The Position
The Specialist – Program Governance oversees the seamless coordination, documentation, and execution of YE FFA’s technical governance framework, encompassing the Program Steering Group (PSG), Strategic Advisory Group (SAG), and Coordination & Collaboration Committee (CCC). This position ensures rigorous oversight and efficient logistical management of governance procedures, fostering alignment between strategic decisions, operational execution, and institutional accountability across AGRA’s 10 YE FFA countries.
The successful candidate will act as the central governance framework for the YE FFA Portfolio Management Hub (PMH), guaranteeing that decision-making processes are thoroughly documented, action items are systematically monitored, and feedback mechanisms between oversight and execution teams operate seamlessly. Responsibilities include managing governance calendars, facilitating executive-level meetings, drafting briefing materials, and overseeing the execution of approved resolutions. This position is pivotal in enhancing AGRA’s credibility and alignment with the Mastercard Foundation and other key partners by ensuring all governance interactions are delivered punctually, with full transparency and a focus on measurable outcomes.
Key Responsibilities and Obligations:
Oversee and execute daily operations to ensure alignment with organizational objectives, maintaining a focus on efficiency, productivity, and adherence to established protocols. Manage and coordinate cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and communication to achieve departmental and company-wide goals. Develop, implement, and monitor strategic initiatives to drive performance improvements and operational excellence. Prepare and present detailed reports on key performance indicators, progress, and challenges to senior leadership, facilitating data-driven decision-making. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and quality standards through rigorous audits and proactive risk mitigation strategies. Lead continuous improvement efforts by identifying inefficiencies, proposing innovative solutions, and optimizing resource allocation.
Governance Coordination and Documentation involves overseeing the development, implementation, and maintenance of governance frameworks, policies, and procedures. This role ensures alignment with regulatory requirements and organizational objectives while facilitating effective communication among stakeholders. Responsibilities include drafting and updating governance documents, managing record-keeping systems, and providing guidance to teams on compliance matters. The position demands strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to interpret complex regulatory frameworks.
Offer executive-level coordination assistance to the governance bodies and affiliated boards and committees of YE FFA.
Plan, oversee, and administer governance calendars, ensuring seamless scheduling, logistical arrangements, and meeting coordination for PSG, SAG, and CCC.
Create and distribute agendas, briefing documents, and preparatory materials prior to meetings.
Document, consolidate, and distribute minutes, action items, and follow-up tracking tools to ensure clear accountability and progress tracking.
Collaborate with the Director of Gender, Youth, and Inclusiveness to guarantee that governance decisions comply with organizational policies, donor specifications, and applicable regulatory standards.
Tracks decisions to ensure alignment across the organization, documenting outcomes and follow-up actions to maintain accountability and execution. Facilitates communication of decisions to relevant stakeholders, ensuring clarity on responsibilities and timelines. Monitors progress on decision implementation, identifying gaps and proposing corrective measures when necessary. Collaborates with leadership to refine decision-making processes, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. Requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively across teams.
Maintain a centralized log to document governance decisions and ensure systematic follow-through on action items until their completion.
Oversee the advancement of resolutions and recommendations to guarantee strategic and operational coherence.
Analyze workflow constraints, flag potential risks, and facilitate prompt solutions in collaboration with key leadership stakeholders.
Prepare and deliver regular governance performance updates and insights, including monthly reports, for senior leadership.
Ensure that governance records are systematically archived within AGRA’s knowledge repository.
We facilitate collaboration and communication among stakeholders to ensure alignment and seamless project execution. This role involves managing relationships with diverse partners, including internal teams, external vendors, and regulatory bodies, to foster mutual understanding and support. Responsibilities include coordinating efforts, addressing concerns, and maintaining transparent channels of communication to mitigate risks and enhance operational efficiency. Key requirements include strong interpersonal skills, the ability to negotiate effectively, and a proactive approach to resolving conflicts while ensuring compliance with organizational and industry standards.
Act as the primary liaison among governance stakeholders, comprising PSG, SAG, CCC, AGRA leadership, and external collaborators.
Ensure seamless stakeholder engagement and clear communication before and after governance meetings to maintain alignment and transparency.
Coordinate inputs from various functions to governance forums, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities.
Facilitate governance-focused gatherings, including educational sessions, executive assessments, and collaborative partner discussions.
You are responsible for ensuring all governance communications adhere to established brand guidelines and regulatory compliance requirements.
We are seeking a seasoned professional to oversee and enhance our governance systems and reporting frameworks. The ideal candidate will ensure compliance with regulatory standards, maintain accurate and transparent records, and streamline reporting processes to support informed decision-making. Responsibilities include designing and implementing governance policies, monitoring system performance, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align practices with organizational objectives. Requirements encompass a minimum of five years of experience in governance, risk management, or a related field, proficiency in relevant compliance tools, and strong analytical and communication skills. The role demands meticulous attention to detail, the ability to interpret complex regulatory requirements, and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability.
Design and uphold governance frameworks, incorporating tracking mechanisms, interactive dashboards, standardized templates, and structured reporting systems.
Enhancing governance structures, strengthening risk management protocols, and reinforcing accountability frameworks are central to this role.
Prepare comprehensive governance reports and concise briefing notes for senior management and external partners, ensuring timely delivery to support informed decision-making processes.
Coordinate critical governance events, including the Annual YE FFA Learning Summit and portfolio reviews.
Key Attributes and Professional Background Sought:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as engineering, business administration, or a related discipline, is required. Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a comparable role, with a proven track record of delivering results in [specific industry/field]. Proficiency in [specific software/tools] and a strong understanding of [relevant regulations/standards] are essential. Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are also mandatory. Prior leadership or project management experience is highly advantageous.
A relevant four-year degree in Public Administration, International Development, Project Management, Political Science, or a comparable discipline is required.
Obtaining a certification in Project Management (PMP) or Governance and Compliance would be beneficial.
A minimum of a decade of professional experience in program governance, coordination, or administration, specifically within international development organizations or donor-funded initiatives, is required.
Proven track record in overseeing governance frameworks that involve multiple stakeholders, including program steering committees and advisory boards.
Demonstrates a consistent track record of meticulously documenting decisions, ensuring precise record-keeping, and upholding regulatory adherence in intricate operational settings.
Professional experience with donor-funded organizations, including the Mastercard Foundation, the World Bank, or other bilateral agencies, is required.
Exceptional coordination, communication, and organizational abilities are required, along with the capacity to manage multiple priorities concurrently.
Demonstrates advanced expertise in utilizing Microsoft Office Suite applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, alongside strong capabilities in digital collaboration tools such as Teams and SharePoint.
Possess a comprehensive grasp of governance frameworks, decision-making methodologies, and the systematic monitoring of policy implementation.
Proficient in orchestrating, coordinating, and overseeing collaborative initiatives across diverse functional teams.
Candidates should exhibit exceptional proficiency in writing, synthesizing information, and communicating ideas effectively, particularly for the preparation of high-level reports and briefs.
Proficient in developing frameworks to monitor advancement and preserve organizational knowledge.
Proven experience in applying governance frameworks to agricultural initiatives and youth employment programs across Africa.
If you believe you meet the qualifications for this role, kindly submit your application along with a comprehensive CV that includes your email address and telephone contact details via email to recruit@agra.org. Ensure the subject line of your application email includes the job reference number SPG/GYM/05/2026.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
10 years
