Saferworld Programme Development Manager Nairobi, Kampala or Bishkek

Saferworld is inviting applications for a Programme Development Manager position for experienced professionals with expertise in programme development, peace building, 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 Final date to receive applications 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 peace building 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.

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.
• 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.

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:

• European Union (EU)
• United Nations agencies
• Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida)

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.

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:

• 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…