Jobs at MacArthur Foundation: Impactful Opportunities

Program Officer at MacArthur Foundation

MacArthur is one of the nation’s largest independent foundations. Many professionals seeking meaningful work explore jobs at MacArthur Foundation due to its impact. Organizations supported by the Foundation work in about 50 countries. In addition to Chicago, MacArthur has offices in India, Mexico, and Nigeria.

Job ID: REQ-000341
Location: Nigeria

Description

The MacArthur Foundation’s Nigeria Office is finalizing a new five-year strategy that will begin implementation in 2026.
A centerpiece of this new work will be the intersection of technology and society, including a focus on artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Additionally, we are seeking a Program Officer to lead the grantmaking in these new areas of work.
The Program Officer will apply their expertise in partnership with the Nigeria and Chicago offices to develop and implement grantmaking strategies. They will also manage a portfolio of grants.
We are looking for a person with the skills to translate complex technology issues into a clear research and policy agenda.
The Program Officer must be comfortable working with governments, civil society, research, and policy institutions at the national, continental, and global levels.
This role is time-limited for an initial period of 5 years. However, there is the possibility of an extension.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Participate in the design, implementation, refinement, and adaptation of grantmaking strategies. Also, participate in planning future program strategies.
Identify prospective grant recipients and work with prospective grantees to develop proposals that advance grantmaking strategies.
Review and evaluate proposals and grantees’ work.
Conduct background research and due diligence, prepare grant recommendations for administrative and Board consideration, and respond to unsuccessful proposals.
Monitor the performance of grants and the implementation of grant strategies.
Manage a caseload of active grants, review periodic reports, and maintain accurate records and constructive contact with grantees.
Co-organize meetings of prospective grantees, grantees, program advisors, and others in relevant fields.
Keep abreast of current events, developments, and issues in the field to maintain a balanced and objective perspective. This approach supports grantmaking.
Write extensively for internal purposes.
Conduct research projects and monitor the performance of research grants.
Build and sustain relationships with colleagues across the Foundation, and with leaders, actors and organizations in relevant fields, including the public and commercial sectors.
Represent the Foundation at conferences and other public events, including as a speaker, panel participant, or event moderator. Working in Jobs at MacArthur Foundation provides a unique opportunity to contribute to global impact.
Other Duties And Responsibilities:

Serve on internal Foundation committees as appropriate.
Gain proficiency in and manage an active portfolio of grants in the Foundation’s grants management system.
Provide intellectual leadership in the grant-making field.
Travel domestically and, occasionally, internationally, in connection with Foundation duties.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Graduate training and at least 8 years’ experience working as a policy professional, researcher or practitioner focused on technology and society related issues, including AI and other emerging technologies. In addition, previous grantmaking or grant seeking experience is desirable.
Solid grounding in the history and trends in technology and society related work. You need a strong grasp of relevant empirical research and theoretical literature. It is also important to have a good understanding of the substance and dynamics of relevant public policies.
Ability to make effective connections among research, policy and practice and to work productively with government, civil society organizations, community-based organizations, and academic institutions, and working knowledge of relevant government policies and programs.
Excellent analytical and communications skills, including writing and public speaking.
Experience in strategic communications and project management.
Self-confident, collegial, and diplomatic, with an appreciation of the role of a grantmaking institution.
Computer literate, with a high level of comfort with new applications.
Other essential skills include effectiveness in interpersonal relations with a proven ability to work as part of a team. You should be able to organize and convey problems and issues clearly and succinctly. Show ease with and openness to people who hold diverse views. Finally, bring a talent for managing multiple tasks.

The position is hybrid and based in Abuja, Nigeria.
Annual salary for this role will start at $62,000 USD. Additionally, jobs at MacArthur Foundation are often highly sought after for their competitive compensation.

Link: https://macfound.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/MAC_FOUND_EXT_CAREERS/job/Nigeria-Office/Program-Officer–Nigeria-Office_REQ-000341?utm
To sum up, Jobs at MacArthur Foundation present a valuable opportunity for professionals interested in making a difference.