeholders.
Important capabilities include:
- Programme development experience.
- Experience leading new business development efforts.
- Strong proposal and concept-note writing skills.
- Experience facilitating participatory co-creation processes.
- Ability to work collaboratively with civil society partners.
- Strong understanding of programme quality.
- Ability to develop theories of change, logical models, risk matrices and budgets.
- Strong coordination and organisational skills.
- Experience engaging with institutional donors.
- Ability to ensure proposals are contextually relevant and strategically aligned.
The role calls for someone who can work collaboratively while also taking responsibility for driving programme development processes forward.
About Saferworld
Saferworld is an international organisation working on conflict prevention and peacebuilding through programming, policy and practice.
The organisation works with institutions and partners across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Europe to address factors contributing to violent conflict, injustice and insecurity.
Saferworld also participates in global policy discussions on peace, justice and security and works to influence policy and practice.
The Programme Development Manager will therefore join an organisation working across multiple countries and engaging with a range of partners, donors and institutions.
Salary and Contract
The Programme Development Manager position is a 12-month fixed-term, full-time role.
The advertised salary under the UK pay structure is £43,800 per annum. However, Saferworld states that the applicable salary will depend on the applicant’s location, with the national salary structure of the relevant country applying.
The advertised locations are:
- London, United Kingdom
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Kampala, Uganda
- Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Other locations may also be considered in countries where Saferworld has a presence.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 6 October 2026.
Saferworld has indicated that interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 12 October 2026.
Applicants should submit their applications before the deadline and review the official job description and recruitment information carefully before applying.
Have You Applied?
Professionals with experience in programme development, peacebuilding, donor engagement and participatory programme design can consider applying for the Saferworld Programme Development Manager position.
The role provides an opportunity to work alongside civil society partners and country teams while contributing to the development and mobilisation of funding for peace, security and justice programmes.
Before applying, candidates should carefully review the official vacancy information to confirm the location, salary arrangements, responsibilities and application requirements applicable to them.
