Area Manager

Aga Khan Rural Support Programme; Nashik District; On-site; INR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading rural development organization seeks an Area Manager to lead strategic initiatives and operational functions in Nashik District, India. The role involves managing multi-thematic teams, overseeing quality implementation of projects, and representing the organization at various platforms. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in program management and at least 10 years of experience in the development sector, with a commitment to community engagement and diversity.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in the development sector with at least 4 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of financial systems and budgetary processes.
• Willingness to travel extensively and maintain flexibility in work schedules.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic and operational functions in the assigned territory.
• Oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of development projects.
• Manage a multi-thematic team and ensure programmatic integration.

Skills

Programme management

Strategic planning

Communication

Team leadership

Networking

Fluency in English

Fluency in Hindi

Education

Postgraduate in Social Sciences, Rural Development, Management

Job description

Education: Postgraduate in Social Sciences, Rural Development, Management, or related disciplines

Experience: Minimum 10 years of experience in the development sector with at least 4 years in a leadership or state-level role

POSITION SUMMARY: The Area Manager will be responsible for leading the strategic and operational functions of AKRSP(I) in the assigned territory. This leadership role ensures high-quality implementation of development projects aligned with AKRSP(I)’s mission, effective coordination with internal departments and external stakeholders, and representation of the organization at state and national platforms.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

Strong programme management and strategic planning skills with a commitment to quality.

Effective communicator with the ability to engage across diverse stakeholder groups.

Team leadership, multitasking ability, and a field-oriented mindset.

Ability to manage complex programmes and integrate thematic areas for greater impact.

Sound knowledge of financial systems and budgetary processes.

Strong relationship-building and networking skills

Secular and inclusive orientation, with sensitivity to diverse community contexts.

Willingness to travel extensively and maintain flexibility in work schedules.

Proven experience in programme management, government liaison, team leadership, and donor engagement.

Fluency in English and Hindi; knowledge of local languages is an advantage.

Job Profile

Strategic and Programmatic Leadership:

Develop and implement territory-specific strategies aligned with AKRSP(I)’s mission and long-term vision.

Lead a multi-thematic team of professionals across sectors including natural resources, agriculture, livestock, skill development, and enterprise promotion.

Ensure seamless integration of programmes and projects to achieve measurable household-level impact.

Programme Management and Quality Implementation:

Oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of development projects with a strong focus on quality, timelines, and milestones.

Guide teams in strategic work planning, budgeting, implementation, and evaluation.

Support development of systems, frameworks, and indicators for effective programme delivery and learning.

Team Management:

Provide proactive leadership in team management, motivation, and performance monitoring.

Facilitate capacity-building efforts and foster a collaborative, learning-oriented work environment.

Stakeholder Engagement and Representation:

Liaise effectively with government officials, donors, and civil society partners.

Represent AKRSP(I) at state and national platforms to advocate for rural development priorities.

Coordinate donor and high-profile visits to showcase impact and strengthen partnerships.

Financial Oversight and Fundraising:

Ensure effective financial management, including budgeting, tracking expenditures, and timely donor reporting.

Contribute to resource mobilization efforts, including proposal development and donor engagement.

Coordination with Head Office:

Collaborate with departments such as HR, Finance, M&E, Admin, and Safety & Security to ensure alignment and operational efficiency.

Ensure timely submission of reports to donors, government agencies, and AKRSP(I) headquarters.

Please note that we will begin the search immediately, and if a suitable candidate is found, we will close the application process!

We strongly encourage women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and specially abled candidates to apply.