Program Manager (Research)

TL;DR

Program Manager, Research (NGO/Research): Leading the end-to-end implementation of research and learning agendas in the field with an accent on operationalizing complex study designs and ensuring high-quality data collection. Focus on managing field teams, coordinating with academic partners, and translating research findings into actionable insights for poverty alleviation programs.

Location: Must be based in Zomba, Malawi

Company

hirify.global is a non-profit organization that delivers cash transfers directly to people living in poverty, recognized as one of the most influential companies in the sector.

What you will do

• Build and maintain field protocols to execute the research agenda.
• Oversee data collection activities and ensure alignment with quality and ethical standards.
• Manage survey programming and testing using tools like SurveyCTO and CommCare.
• Implement data quality checks and develop protocols for sample validation.
• Analyze data streams to inform internal decision-making and draft research reports.
• Manage the field team, including recruitment, onboarding, and performance supervision.

Requirements

• 5–7 years of experience in research program management within an NGO, academic, or development context.
• Degree in Economics, Social Sciences, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Proven experience in study design, partner coordination, and IRB/ethics compliance.
• Familiarity with data collection (SurveyCTO, CommCare) and analysis tools (Stata, R, Python).
• Strong people management skills with a track record of building high-performing teams.
• Exceptional communication skills for translating complex findings to diverse audiences.

Culture & Benefits

• Candid, analytical, and non-hierarchical work culture.
• Commitment to evidence-based approaches and professional growth.
• Opportunity to work on high-impact, scalable poverty alleviation projects.
• Strong emphasis on safeguarding and ethical research practices.