Project Manager (Governance)

Overview: Supporting the state in prioritising and planning critical ECE-related decisions (allocating budgets, human resource deployment, etc.) Augmenting the capacity of the states academic bodies (SCERT, DIETs) to design sound curricula, teacher guides, student workbooks, learning materials, training and mentoring Support in building the capacity of the State, District and field-level functionaries to set up and run an effective state-wide ECE programme (school identification, learning-friendly environment, educator hiring, supportive supervision, convergence on nutrition and health, etc.) Improving data systems and governance by creating and driving robust mechanisms to ensure data reliability and enhancing governance processes to drive ECE implementation in mission mode Capture learning and best practices from Odisha as a playbook for ECE in India. Key Responsibilities Support the department in day-to-day activities related to the Sishu Vatika program, including budgets, file movement, and monitoring Take ownership of and manage end-to-end critical governance workstreams like program design, implementation, communications, and monitoring. Set up project management processes and guidelines, and ensure that all activities are driving towards the defined goals Develop and manage strong working relationships with government stakeholders. Create internal alignment between different interventions and ECE partners in the state. Work with other teams at CSF on technical work streams such as academics, research, and evaluation and contextualise them for the state. Knowledge management and documentation of the implementation of work in the state. Perform other relevant tasks as deemed necessary by the supervisor. Required Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities Bachelors degree from a reputed university; a Masters degree preferred (in education, development studies, public policy, and social sciences). 2 to 4 years of work experience, preferably in the education sector, demonstrating superb project delivery and stakeholder management. Keen interest in the development/education sector. Fluent in English with excellent reading and writing skills; Good verbal and written skills in Odia are necessary. Past experience working with state and district-level governance and institutional structures is a must. Ability to work independently and as part of a team while taking initiative and responsibility. Knowledge and experience working on project management, large-scale program implementation with multiple delivery tracks, and monitoring, among others.