host: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
duration: Full time
apply-url: https://gatesfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/Gates/job/Abuja-Nigeria/Senior-Program-Officer---Agriculture-Policy--Advocacy---Strategic-Communications_B021628-1
The Gates Foundation, a nonprofit fighting poverty and inequity, is hiring a Senior Program Officer to lead issue communications and advocacy efforts in Nigeria. This role, based in Abuja, will focus on agricultural development, public policy, and advocacy, with the goal of driving lasting agricultural transformation. The officer will work with a team to achieve policy and finance goals, developing and coordinating advocacy and communications strategies.
Overview
The Senior Program Officer will work at the intersection of policy, political economy, programmatic communications, and systems change, leading issue communications, policy advocacy, and strategic communications.
- Develop and coordinate the execution of advocacy and communications strategies
- Lead issue-specific communications in service of advocacy goals
- Develop policy recommendations or proposals in partnership with programmatic and regional offices
- Position agriculture as a driver of economic opportunity, food and nutrition security, job creation, women's economic empowerment, climate resilience, and inclusive growth
- Support the foundation's big bets and respond to leadership expectations for sharper policy influence, stronger partner ecosystems, and clearer evidence-based narratives for agricultural transformation
Eligibility
The ideal candidate will have deep experience operating at the intersection of policy, political economy, programmatic communications, and systems change.
- Must be able to legally work in Nigeria without visa sponsorship
- Strong political judgment and experience working through locally led advocacy networks
- Grantmaking expertise and ability to navigate contested information environments
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums
- Generous paid time off and paid family leave
- Foundation-paid retirement contribution and opportunities to engage in employee communities
How to Apply
To apply, candidates must submit their application through the provided link.
- Review the job description and requirements carefully
- Prepare a resume and cover letter tailored to the position
- Submit application through the website by the deadline of 7th July, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the Senior Program Officer role?
The primary focus of the Senior Program Officer role is to lead issue communications, policy advocacy, and strategic communications that translate the foundation's agricultural development strategy into actionable influence, strengthened partner capacity, and narrative change in Nigeria.
What are the key qualifications for the role?
The ideal candidate will have deep experience operating at the intersection of policy, political economy, programmatic communications, and systems change, with strong political judgment and experience working through locally led advocacy networks.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 7th July, 2026.
What benefits does the foundation offer to employees?
The foundation offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off and paid family leave, foundation-paid retirement contribution, and opportunities to engage in employee communities.
Can international candidates apply for the role?
Candidates must be able to legally work in Nigeria without visa sponsorship to be eligible for the role.
What is the location of the role?
The role is based in Abuja, Nigeria.