PROGRAM MANAGER, Global Development Policy Center

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 6 days ago
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center (GDP Center) seeks a Program Manager with a strong background in international development and program management, complemented by demonstrated leadership skills, people management experience, and expertise in stakeholder engagement and outreach to support its Global Economic Governance Initiative (GEGI). As a key member of the team, the Program Manager will oversee and manage the full lifecycle of GEGI projects, leveraging advanced project management skills to provide strategic direction, streamline processes, and ensure on-time delivery of projects, within scope and to the highest standard of quality. This includes working closely with Center leadership, the GEGI research team, and the GDP Centers communications staff to drive projects to completion and guide the production of research outputs such as reports, policy briefs, and working papers, as well as coordinating meetings, workshops, and events for external stakeholders and public audiences to amplify the reach and impact of GEGIs work. GEGI was founded in 2008 to advance policy-relevant research on international financial, trade, and development institutions that play a leading role in global economic governance. Within GEGI, research is conducted across three thematic programs: development finance, financial stability, and trade and investment rules. GEGI also focuses on emerging and cross-cutting challenges such as just transitions, the sovereign debt crisis, and climate change.Required SkillsResponsibilities Project Management & Administration Lead the full cycle of GEGI projects in close collaboration with GEGI researchers and Center leadership, demonstrating advanced knowledge of project management principles and demonstrated abilities in the following areas: * Defining and Managing Project Scope Be able to clearly outline project objectives, deliverables, and boundaries while ensuring changes are effectively evaluated and managed throughout the lifecycle.
  • Planning and Organizing Tasks Break down projects into actionable tasks, build detailed schedules, allocate resources strategically, and establish clear communication plans to guide execution.
  • Leading and Motivating the Project Team Build and lead cohesive teams by delegating tasks effectively, providing guidance and support, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing work environment.
  • Monitoring Progress and Managing Risks Track performance against project plans, identify and assess risks early, implement mitigation strategies, and take corrective actions to prevent delays or setbacks.
  • Ensuring Project Success Meet stakeholder expectations by delivering projects on time, within budget, and at the highest standard of quality to achieve desired outcomes and impact. Reporting and Documentation Draft comprehensive grant progress reports. Prepare project updates and presentations tailored for both internal and external audiences, demonstrating advanced writing, synthesis, and communication skills. Maintain meticulous and organized project documentation to ensure transparency and continuity. Uphold rigorous compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards, reinforcing accountability and credibility across all reporting activities. GEGI Fellows, Non-Resident Fellows, Core Faculty Program Coordinate and manage the administrative aspects of GEGIs Fellows Program, including non-resident fellows and the visiting researchers program. Demonstrate expertise in recruiting fellows, managing the application and selection process, and handling program logistics. Facilitate mentorship and training opportunities that enhance fellows academic and professional development, ensuring an impactful and supportive program experience. Lead program evaluation and reporting activities, applying sound judgment and creativity to address complex administrative challenges. To advance GEGIs broader research agenda, explore opportunities for strategic collaboration with visiting researchers and non-resident fellows, and serve as the liaison for core faculty working on GEGI research projects.
Required ExperienceQualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in public policy, economics, political science, political economy or related disciplines with a strong background in global development or international organizations. Master's degree strongly preferred.
  • 5-8 years of experience in managing projects or programs.
  • Well-versed in ongoing policy discussions and debates on global economic governance. This is a hybrid position. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume. Boston University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and life insurance; retirement savings plans with matching contributions; generous paid time off and holidays; tuition remission for employees and eligible family members; wellness programs; transportation and commuting benefits; access to backup childcare and an on-site children's center; and statutory benefits such as Workers Compensation and Social Security contributions.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.Responsibilities Project Management & Administration Lead the full cycle of GEGI projects in close collaboration with GEGI researchers and Center leadership, demonstrating advanced knowledge of project management principles and demonstrated abilities in the following areas: * Defining and Managing Project Scope Be able to clearly outline project objectives, deliverables, and boundaries while ensuring changes are effectively evaluated and managed throughout the lifecycle.
  • Planning and Organizing Tasks Break down projects into actionable tasks, build detailed schedules, allocate resources strategically, and establish clear communication plans to guide execution.
  • Leading and Motivating the Project Team Build and lead cohesive teams by delegating tasks effectively, providing guidance and support, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing work environment.
  • Monitoring Progress and Managing Risks Track performance against project plans, identify and assess risks early, implement mitigation strategies, and take corrective actions to prevent delays or setbacks.
  • Ensuring Project Success Meet stakeholder expectations by delivering projects on time, within budget, and at the highest standard of quality to achieve desired outcomes and impact. Reporting and Documentation Draft comprehensive grant progress reports. Prepare project updates and presentations tailored for both internal and external audiences, demonstrating advanced writing, synthesis, and communication skills. Maintain meticulous and organized project documentation to ensure transparency and continuity. Uphold rigorous compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards, reinforcing accountability and credibility across all reporting activities. GEGI Fellows, Non-Resident Fellows, Core Faculty Program Coordinate and manage the administrative aspects of GEGIs Fellows Program, including non-resident fellows and the visiting researchers program. Demonstrate expertise in recruiting fellows, managing the application and selection process, and handling program logistics. Facilitate mentorship and training opportunities that enhance fellows academic and professional development, ensuring an impactful and supportive program experience. Lead program evaluation and reporting activities, applying sound judgment and creativity to address complex administrative challenges. To advance GEGIs broader research agenda, explore opportunities for strategic collaboration with visiting researchers and non-resident fellows, and serve as the liaison for core faculty working on GEGI research projects.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in public policy, economics, political science, political economy or related disciplines with a strong background in global development or international organizations. Master's degree strongly preferred.
  • 5-8 years of experience in managing projects or programs.
  • Well-versed in ongoing policy discussions and debates on global economic governance. This is a hybrid position. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume. Boston University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and life insurance; retirement savings plans with matching contributions; generous paid time off and holidays; tuition remission for employees and eligible family members; wellness programs; transportation and commuting benefits; access to backup childcare and an on-site children's center; and statutory benefits such as Workers Compensation and Social Security contributions.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

Boston University