We are seeking a seasoned Operations & Program Management Leader to drive large-scale education and social impact initiatives across India. The role involves leading multi-state program units (PMUs), strengthening government partnerships (including IAS-level engagement), managing NGO partners, and enabling high-quality implementation across diverse geographies.

This position requires an exceptional people leader who can manage remote teams, resolve conflicts, ensure accountability, build government relationships, and deliver measurable impact at scale.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Program & Operations Leadership:

- Oversee end-to-end program operations across multiple states and diverse education & early childhood initiatives.

- Manage two state-level PMUs (Delhi & Punjab) and ensure performance against state MoUs, KPIs, and timelines.

- Design and standardize operating processes, monitoring frameworks, and reporting systems for scalable program delivery.

2. People Management & Team Leadership:

- Lead a remote, pan-India team including 5 Program Managers and extended field teams.

- Oversee performance management, KRAs/KPIs, conflict resolution, mentorship, and capability building.

- Foster a collaborative, high-accountability culture aligned with mission and outcomes.

3. Government & Stakeholder Engagement:

- Build and manage relationships with senior bureaucrats (IAS, State Directors, Department Heads), CSR stakeholders, district officials, and development partners.

- Influence decision-making, ensure alignment with government priorities, and support co-creation of scalable models.

4. Partner Management:

- Manage NGO partners, technical/knowledge partners, and implementation agencies across multiple geographies.

- Ensure adherence to program guidelines, budgets, and reporting requirements.

- Strengthen communication and collaboration across all internal and external partners.

5. Monitoring, Reporting & Insights:

- Own program dashboards, progress reports, KPIs, and deliverables for all states.

- Work with tech & MIS teams to build a dedicated tech vertical and improve real-time data visibility.

- Escalate risks, drive corrective actions, and ensure governance compliance.

6. Strategic Planning & Growth:

- Support proposal development, fund disbursal processes, and annual/quarterly planning cycles.

- Contribute to long-term strategy, innovation pilots, and cross-state learning.

- Lead field visits, partner reviews, and Vibha-style flagship convenings to showcase impact.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

Must-Have Experience:

- 7-10+ years in Operations, Program Management, or Leadership roles in the development/social sector

- Managed large remote teams, multi-location projects, and conflict management scenarios

- Strong experience in government relationship management, incl. IAS-level engagement

- Proven ability to manage NGO partnerships, PMUs, and multi-stakeholder ecosystems

- Experience owning KPIs, building processes, and driving operational excellence

- Track record in education or early childhood programs is highly preferred

Skills & Competencies:

- Strong leadership & people management

- Stakeholder engagement & external communication

- Strategic operational planning

- Analytical & reporting capability

- Ability to manage complexity across geographies

- High adaptability, ownership, and problem-solving mindset