Program Manager - Policy Research

Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI); Waterloo; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading think tank in Waterloo seeks a Program Manager to oversee research programs and improve management processes. The role involves collaboration with research teams, budget management, and engagement with external partners. Candidates should have a degree in Political Science or International Affairs and experience in program management.

Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years experience managing programs and budgets.
• Interest in public policy and governance of transformative technologies.

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate research programs and program management tools.
• Prepare proposals, funding applications, and donor reporting.
• Monitor and evaluate activities, preparing progress reports.

Skills

Organization

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Strategic Thinking

Budget Management

Education

University degree in Political Science

University degree in International Affairs

Tools

Project Management Software

Job description

The Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) is an independent, non-partisan think tank whose peer-reviewed research, foresight and trusted analysis influence policy makers to innovate. With the engagement of a global network of experts and contributors, CIGI tackles the governance challenges and opportunities of data and transformative technologies, including AI, and their impact on the economy, security, democracy and, ultimately, societies. CIGI delivers independent world-leading research and analysis to influence policy on cutting-edge issues that intersect transformative technologies and governance.

POSITION SUMMARY

As part of the Program Management team, the Program Manager is involved in the management and coordination of CIGI’s research programs and the continual improvement of CIGI’s program management tools and processes.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Work closely with Research Directors and program leads on program design, development, and execution, ensuring timelines and milestones are met, including:

• Support research program design, including use of a theory of change model.
• Liaise with partners, fellows, and internal teams to manage the execution of program activities.
• Prepare proposals, funding applications, and donor reporting.
• Prepare program charters and planning documents including work-back schedules.
• Schedule key activities, consultations, and other steps necessary for program success.
• Develop, manage, and monitor budgets in close coordination with the Finance Department.
• Administer program management agreements including contracts, invoicing, and other sensitive information.
• Support active engagement of CIGI with external partners for each program, including directly engaging partners and supporting CIGI in a coordinated and strategic manner.
• Coordinate with CIGI’s Public Affairs teams to organize the program’s outreach activities, events, media strategy, public advocacy, and timely delivery of high-quality publications.
• Monitor and evaluate activities, including tracking key metrics, preparing status updates and progress reports.
• Conduct program closure activities and document lessons learned.
• Work to develop, refine, and maintain CIGI’s program management tools and processes.
• Manage working relationships with CIGI Fellows and contributors, including contract management.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• University degree in Political Science, International Affairs, or related field.
• 3 to 5 years experience managing programs, daily operations, contracts, and budgets in government, not-for-profit, or academic settings.
• Interest in public policy and governance of transformative technologies and a demonstrated ability to quickly and effectively absorb complex issues.
• Literacy and/or professional experience in national security and technology will be considered and asset.
• Ability to develop and execute a strategic approach to building relationships and managing large grant activities, deliverables, and resources.
• Strong organization, coordination, and administration skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Demonstrated ability to take direction, lead team activities, and work collaboratively and independently.
• Ability to prepare and analyze financial documents, including program spreadsheets, budgets, and reports.
• Experience and awareness of global research and Think Tank communities, as well as research granting sources is considered an asset.
• Discretion and ability to work with secure confidential materials.
• Familiarity with program or project management software.

Note: This position is based at our CIGI Campus in Waterloo, Ontario, where employees have ahybridwork environment which requires them to be in theofficea minimum of 2 days per week.

Interested applicants are invited to submit a resume, cover letter and salary expectations [e-mail] 2 nd , 2025. Incomplete applications may not be considered. We appreciate all candidates’ applications but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

CIGI is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable and accessible environment. Our goal is to attract and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities. We are committed to providing accommodation to applicants throughout the recruitment and hiring process.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Project Management and Information Technology

• Industries

  Research Services

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