Director Programmes

Position Summary

The Director – Programmes will play a critical leadership role in shaping and implementing the organisation's vision for impact in environmental conservation and sustainable, socially just development. This role involves providing intellectual and managerial direction, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence, and ensuring strategic coherence and high impact across programmes. The Director will also build and nurture collaborations, oversee monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems, and support resource mobilisation.

The position will work closely with the Academy for Conservation Science and Sustainability Studies, the Development Office, and the Communications teams.

This is a full-time position, based in Bengaluru, India and reports to the Executive Director.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Programme Development

• Lead the realisation of the organisation's vision and strategic plan by overseeing the design, execution, and integration of programmes.
• Prioritise integrated impact pathways through research, action, capacity building, and policy engagement.
• Foster cross-cutting and interdisciplinary initiatives within and across programmes.
• Establish and oversee a robust MEL framework to track scientific quality and measure outcomes and impact.
• Work actively with the Development Office to generate funds for long-term strategic priorities and donor stewardship.

Talent Development and Mentorship

• Identify and recruit Fellows and senior technical staff aligned with the organisation's programmatic needs and future directions.
• Provide mentorship to early-career researchers, technical staff, and Fellows.

Partnerships and Representation

• Represent the organisation in national/international scientific, policy, and practitioner forums.
• Build strategic alliances with research institutions, government agencies, technology providers, and donors.
• Amplify the visibility and influence of the organisation's work among stakeholders and the broader public.

Institutional Governance and Policy

• Participate in institutional planning and budgeting processes.
• Review and recommend research and programme-related policies, including those related to recruitment, evaluation, and promotion of Fellows.

Desired Qualifications and Attributes

Qualifications

• PhD in ecology, environmental science, sustainability studies, or a related interdisciplinary field.
• At least 15+ years of relevant experience in applied research, with a proven track record in programme leadership.
• Strong publication record and evidence of translating research into policy or practice.

Attributes

• Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational rigour and excellence.
• Proven experience in managing large, interdisciplinary teams and research portfolios.
• Deep understanding of action research approaches and stakeholder engagement
• Strong network among national and international academic, policy, and science-focused donor communities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising for multiple projects and institutional development.
• Familiarity with MEL frameworks and outcome-based research planning.
• Ability to foster an inclusive and collaborative organisational culture.