Program Design Manager

Who we are

Together for freedom and justice: Until all are free!
International Justice Mission (IJM) works worldwide to free people from slavery, to protect women and children from physical and sexual violence, to hold perpetrators accountable and to strengthen justice systems. Together we form an unstoppable movement for justice.

We are committed to quality, professionalism and excellence. We work in a results-oriented way, while maintaining open and trustworthy communication. People who enjoy building, improving and taking shared responsibility will feel at home at IJM.

We are a global community that cares for one another. We believe that the way we work is as important as the results we achieve. We provide professional excellence with joy and celebration to all those we serve.

About the role

This position can be based in UK, Netherlands or Kenya, where IJM has established offices.  The role reports to the Vice President, Africa & Europe Programs. 

The Program Design Manager leads the design, development and implementation of strategic, human-centered solutions that enhance organizational effectiveness and impact. This role evaluates and oversees the creation of innovative tools, products, and interventions that support Africa/Europe programs in delivering scalable, evidence-based programs.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the design, measurement, learning and scaling of program interventions across Africa and Europe.

• Work closely with program teams and implementing partners to develop interventions that meet local needs and support strategic goals.

• Apply human-centred design approaches to program development, innovation and stakeholder engagement.

• Lead design projects and innovation initiatives, and support learning and capacity building across the region.

• Facilitate workshops, training sessions and communication activities that encourage the adoption of new tools and approaches.

• Use data, evidence and stakeholder feedback to continuously improve programs and interventions.

• Collaborate with technical experts across IJM and external partners to strengthen program design.

• Contribute to the development of regional and global best practices for program interventions.

Depending on regional priorities, you may also contribute to MERL activities, partnership development, regional planning and reporting, fundraising efforts and the start-up of new projects.

You are the person we are looking for if you:

• Have experience in program design, human-centered design or MERL.

• Can turn complex challenges into practical and scalable solutions.

• Enjoy bringing people together to design and improve programs.

• Communicate clearly and can engage a wide range of stakeholders.

• Have experience working in international development contexts.

• Bring knowledge of justice systems, human trafficking, child protection or gender-based violence.

• Combine strategic thinking with a practical and collaborative approach.

• Enjoy coaching, facilitating and supporting others to grow.

What we offer

• A meaningful role contributing to IJM's mission.

• A competitive salary and benefits package.

• A diverse and international working environment.

• Opportunities for professional development and growth.

• Daily, quarterly and annual community spiritual formation opportunities.

• Flexible remote working arrangements, depending on location and role requirements.

IJM holds strict safeguarding principles and a zero tolerance to violations of the Safeguarding Policy, Protection against Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment Policy, and Code of Ethics. Candidate selection is based on technical competence, recruitment, selection and hiring criteria subject to assessing the candidate’s value congruence and thorough background, police clearance, and reference check processes.