Program Officer at MacArthur Foundation - NGO Job
Program Officer at MacArthur Foundation (Nigeria Office)
The MacArthur Foundation is one of the largest independent philanthropic foundations globally, supporting organizations working across approximately 50 countries. With headquarters in Chicago and offices in India, Mexico, and Nigeria, the Foundation funds initiatives that promote innovation, equity, and sustainable development worldwide.
As part of its upcoming five-year strategic plan beginning in 2026, the MacArthur Foundation Nigeria Office is expanding its work at the intersection of technology and society, including artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. The organization is seeking a qualified professional to join its team as a Program Officer.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape grantmaking strategies, influence policy discussions, and collaborate with global stakeholders working on technology governance and societal impact initiatives.
Job Overview
- Job Title: Program Officer
- Job ID: REQ-000341
- Organization: MacArthur Foundation
- Location: Nigeria
- Employment Type: Fixed-term (Initial 5 Years, Renewable)
- Application Deadline: 15 March 2026
Role Summary
The Program Officer will lead grantmaking initiatives focused on technology and society, particularly artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Working closely with teams in Nigeria and Chicago, the successful candidate will design and implement grant strategies, manage a portfolio of grants, and translate complex technology issues into actionable research and policy frameworks.
The role requires strong engagement with governments, civil society organizations, research institutions, and global policy stakeholders while ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s strategic priorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the design, implementation, and refinement of grantmaking strategies.
- Identify and engage prospective grant recipients and develop funding proposals.
- Organize meetings and collaborative engagements with grantees and advisors.
- Monitor trends, developments, and emerging issues related to technology and society.
- Conduct research and evaluate grant performance outcomes.
- Prepare internal reports, grant recommendations, and evaluation documents.
- Maintain relationships with partners across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
- Represent the Foundation at conferences, panels, and public engagements.
- Review grant proposals and conduct due diligence processes.
- Manage active grant portfolios and monitor implementation progress.
- Maintain accurate records within the Foundation’s grants management system.
- Provide intellectual leadership within grantmaking initiatives.
- Travel locally and internationally when required.
Qualifications
- Graduate-level training with at least 8 years of professional experience in policy, research, or practice related to technology and society.
- Experience working on artificial intelligence or emerging technology policy is highly desirable.
- Previous grantmaking or grant-seeking experience is an advantage.
- Strong ability to connect research, policy, and practical implementation.
- Excellent analytical, writing, and public speaking skills.
- Experience in strategic communications and project management.
- Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
- High digital literacy and comfort using modern applications.
- Understanding of technology policy trends and governance frameworks.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously within a collaborative environment.
Salary Information
Salary: Not stated by the employer.
Compensation details were not disclosed in the official announcement. Salary and benefits will likely reflect international foundation standards and may be discussed during later recruitment stages.
Career Tips for Applicants
- Demonstrate policy impact: Highlight projects where your research influenced policy or public programs.
- Show interdisciplinary expertise: Technology and society roles require combining policy, research, and governance knowledge.
- Highlight global collaboration: Experience working with international stakeholders strengthens applications.
- Emphasize writing ability: Grantmaking roles require extensive analytical and policy writing.
- Show thought leadership: Publications, conference participation, or advisory roles add strong value.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the official application portal:
Apply Here – Program Officer (MacArthur Foundation)
Applications must be submitted on or before 15 March 2026.
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