Adaptive Philanthropy Program Lead

PurposePhil Career; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 173,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ford Foundation in New York City is seeking an Adaptive Philanthropy Program Officer to shape and steward a multi‑year grant portfolio. You will partner with the Chief Innovation Officer, manage the full grants lifecycle, and engage field leaders to increase impact across the sector.

Based in a hybrid New York office, you will coordinate with regional, legal, and communications teams while guiding strategic investments and intermediary relationships for lasting field health.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of work experience including 6+ years in philanthropy with multiyear flexible funding, equitable partnerships and global trends.
• Proven ability to develop and implement complex strategies with strong qualitative and quantitative analysis.
• Organized, institution-first leader who thrives in ambiguity and communicates with impact across diverse audiences.
• Collaborative team player who respects differences and shares goals across the foundation.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the CINO to develop Adaptive Philanthropy strategy and drive impact through grants, TA, and convenings.
• Manage full grants portfolio lifecycle from planning to site visits and reviews.
• Support grantees with guidance, risk assessment, and network access.
• Lead convenings, monitor progress, ensure compliance, and report impact to leadership.
• Engage with funders and field leaders to share practices and advance joint priorities.
• Coordinate intermediary relationships and steward strategic investments and sustainability.
• Advise leadership on sector developments and Ford's role; align across programs and operations.

Skills

Strategic planning

Data analysis

Cross-stakeholder communication

Leadership

Ambiguity navigation

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Job description

The Ford Foundation in New York City is seeking an Adaptive Philanthropy Program Officer to shape and steward a multi‑year grant portfolio. You will partner with the Chief Innovation Officer, manage the full grants lifecycle, and engage field leaders to increase impact across the sector.

Based in a hybrid New York office, you will coordinate with regional, legal, and communications teams while guiding strategic investments and intermediary relationships for lasting field health.