BACKGROUND

The National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM) is a statutory corporation established under the National Youth Council of Malawi Act (Act No. 22 of 1996). Its core mandate includes developing, promoting, and coordinating youth programs and activities, registering youth organizations, facilitating scholarships, establishing cooperation mechanisms among stakeholders, and promoting youth capacity development initiatives.

NYCOM envisions a Malawi where young people fully realize their potential and actively contribute to sustainable national development. As an implementing arm of the Ministry of Youth, the Council operates through the General Assembly, Board of Directors, Secretariat, and affiliated youth organizations. The Council works collaboratively with government, civil society, development partners, and youth-led organizations to empower young people and advocate for inclusive policies and meaningful youth participation in national development processes.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Council is seeking to recruit a highly motivated, strategic, and results-driven Programs Manager to lead the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of youth development programs. The Programs Manager will provide overall leadership in program development and ensure alignment with national priorities and organizational strategic objectives.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of youth programs and projects
• Develop annual and long-term program plans in line with the Council’s strategic plan
• Coordinate program activities and ensure effective delivery within timelines and budgets
• Monitor and evaluate program performance and impact, and prepare periodic reports
• Strengthen partnerships with government agencies, development partners, and youth organizations
• Mobilize resources for program implementation, including proposal development and donor engagement
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and donor requirements
• Supervise program staff and provide mentorship and performance management
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and promote youth participation in program development
• Represent the Council in relevant national and international forums

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree in development studies, Social Sciences, Project Management, or a related field from a recognized University
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in program management, preferably within youth development or related sectors
• Demonstrated experience in project planning, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting
• Proven track record in resource mobilization and donor engagement
• Strong understanding of youth development policies and frameworks in Malawi
• Membership in a relevant professional body will be an added advantage
• Youth, female applicants, and other marginalized groups are strongly encouraged to apply

REQUIRED ATTRIBUTES AND SKILLS

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent strategic planning and analytical abilities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of integrity and professionalism
• Ability to work independently and under pressure
• Strong report writing and presentation skills
• Ability to build partnerships and networks effectively
• Innovative and results-oriented mindset

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work flexible hours and meet tight deadlines

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of youth programs and projects
• Develop annual and long-term program plans in line with the Council’s strategic plan
• Coordinate program activities and ensure effective delivery within timelines and budgets
• Monitor and evaluate program performance and impact, and prepare periodic reports
• Strengthen partnerships with government agencies, development partners, and youth organizations
• Mobilize resources for program implementation, including proposal development and donor engagement
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and donor requirements
• Supervise program staff and provide mentorship and performance management
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and promote youth participation in program development
• Represent the Council in relevant national and international forums

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent strategic planning and analytical abilities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of integrity and professionalism
• Ability to work independently and under pressure
• Strong report writing and presentation skills
• Ability to build partnerships and networks effectively
• Innovative and results-oriented mindset

• Master’s degree in development studies, Social Sciences, Project Management, or a related field from a recognized University
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in program management, preferably within youth development or related sectors
• Demonstrated experience in project planning, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting
• Proven track record in resource mobilization and donor engagement
• Strong understanding of youth development policies and frameworks in Malawi
• Membership in a relevant professional body will be an added advantage
• Youth, female applicants, and other marginalized groups are strongly encouraged to apply