In its 76th year of global leadership in philanthropy, the Ford Foundation seeks a dynamic, creative and innovative individual to serve as its:
Program Officer, Public Service Media in East Africa
Based in Nairobi, the Program Officer will develop and manage a portfolio of grants focused on advancing public service media in East Africa.
The program goals are to foster debate and dialogue, increase awareness
of the media as instrument for exploring social justice issues, and
enhance public access and contributions to targeted campaigns as well as
to assist in the emergence of an independent, journalistic and
storytelling community committed to social justice content.
The initiative promotes the public media sphere as a platform to give
voice and visibility to the marginalized, and to add diverse
perspectives to everyday struggles for social change.
A principal focus of grant making is to encourage the development of
content furthering the goals and work of Ford’s broader East Africa
field office strategy which focuses on “Fulfilling the Promise of
Democracy”.
The Program Officer will review existing lines of work; formulate,
implement and monitor grant making strategies; maintain relations and
consult with leaders in civil society, the media, research institutes,
governments and other funders; and promote coordination and learning
among key stakeholders.
Criteria for Success:
Ideal candidates will have substantive knowledge of the media field in
East Africa and its potential to drive social change at scale;
significant professional experience working to advance
development/social change through diverse platforms in the media, public
or NGO sectors; understanding of the role, power and likely impact of
digital innovation and social media in the emerging new media landscape.
Ideal candidates will also possess vision; capacity to conceptualize
program ideas/strategies and translate them into practice; and
demonstrated creativity, analytical and organizational skills.
Also required are an advanced degree in journalism, media, development,
the social sciences or public policy; excellent written/oral
communications skills; and strong interpersonal skills including the
ability to work with those with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
For more information and to apply: Please visit our website at: